Your brick fireplace has been the same shade of reddish-orange for two decades. Every time guests walk in, you notice it first not in a good way. Maybe it’s the outdated grout lines, the dark soot stains, or just the way it clashes with your newly updated living room. The thing is, a fireplace is often the focal point of a room, which means it either anchors your entire design or it drags everything down. I’ve found that when homeowners finally decide to tackle their brick fireplace, they often underestimate how much impact a thoughtful makeover can have on the entire space.
Here’s what I’ve learned from helping countless people refresh their fireplaces: you don’t need a total rebuild. In fact, some of the most stunning transformations come from strategic styling, paint choices, and finishing touches that cost far less than you’d think. By the end of this article, you’ll have 15 concrete ideas you can actually implement ranging from simple weekend projects to more involved renovations. The key is choosing what aligns with your style, budget, and how much disruption you’re willing to tolerate.
Understanding Your Fireplace Starting Point
Before jumping into makeover ideas, take an honest look at what you’re working with. Is your brick structurally sound but just aesthetically tired? Are the mortar joints crumbling? Is there active fire damage or heat discoloration? These questions matter because they’ll determine which ideas are realistic for your situation.
I always recommend cleaning the fireplace thoroughly first you’d be amazed how much difference this makes. Use a stiff-bristled brush and a mild masonry cleaner to remove decades of soot, dust, and grime. This simple step often reveals the true color of your brick and makes you realize you might not need as dramatic a change as you thought. Sometimes what looks like an ugly fireplace is just a dirty one.
Makeover Idea 1: Modern White Paint for a Clean Refresh
Painting brick has divided homeowners for years, but I’m firmly in the “it’s your house” camp. If you want white brick, go for it. In my experience, a fresh white or soft cream paint transforms a dark, imposing fireplace into something that feels contemporary and bright.
What to expect: 2–3 days (including prep and drying time)
Difficulty level: Beginner to intermediate
Approximate cost: $150–$400 USD
The real work here is preparation. You’ll need to fill any deep gaps with paintable caulk, let it cure, then sand smooth. Use a primer designed for masonry—this is non-negotiable. I’ve seen people skip this step and end up repainting within two years. A quality masonry primer costs about $30–$50 USD more, but it’s worth every penny.
Apply two coats of high-quality exterior-grade paint (yes, exterior paint—it handles heat better). Soft whites like Swiss Coffee or Alabaster tend to look more sophisticated than bright whites, which can feel sterile. If pure white feels too stark, consider warm creams or pale grays. I’ve found that slightly warmer whites feel less clinical and blend beautifully with traditional or transitional decor.
Pro tip: Paint the back wall of the fireplace opening and the firebox darker—charcoal or deep gray works beautifully. This creates depth and draws the eye inward, making the fireplace feel more recessed and intentional.
Makeover Idea 2: Whitewashing for Texture and Depth
If you love the brick’s natural character but want a lighter look, whitewashing is your answer. This technique gives you the best of both worlds: you can still see the brick texture and slight color variation, but everything feels fresher and more refined.
What to expect: 1–2 days
Difficulty level: Beginner
Approximate cost: $75–$200 USD
Mix one part white latex paint with two parts water—you’re looking for a milky consistency. Use a wide brush to apply this mixture directly to the damp brick. Work in small sections and wipe away excess with a damp cloth if you want it lighter, or let it sit if you prefer heavier coverage. The beauty is that whitewashing is forgiving and reversible if you hate it.
I’ve found that whitewashing works particularly well with older brick that has natural color variation and texture. It softens the fireplace without eliminating its character. If you have relatively uniform, modern brick, full paint might feel more polished.
Makeover Idea 3: Stone Veneer Surround for a High-Impact Upgrade
This is where things get more involved, but the transformation is genuinely dramatic. Stacked stone veneer or thin brick veneer over your existing fireplace creates a completely different aesthetic. Modern stacked stone feels contemporary and sophisticated; traditional stone looks classic and timeless.
What to expect: 4–7 days (including installation and grouting)
Difficulty level: Intermediate to advanced (or hire a professional)
Approximate cost: $800–$2,500 USD for materials; $1,500–$4,000 USD if professionally installed
The process involves applying a thin adhesive base to your existing brick, then adhering the veneer pieces and grouting. Unlike a full fireplace rebuild, this works directly over your existing structure, so you’re not dealing with new footings or hearths. I’ve done this with cultured stone, real thin slate, and contemporary stacked stone—all yield beautiful results.
The key mistake I see people make is inconsistent grout depth and color. Buy slightly more grout than you think you need, keep color samples, and maintain uniform spacing between pieces. If you’re not confident with grouting, hiring a mason for this step alone might be worth it.
Makeover Idea 4: Herringbone or Pattern Brick Accent
If your fireplace is already a light color (or if you’re painting it), consider creating a geometric pattern with contrasting grout or a different finish. A simple herringbone pattern or stacked-bond layout can completely change the visual interest of the surface.
What to expect: 2–3 days
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Approximate cost: $200–$600 USD (if repointing; minimal cost if just creating visual patterns with paint)
This works especially well if you’re repointing your fireplace anyway. You can repoint with a contrasting grout color—dark charcoal against cream brick, or light gray against warm brick. This isn’t a massive expense, but it creates a surprisingly sophisticated effect.
Alternatively, if your fireplace is painted, you can create faux patterns using a darker paint shade and a stencil. It’s subtle but adds architectural interest without any actual structural changes.
Makeover Idea 5: Dark or Moody Colors for Drama
Not everything needs to be light and airy. In my experience, dark fireplace finishes are having a real moment, and honestly, they can be stunning in the right space. Deep charcoal, black, or even navy create a moody, sophisticated focal point.
What to expect: 2–3 days
Difficulty level: Beginner to intermediate
Approximate cost: $150–$350 USD
Dark colors make a fireplace feel more recessed and cocoon-like—perfect if your living room is large and you want the fireplace to feel intimate. Pair this with warm lighting (think brass or warm gold fixtures) and cozy furnishings, and you’ve got something genuinely inviting.
The one caution: dark paint shows dust and surface debris more easily, so you’ll need to dust your fireplace more frequently. Not a dealbreaker, but worth knowing upfront.
Makeover Idea 6: Marble or Quartz Facing
For a high-end look that genuinely impresses, consider marble or engineered quartz facing around your fireplace. This creates a luxe, timeless aesthetic that feels elevated and intentional.
What to expect: 5–7 days (professional installation recommended)
Difficulty level: Advanced (hire a professional)
Approximate cost: $2,000–$5,000+ USD including installation
This is a bigger investment, but if you’re planning to stay in your home long-term and want something that’ll impress for decades, it’s worth considering. The fireplace becomes a genuine design statement rather than something you’re trying to improve.
I’ve overseen projects with brushed marble, polished marble, and matte quartz finishes. Each creates a different mood. Brushed marble feels slightly more casual and contemporary; polished marble feels formal and classic; matte quartz feels modern and understated.
Makeover Idea 7: Shiplap or Shaker Panel Surround
Adding shiplap or raised-panel millwork around your brick fireplace creates architectural interest and a completely different aesthetic. This works beautifully in farmhouse, coastal, or contemporary spaces.
What to expect: 3–5 days
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Approximate cost: $400–$1,200 USD
The process involves building out a frame, installing the shiplap or panels, finishing (usually with paint), and trim work. The beauty is that your existing brick becomes a backing—you’re not removing or replacing anything. This means the project is reversible if you change your mind down the road.
I’ve found that white or off-white shiplap creates a clean, fresh aesthetic, while warmer greige tones feel more sophisticated. If you’re going this route, leave some breathing room between the shiplap and your fireplace opening—you don’t want it to feel cramped or like the fireplace is being swallowed.
Makeover Idea 8: Black Fireplace Mantel and Trim
Sometimes the magic is in the details. If your brick fireplace itself is fine but the surrounding trim feels dated, consider painting the mantel, shelf, and any surround trim a crisp black or charcoal.
What to expect: 1–2 days
Difficulty level: Beginner
Approximate cost: $50–$150 USD
This is one of the quickest, most affordable makeovers I recommend. A black mantel creates definition and makes your fireplace feel more intentional and designed. It also gives you a perfect surface for styling—white decor, green plants, and art all pop against black.
The key is ensuring the trim is clean and properly prepped before painting. If it’s lacquered or heavily glossy, sand it lightly first so the paint adheres properly.
Makeover Idea 9: Arched Brick Feature Above the Mantel
If your fireplace lacks architectural detail, consider adding an arched brick element above the mantel. This can be built with real thin brick or cultured stone over a curved backing, creating genuine architectural interest.
What to expect: 4–6 days
Difficulty level: Advanced (hire a professional)
Approximate cost: $800–$2,000 USD
This works beautifully in older homes where a simple rectangular fireplace feels a bit plain. An arch immediately makes the fireplace feel more substantial and designed. It also creates a natural focal point that draws the eye and makes the whole room feel more intentional.
I’ve seen this done with warm-toned brick that complements the existing fireplace, creating subtle visual interest rather than stark contrast. The effect is sophisticated without being trendy.
Makeover Idea 10: Mixed Material Surround (Brick + Wood + Metal)
Combining brick with contrasting materials creates visual interest and modern character. Picture brick surrounding a stacked wood shelf, metal accents, and a modern mantel—it feels intentional and curated.
What to expect: 4–7 days depending on the scope
Difficulty level: Intermediate to advanced
Approximate cost: $600–$2,000 USD
The key to pulling this off is restraint. You don’t want five different materials fighting for attention. What works best is choosing two complementary materials and letting them work together. Warm brick with light wood looks timeless; brick with black steel accents feels contemporary; brick with brass fixtures feels luxe.
Makeover Idea 11: Fireplace Nook Styling and Built-Ins
Sometimes the fireplace itself doesn’t need major work—it needs a proper frame. Adding built-in shelving around your fireplace, creating a cozy reading nook, or building out a complete wall treatment can transform how the fireplace functions in your space.
What to expect: 5–10 days depending on scope
Difficulty level: Intermediate to advanced
Approximate cost: $1,000–$3,000 USD
Built-ins create a sense of permanence and intentionality. They give you space to display books, decor, and personal items that make the fireplace feel like part of a fully designed room rather than an isolated element. In my experience, a poorly styled fireplace looks like an accident; a well-styled fireplace with supporting built-ins looks like intentional design.
Makeover Idea 12: Updated Hearth and Apron
The area directly in front of your fireplace—the hearth—sets the tone for the entire feature. Replacing an outdated or worn hearth with new stone, tile, or concrete creates an immediate upgrade.
What to expect: 2–4 days
Difficulty level: Intermediate (or hire a professional)
Approximate cost: $300–$1,200 USD depending on materials
A new hearth can anchor the entire fireplace update. I’ve overseen projects where the brick above was fine, but a fresh, modern hearth completely transformed the space. Natural stone looks timeless; large-format tiles feel contemporary; sealed concrete feels industrial-modern.
Makeover Idea 13: Fireplace Lighting and Ambiance
This is easy to overlook, but strategic lighting absolutely changes how your fireplace feels. Installing accent lighting above or beside the fireplace creates drama and highlights architectural detail.
What to expect: 1–2 days
Difficulty level: Intermediate
Approximate cost: $200–$500 USD for quality fixtures and installation
Warm brass or black sconces flanking the fireplace look intentional and sophisticated. Recessed lighting in a soffit above the fireplace creates subtle uplighting that makes everything look more expensive. These aren’t structural changes, but they’re transformative.
Makeover Idea 14: Removing the Fireplace Doors and Cleaning the Opening
If your fireplace has old, ornate doors or a dated glass enclosure, simply removing them can feel like an upgrade. A clean, open fireplace opening feels more elegant and less “1990s” than an enclosed version.
What to expect: A few hours
Difficulty level: Beginner
Approximate cost: $0–$100 USD
You’ll want to clean the firebox thoroughly once doors are removed—decades of soot and debris can hide inside. Sometimes this simple change is all a fireplace needs to feel contemporary. If you’re concerned about heat loss or safety, this isn’t ideal, but aesthetically, it’s often transformative.
Makeover Idea 15: Seasonal Styling and a Fresh Mantel Design
This is the simplest makeover of all, but it’s surprisingly powerful. A thoughtfully styled mantel—with the right objects, plants, and artwork—can make an ordinary fireplace feel intentional and designed.
What to expect: 1–2 hours
Difficulty level: Beginner
Approximate cost: $50–$300 USD depending on decor choices
What works best is a rule of threes: choose three to five objects that feel balanced and intentional rather than cluttered. A mirror or artwork above creates height and draws the eye. Greenery (real or high-quality artificial) adds life. Candles or small lighting elements add warmth. Books, decorative objects, or family photos personalize the space.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcrowding the mantel. Three to five items look intentional; twenty look cluttered.
Ignoring the firebox. A sooty, debris-filled firebox ruins the whole effect, no matter how beautiful the surround.
Mismatching materials. If your fireplace is traditional, adding ultra-modern materials can feel disjointed. Consider your overall room aesthetic.
Neglecting the hearth area. The ground-level space in front of the fireplace is just as important as the fireplace itself.
Rushing the prep work. Whether painting or adding veneer, proper surface preparation determines how long your makeover lasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I paint my brick fireplace myself, or should I hire someone?
Painting is absolutely a DIY project if you’re comfortable with prep work and patience. The key is proper primer and quality paint. If you’ve never painted before or the fireplace is very large, hiring a professional takes the pressure off and usually ensures better results.
How much does a professional fireplace makeover typically cost?
It varies dramatically based on the scope. A fresh paint job might be $200–$500 USD. Adding veneer could be $2,000–$4,000 USD. A full renovation with built-ins and new materials could exceed $5,000 USD. Get multiple quotes and understand exactly what’s included.
Is it safe to paint a fireplace that gets direct heat?
Yes, as long as you use exterior-grade paint and masonry primer. These products are designed to handle heat and moisture. Interior paint is not appropriate for this application.
What’s the best color for a brick fireplace in 2026?
Soft whites, warm creams, and moody charcoal are all having moments. The best choice depends on your room’s overall aesthetic. Light colors feel contemporary and airy; dark colors feel cozy and moody. There’s no objectively “best” color—only what works for your space.
How long do fireplace makeovers typically last?
A properly executed makeover lasts 10–20 years or longer. Paint might need refreshing after 10 years if the fireplace gets regular use. Stone or veneer should last decades. Quality materials and proper prep work extend the life significantly.
Can I remove my fireplace doors myself?
Usually, yes. Most doors are attached with screws or bolts that you can access from inside the fireplace. Just ensure the fireplace is completely cool and empty before starting. If you’re uncertain, a quick consultation with a fireplace professional costs very little and ensures you don’t damage anything.
Moving Forward
Your fireplace doesn’t need to stay the same color it’s been for twenty years. Whether you’re painting it white, adding dramatic stone veneer, or simply styling the mantel with intention, there’s a makeover here that matches your vision and budget.
In my experience, the homeowners who feel most satisfied with their fireplace updates are those who took time to envision the final result before starting. Look at inspiration photos, think about how your fireplace fits into your overall room aesthetic, and choose a project that feels exciting rather than overwhelming.
Start small if you’re uncertain paint the mantel, add some styling, see how it feels. You can always move to bigger projects once you’ve built confidence. The goal is creating a fireplace that makes you proud to have guests over and genuinely enjoy your own space. That’s always worth the effort.