So, I did the flooring, and I experimented with my bricks idea.  (I know, I know, I'm an art rock star, people ask for my autograph and swoon at my feet regularly.)

I used some textured paper/paint samples that I got from a home improvement store, peeled off bits of that terrible green wallpaper, and cut bricks. 

A closer view:

Why visible bricks?  Well, the going theory is that Edgar Allan Poe was up to some Cask of Amontillado tomfoolery.  Don't worry, everyone in the house is present and accounted for.