- 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.

Hi! So I'm not much help with paint color, but wanted to share two things that we did which you might consider: first, we got a high-heat black spraypaint (Rustoleum from Home Depot) and painted the fireplace face plate (the brass part) black, which instantly updated our fireplaces for about $10; second, I did not care for our red brick fireplace, and hand-painted it to look like a different color of brick. Without priming, I hand painted each brick Benjamin Moore Eagle Rock, then sponged on a lighter grey (Willow Creek) and a darker grey (Ironhorse, I think). Later, I decided it needed some brown, so I sponged on a bit of watered down brown paint (can't remember the color). I took care not to get paint on the mortar. The whole project took about a day. It came out great and I get tons of complements. If you are at all hesitant about getting the "painted brick" look when you do it all in one color, I would consider tying this method first. 99% of people would not know that the brick had been painted. If you don't like the way it turns out, you can always go back to your original plan!

Hi all, bought our first home and found out mid sale that fireplace has to be fully replaced. getting it replaced and want to go from first pic to second pic for my fireplace - fireplace is gas, material around is rough drywall. Any ideas please? I just want a simple finish with a floating wood mantel. do I have to use wall boards? help!

This is a floor to cathedral red brick fireplace that I'm trying to update to a more transitional look. I have looked into painting or limewashing white but I feel like there will be alot of painted lines and could be busy. I also think that looks like the budget option. While I AM on a budget, I'd like to investigate more options stucco over the brick? drywalling the brick? Ideas? I can't change the orange peel textured walls or the dark hardwood floors or the fireplace box itself. The hearth goes across to the window wall and sticks out 2 1/2 feet. I have enclosed 3 pics for more clarity. Thxs for any help!