What was the technique used for the white wash? Looks great!

This was definitely a two-person job. Don't try it by yourself. It took about two hours but was dry to the touch in a couple of hours. We only did one coat. The finished look was exactly the color I wanted to achieve. The product used was: Sherwin Williams' Loxon® Conditioner. The white wash was completed by two, non-professionals - me and my husband (both in our 60s). So anyone can do this...

First the fireplace was cleaned by using a powerful Shop Vac. Use drop cloths (old sheets will do). Have on hand a lot of torn old towel pieces and by a lot, I mean maybe 25 to 30. Just cut up some old towels (appox. 12 x 12). If you don't have any, get some at Goodwill. Terry cloth works best.

Working in small sections, starting at the top left of the fireplace, my husband used a big brush and started brushing on a heavy amount of product. Immediately I DABBED the paint into the brick. Just dab, dab, dab. Make sure to stop all runs. Work fast because this product adheres quickly. Continue working left to right - when you get to the edge, drop down - then work right to left and so on in sections about two feet x two feet.

That's all there was to it. What a difference it made, as you can see. We added a new mantle and Wa-La! Now I love my "new" family room.
Phyllis

I have the same dilemma without 1980 red brick fireplace only difference are joint lines are an ugly dark grayish black color which makes the dated red brick look even worse....I have to say our FP looks incredible and your instructions were easy to understand...thanks for the tips it sounds like something my husband and I can tackle. Any suggestions for the ugly joint lines....

Great job!!! Ever noticed just HOW MANY posts there are about fixing a 70's house!!!