Diane, Yesterday I saw an update on an old fireplace that took my breath away (but then again I am a fan of reclaimed wood, and especially HUMAN SAFE pallet wood).
but here is a link with lots of other updating ideas ;) Hope you find something you like. Good Luck with your project and thanks for using Hometalk for ideas
Paint or whitewash the brick in a lighter, more modern color. Depending on your current mantle, paint it or change it to a more modern style. Add shiplap from the mantle up to the ceiling for a cute farm/cottage look for a cheap price.
Paint it or white wash it
We have considered putting faux stones on the surface.
Have also seen wood, tile, faux marble, etc. used to cover the surface. It all depends on the look that you prefer.
I love the recycled wood look. Different sizes of wood all the way around your fireplace would look nice.
Diane, Yesterday I saw an update on an old fireplace that took my breath away (but then again I am a fan of reclaimed wood, and especially HUMAN SAFE pallet wood).
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/195906652515313120/
but here is a link with lots of other updating ideas ;) Hope you find something you like. Good Luck with your project and thanks for using Hometalk for ideas
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/update-brick-fireplace/?lp=true
You can also do the German Smear, mortar wash... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJqFuG1rJGI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5zWiJnz9Vc
Whitewash, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkVBm3bitEE
Paint or whitewash the brick in a lighter, more modern color. Depending on your current mantle, paint it or change it to a more modern style. Add shiplap from the mantle up to the ceiling for a cute farm/cottage look for a cheap price.