I had a dreadfully ulgy brick fireplace. I sealed it with primer and then painted it a color called interactive cream, then I diluted a color called smoky topaz (with water) and took a plastic walmart bag, smeared it on and dabbed it a bit, made some areas a little darker, giving it texture and I get tons of compliments on it. It is time consuming, but easy and cheap!

Here is a link that might be useful: Home Improvement