Use a good quality acrylic latex paint for your topcoat. Plan to apply at least two coats, and even more if the fireplace is used frequently.

When the paint has dried, you may want to follow Laurie's lead and add some cut flowers and a mirror or framed painting to the shelf and some decorative items around the hearth. But wait a few weeks before doing so, as latex paint needs plenty of time to fully cure.

A Weathered Alternative

If you would like to create a rustic, weathered look on your brick fireplace rather than a solid color, here's how to do so. Begin by preparing the brick as described above. Then mix one part of water with two parts of semi-gloss latex paint. Spread a thin coat of the paint on the brick using a paint roller, and then immediately wipe off some of the paint with a sponge or clean rag. Rinse the sponge or rag in clean water before each use. Allow the surface to dry. If the color is too light, repeat the process one more time.