Much nicer!

A classic beauty!

Great detailing.

Love this but makes me pout a bit - I want the white sofa! Paired with the new look - this room is gorgeous!

Love this transformation! Is this a wood burning fireplace or gas?

Thanks benel204, it's a gas log fire. We have central heating, so it's mostly for 'ambiance' :)

Oh, that's good to know because I want to borrow your idea for my fireplace makeover (new house we are buying). See photo of my before.
Is your mantel custom?

Yes I had a cabinet maker build it around/over the old one. We just knocked out the left hand built area. I can post more photos if that helps.

Thanks smcfloss for any additional information. I would probably want to do a "budget" version of what you did. And not sure whether we will cover up the alcove above the fireplace (wallboard) or incorporate it into a "cabinet" unit. I'd prefer to have the all space for hanging art.

ps. I LOVE LOVE the wood beam accents as well with the white molding. Re the beams support beams, molding, faux?

They are original decor, the house is 1920/30's with a splash of Art Deco thrown in. So the moulding/shelving is throughout the house. ( can you access my ideas book?...'work in progress';... you will see it in several shots.... But I'm still uploading so more to come) its a nice feature, but difficult to work with at times! We replicated it around our kitchen area to try and blend the old and new, but kept it white to brighten the area.

Benel204, I look forward to seeing your progress. Please keep me up to date! Sam