The only 2 story fireplaces I like are stone and are super wide. You need the width to keep the height proportional or it will look like a skinny strip of stone. I don't know what style house you have but if it was my style I'd do that whole fireplace wall in that horizontal plank wainscoting. I've included a link with an example. We upgraded from brick to stone and it was about 400-500 more. I've attached a picture of ours. We didn't do a solid piece of stone for the hearth to save money. Here is a link that might be useful: Horizontal plank wall

Sorry, I don't have a photo of the original brick. Lost it on my old computer. Here is the link to the tutorial/instructions. All you need is two paint colors, a roller and a sponge. Very easy to do! http://www.lowes.com/creative-ideas/other-areas/modern-fireplace-makeover/project Now all I need to do is figure out how to remove the cemented/built in fireplace insert. It's also dated but we figure it will be major work. Anyway, good Luck if you are still trying to decide what to do. Out living room is much more bright now.

Well, I've painted the bricks and area above the shelf. It really helped lighten up the corner area. I'm not sure if I will paint the shelf or leave as is. Lesson learned: the area above the shelf was wood and at first I used a satin paint to match the trim. I felt there was too much shine from the ceiling lights, so I painted over with a matte finish and like it much better. No more glare. I understand where Fori is coming from. I still don't love the fireplace. While painting the bricks I had covered the surround tile to protect them. And I really liked the look of the painted brick w the tile hidden. However, when I pulled off the protective cover to reveal the surround, I felt the same sense of "ugh" I had before painting. Not only is the fireplace dated, but the materials are not cohesive. And painting the brick doesn't change how odd I think the surround looks. That said, I'm glad I painted as it is less dark/dreary. Also, when we are finally able to tear down and replace with a more modern design, the new fireplace will be in the same general light color. It's nice to be able to visualize how the lighter color plays out as we decorate around the area. Any advice on the shelf? Paint the same color as trim? Or try to stain darker--like an espresso? Unfortunately, I can't easily remove to replace the shelf. Sanding would be challenging. Also, there is a groove on the top of the shelf--not sure why it is there (??).

Quarry tile floors are timeless. To update your living room, I'd paint the brick wall the same colour (or one lighter) than the rest of the walls but in a pearl or semi-gloss sheen. Add a large piece of art to the brick wall, a deep blue rug and a floor lamp and your living room will start to come together. What I'm most worried about with the LR is the furniture arrangement. It doesn't promote either socializing or relaxing. The spacing is wrong for a comfy chat and there's no convenient place to put a drink if you want to sit in a chair and read. Is the furniture yours of from the listing pics? In the bathroom, the first thing I'd do is replace the vanity light. It's far too 80s for the look you want. I'd be tempted to paint the bathroom a mossy green, get a fun, 50s-style shower curtain, some white towels and call it done.