How might I update this old fireplace?

add a mantle for starts..a nice big chunky reclaimed barnwood type..also you may try high heat flat black spray paint if you want that brass to go away

First, I like the texture of the fireplace, but it is time to replace the very dated screen and tools. The texture of the fireplace is also very rustic/natural, and is surrounded by furniture that is detailed and "fussier", so the furniture looks very out of place. I would replace the furniture with pieces that have a simpler design and sleeker lines. A simple, rustic mantle would add so much - perhaps a single piece of wood or stone across the length would be lovely.

You also need some contrast - the walls need to be another color so the fireplace "pops". I suggest a neutral, but can't suggest a color until I know what color your furniture and other pieces are.

Put a wood mantale. just above the firer place ,shelves all the way up the right hand side and a big mirror above the mantle.

I agree with the comments for a mantle. Also the high heat paint for the screen. I did mine in black and that alone made a huge difference. Good luck

I would stucco the fireplace and paint it a corresponding color to complement the walls. I would also add a corresponding mantel stained a darker wood color that matches the decor

If you want some contrast, you could use a soft light brown paint rubbed onto the brick with an old towel and rubbed right back off with another towel right away. You can choose how dark you want it by the paint color but also how much you rub off.

(I used this technique on my fireplace and it worked great! Fast and easy.) I would not use a paint brush because it looks too fake with that method.

If you want to update the look of the stones, you could always paint the grout a different color (look on Amazon for grout paint). Adding a mantle would also be cute!

This answer may seem like it would never work ., however my son has a huge brick fire place in his home he wasn't sure if it would work for the home or his family ,but he painted it black it worked with maple floors as a contrast and grounded the whole room which is open and airy .