A red brick fireplace creates a feeling of warmth with or without a fire due to the rich, deep hue of the bricks. Contrast the red bricks with colors like periwinkle blue, forest green or wheat to create a country-style look. Add items with a folksy Americana twist to complete the theme.
Alternatively, accent a red brick fireplace with black for a dramatic, modern look. Purchase a wrought iron fireplace guard and tools. Use black pillows on a nearby couch and black throw rugs to tie the theme together.
Whether your fireplace is made from white brick or simply painted white, it lends itself well to a fresh, clean look. Use green bamboo or Kelly green to create a room that mimics the feeling of the great outdoors. Fill the room with potted plants and choose curtains with a delicate floral pattern with green leaves woven throughout.
For a dramatic look, combine red with your white fireplace. An overstuffed couch in crimson or scarlet and red and white striped pillows will tie your look together in a festive way.
Gray brick adds a cool contrast to the intensity of a roaring fire. Paint the walls sunflower yellow or daffodil to add a cheerful touch to a room with a gray brick fireplace. Choose paintings that incorporate the same colors, particularly a large one to hang over the mantle.
If you'd rather, choose a cool color such as mauve or purple to carry out the austerity of gray brick. Create a family coat of arms from purple and gold, and hang it over the fireplace and decorate with vases full of purple flowers.
Tan brick in a room creates an earthy, natural feeling. Decorate in shades of chocolate brown to contrast with the lighter color of the bricks. Choose supple leather armchairs in brown to place in front of the fireplace and an oriental rug that weaves brown and tan together in an intriguing design.
Another option is a color scheme that incorporates rust and orange. These fiery colors will pick up the color of the flames in the fire and create a feeling of unity in your space. Paint the walls a shade of terracotta to make the tan fireplace stand out.