I too like the stone. I imagine it's a veneer -- stones that are thin and laid up against something structural. For the fireplace, maybe concrete block, and for the wall, I bet there is a standard wood framed wall behind it.

If so, demo is messy, but not too difficult. Two people with the proper tools, 1 day.

This is something where as a General Contractor, I bring in my Masonry subcontractor to safely demo the existing surface and haul it off while minimizing the dust/floor damage. This may be a one day demo. Then, we have installed different faux stone, completed drywall & texture repairs and painted/glazed and even wallpapered. All are different price points and aren't an easy guess until the product is selected. This fireplace is a great focal point, but just may need an update.

I definitely want to keep a fireplace but just thought stone of some sort may look more updated than the old 70's rock.

I have had this issue on several jobs. Typically we go right over it with new material and don't demo anything. I like the texture and visual interest the stone provides for the room so would go back with some type of stone again. It can be anything from a tile to a stacked stone. Make sure whatever you choose is either a natural stone or has trim/molding that you can properly transition the corners. Best wishes on your new home!

I'm with those who like the stone. I'd keep it and work with it.

I would suggest going over rather than a demo. no matter how careful the crew, dust is a real problem. it gets between floor boards and tracked into bathroom and generally everywhere. that said, I like it as is.

I like the rock fireplace. I think the rock wall next to the fireplace should be covered with sheet rock or other material.

Covering just the wall may make the difference.

I like the fireplace but would cover the adjacent wall. You could start with that, and see it it solves the problem of too much rock.

Any thoughts on how to place furniture as far as which direction the TV and couches should face? I am horrible with this! Around the corner from the fireplace is the dining and kitchen. Thanks!

I'm not saying this is the ideal spot for the TV, but if you decided to wall over the right side of the rock wall, you could take that opportunity to run your tv & speaker electrical wiring behind the new wall. It might be a nice place for low built in cabinets, but the TV might be too close to the front door for comfort? Not sure. It looks like a large room. Perhaps large enough to have 2 separate focal point/seating areas unless, you really want to be able to view the TV and the fireplace at the same time. I personally like that but there are many who want separate focal points if the space is large enough. Only you can decide how your family lives and is comfortable, and how you want to enjoy this beautiful room and any nice view from the patio doors.

here are a few ideas to inspire you...