I've had a thing for exposed brick for as long as I can remember. I love the hip, chic, uber-cool, rustic feel brick gives a space. It's not formal. It's not severe. I wouldn't say it's youthful or carefree, but it has an artistic, artsy feel to it - reminding me of SoHo lofts and urban homes in the Back Bay. Exposed brick has an un-fussiness to it - It's simple, and often has an unfinished look to it. Collegiate. Bohemian. Creative. Though never Bourgeois. Exposed brick can make a space feel both cool and warm. I've always loved it au naturel or with a layer of whitewash just to soften it a touch. But then recently I've discovered painted brick. Some would say, c'est domage, or quelle horreur - Why bother painting it? Why bother covering it up? Why have it at all then? But I love it. I love the smooth finish of the paint. Don't worry, all the texture is not lost, it's simply been softened a bit... just a tad? What do you think? Take a look? Would you consider painting brick? Or is it too college dormitory for you? Personally I do love the blue wall the most... but I wonder, what would brick look like painted black... in a high gloss... even a lacquer? Could it possibly pull off a sophisticated and elegant look? I might have to try sometime...