- 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.

Thank you roj leather and Simon for your recommendations. I like the hanging chair and the almanda creeper on the wall. This will certainly liven up the patio.

Hi again- I'm an Aussie and the term 'wood burner' means a metal box with a glass door on the front and in the situation where you have a 'double sided wood burner' that means two glass doors on each end. A wood burning fireplace open either side between two rooms is a different thing. Sorry about the confusion. I looked into building one of those in brick and was strongly advised to place a glass panel on one side ( as Ironwood has pointed out) the natural draughts that move through your home will take the smoke with it. A piece of glass will prevent this from happening.

Is there already a chimney in place? The space looks very small, so consider a thin stone veneer and a small, electric fireplace for the look without the need for major construction. See Houzz photos under "electric fireplace" for ideas of style, incorporating storage.