Hello, I'm Tresa and I am moving to an apt with a very ugly old red brick fireplace and was searching for a solution other than painting that I could actually use and not be in trouble with the landlord. Any suggestions?

Is this a real brick fireplace or a wall structure that is made to look like a real brick fireplace? Also, what is it that you find unattractive about it, please?

You must get the landlords approval for anything that will change the interior of his property. Have you asked/talkied to him about fixing up the fireplace?

Painting is really easy if the landlord will allow but if he will not, and you will never use the fireplace - get a trifold screen. You could find a fabric one, one in an antique store, or just hindge three pieces of wood together and paint it. This way you can make it a size, color and style you want. Put a couple taller plants on either side.

Is this a real brick fireplace or a wall structure that is made to look like a real brick fireplace? Also, what is it that you find unattractive about it, please?

The color tones in the brick and the mortar have heavy grey/steal tones giving the brick fireplace a cold feel. I am looking for the appeal of having ripped down an old wall and uncovering brick. Somewhat weathered.

This is a real brick fireplace. Raised hearth and a beautiful large arched opening.

Purchase exterior plaster and smear it here and there so that as much of the actual brick is covered. Paint the whole thing a "grout" color, then take a natural sea sponge and paint the surfaces of the exposed brick the color you want. Use a couple accent colors to give the brick a realistic look. Use real brick in the color scheme you want as the inspiration.