- Changing from your existing masonry fireplace to the linear gas fireplace in the photo you posted a link to would likely be fairly expensive, as it would require removing/modifying the masonry of your existing fireplace, but there are other approaches you might consider. One of the keys to modern is minimalism. You might try keeping the appearance as uncluttered as possible - perhaps by removing an existing mantel or stripping away other elements to leave only the most essential parts. If it is a wood burning fireplace, the building code requires that you leave non-combustible hearth protection in front of the fireplace, but you might be able to change the hearth material to make it more modern (pink wall with hearth flush on floor). The other thing you might consider is changing over to a modern gas burner, with glass media or stones (first photo, with black mantel). There are gas inserts that are beautiful as well last photo with stone wall), but the investment goes up when you get into a full system with firebox, surround, venting etc. If you have a photo of your current situation, we might be able to tailor our suggestions to be more helpful.

So much can happen on an exterior...trim, exposed rafters, doors, windows, siding, stone, brick, stucco, roofing, gutters and downspouts....hire an architect or a design/build firm to help answer these questions prior to building....like hiring an interior designer for help with furniture, these professionals will help decide the style of the exterior of the house and how that style interacts with the function of the house.

Hi Rahul Satija To answer your question, regarding which material to use for the outsides of your home Terracotta Brick - unless you have used bricks that are meant to be left exposed, ordinary bricks will take in a lot of water and leave the walls damp, and hence not a great idea. You could ofcourse cover it with a veneer of brick cladding but that is something we would not propose. Between wooden cladding and paint, it frankly depends completely on your budget. Wooden cladding looks extremely good but is quite pricey. Our suggestion would be to paint the majority of the home, with highlights in parts in wooden cladding.

Ashish, The workmanship seems to be an issue with your stone cladding wall. Interlock joints are visible and dirty. This needs to be thoroughly cleaned and grey cement will need color touch ups. Some people go for a lacquer polish to enhance the look of the stones. However, it is equally repulsive for some people who like natural finish. Get a sample stone done first and then decide for the entire wall. It appears to be sandstone, hence it is better if it is coated with lacquer. Thanks, Nitin CORNERSTONE DESIGNS, Bangalore