You could remove one door and add logs. Paint other door same color as brick and change the handle to something more modern. Stain the wood an ebony and add accessorie on the mantle - layer her 3 pictures + other items - color vases in various heights, etc. Add a large wicker basket on the ledge. [houzz=];[houzz=]

I'm thinking paint the doors and hinges same as fireplace even handles so the doors don't stand out. Then paint the mantle a rich black or very dark chocolate would give it a very updated look.

If you have to keep the doors trying taking them off and updating with a more modern door front. Do not paint the brick the color is fine and it is already in good condition. Darken the mantle and I am not sure what the fireplace wall color is but that could be changed out easily if needed. Good luck! Matt

HI -- I love this mid century style fireplace ! Paint the little cubby doors the same as the brick and then darken the stain on the mantel board . Other than that I think it is fine .

Or maybe some open shelving instead of cupboards.

So many things you could do in this area! I would leave brick alone. Paint the doors & stain the mantle darker. Maybe change out hardware on the doors. Do like a gallery style wall above mantle. Add a few things around the actual fire place just to make is warm & inviting. Really is a great area & wouldn't take much to update. Can't wait to see what you do with it!

Thanks everyone for your wonderful advice!

i would leave the doors..who wants more things to dust......:)