Paint??? Yes it has been tried before. go for it

Are you going to be in this house for a while? Consider starting with window trim and baseboards first. Leave the fireplace alone till you are done with the trim. A mix of white and wood looks good. I am hesitant to see a lovely wood fireplace painted - not easily undone. In the end, it is your house and you get to do it the way you like.

If you live in an area where they love stained woodwork, like Minnesota, and you do not plan to live there a long time, you might think twice about painting.

Lord no don't paint that! Its so beautiful! Sad you aren't in love with it!

I definitely think you should be happy. I know some think it's a sin......but that's what paint was made for right?...painting. lol :) Another houzzer is actually doing this same thing as we speak.....so if you want a peek at the before and after.....I will post the link here and you can check it out, She recently updated with news of the painting beginning, Just click the link. Hope this helps. Good luck! :) I'm sure she will post pictures in the near future.

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/home-sick-in-louisiana-dsvw-vd~1092424

I painted all of my solid oak trim white..... and I love it!

Thanks so much for all your advice!!! I think I might try painting it!