Bekah, 

I woulld consult with a professional painting company for more information., however in my experience when encountering brick chimneys which have been painted, I have seen cases where moisture was trapped behind the paint causing the brick to deteriorate and flake off.  Again, a painting company may be able to recommend a specific paint that will be appropriate for this application. Hope this helps!

Eric Consuegra, Arocon Roofing and Construction, LLC

What is the wall construction of the home?

Before making a recommendation about painting, you have to know what the vapor permeance and structure of the wall is.  Improper placement of a vapor retarder can have disatrous implications.

WoW Home Solutions

Bekah,

It is perfectly fine to paint brick.  Here are some things to consider.  You need to clean it fiirst.  I recommend a thorough power wash with a 25 degree tip.  Keep the nozzle back at least six inches while you are doing this.  Then, you need to rub your fingertips across the brick and mortar.  If a lot of particles are dislodged, you need to apply a masonry conditioner.  This will help bind the particles together.  If no particles, or very few, are dislodged, then apply a masonry primer.  Remember to let the surface dry  for at least three days after the powerwash.  You are forcing water throught the brick and it will take a few days for it to dry.  After the primer or conditioner has dried, apply a high quality latex or elastomeric paint.  You will enjoy your work for many years.

One proviso:  Do not paint the brick if it is horizontal like the top of a planter.  That will peel and very quickly.  However, painting on brick on sidewalls is perfectly fine.

Where is the tile, John? If it is on the floor or anywhere near bathroom moisture, painting is probably not the best solution.

John,

I must confess to never having seen that application. 

I am not sure the finish would look good or even hold up over the long term.  I would also be worried about the potential vapor retarder level interplay with what is behind the tile.