Years ago I lived in a rental apartment with an unappealing bright red brick fireplace; after checking with the landlord (or did I?), I painted it glossy white. Here's a roundup of similar DIY white fireplaces.

Above: A bright white hearth in a New York apartment by Ashe & Leandro.

Above: A fireplace spotted on Decor 8.

Above: An apartment in Cobble Hill, via the New York Times.

Above: A house in LA by Alexandra Loew of From the Desk of Lola.

Above: A living room by Ashe + Leandro.

Above: A living room in Texas from Atlantis Home.

Above: A living room in Northern California by de Lisle, Philpotts and Staub Interiors; project managed by Nicole Socia of Socia Design.