I am in the process of updating my fireplace hearth as we also will install a gas fireplace insert. The wall surrounding the fireplace is stone and we will not remove that. I've removed the old hearth and reduced the overhang to be a rectangle shape. I'd like to use a material that is more contemporary but still looks great with the stone. My two material ideas are to make the hearth of a sleek wood in a dark cherry or smoky mahogony stain. There is an offset mantle further down on the wall that could be updated with the same wood material to tie the look together. My other thought is to use a 10x20 sleek tile with 1/8 grout line, and possible glass tile accent trim. This is the fireplace that will go in: http://www.kingsmanind.com/files/file/152/idv33_36_100.pdf Picture of the fireplace here: https://skydrive.live.com/redir.aspx?cid=772a390f7245b2ba&page=play&resid=772A390F7245B2BA!311&authkey=wBNqeH5xVWY%24

ok,,but can't we see the room? I understand the pallet wall isn't in yet, but it would be nice to see the actual room layout. whats on the floor? what furniture is in there? hows the lighting? lets see the actual fireplace in the basement. BTW, I love this black fireplace you've done in your living room. great colors. If I may make one suggestion? remove that white mantle, it's too traditional looking, and replace w/a wood one stained dark like your pallet colors something like this. this wood looks way better than that white something around this size (if you could find a nice piece of walnut, it'd be perfect) Here,,I photoshopped it for you so you can see and more of a reclaimed piece

Painting the fireplace will definitely modernize it. I painted a fireplace recently and think it turned out nicely. The fireplace is white and the walls are light grey. Was going to replace the fireplace screen but decided to clean it up really well and stripped off the brass inlays that were on it. Have never been a fan of tv above fireplace but have to say, it works quite well. I would suggest a rug in your room to anchor whatever furniture you decide upon. Would also suggest painting the wood trim in your room. Natural wood trim may make a comeback but for me it really dates a room. Good luck and please post after photos!

I will see what can be done with molding to improve the bookshelves. I'm not sure how difficult it will be to remove those stick on mirrors, but will check on that also. I didn't realize there might be stick on wallpaper to just cover them up. The walls will be painted a warm off white color, not yet selected, and I'm wondering if the bookcases/mantle should be painted the same color as the walls to blend in, or white for a contrast. What about the fireplace brick color? Right now, with the exception of the white bricks, everything else, including ceiling, is painted the same color Glidden Antique White. I'm looking for a slightly deeper off white color this time though. I'm finding some of my samples, of various brands, have appeared too yellow on the walls so far.