I would recommend framing over it and installing tile on the front and a mantle. Below is an example of a finished fireplace we did as apart of a larger project.

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I notice soot above the fire box, looks like the chimney needs cleaning. You could repaint it. Put an attractive large piece of art over the mantle, off center the clock and call it a day.

Hard to say from the photos posted, but am I correct that this is an old craftsman bungalow? Looks like someone took the original FP and did something weird with those vents. I might restore it to an updated version of the original, and get some custom vent covers made in brass or stainless.

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Lots of DIY online for cleaning that brick. Then hang vertical art no wider than the firebox 5" above the mantel. The larger clock might work to right or left if not a plug in style.

Adding transitional items maybe? weathered finishes [this is zinc hood]

... a year ago, called 'timeless' with limestone fp.

[https://www.houzz.com/magazine/zinc-range-hood-and-a-limestone-fireplace-create-a-timeless-look-stsetivw-vs~90234951[(https://www.houzz.com/magazine/zinc-range-hood-and-a-limestone-fireplace-create-a-timeless-look-stsetivw-vs~90234951)

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everything is so gray. I'd bring in some color and do a nice piece of art in place of the mirror. remove the flowers and clock.

get the brick cleaned. that will help out a lot.

try replacing the mantel w/warm wood, and maybe painting the surrounding walls a different color. here is an example of dark brick, light walls and a wood mantel w/colored art. you need to bring in some items like this to brighten it up a bit.

lastly, paint the gold

Thanks for your input. We are in the process of purchasing this house and definitely will be cleaning the limestone. Will try some of your suggestions.

Hi Gina4Dice - the best product for getting the smoke stains off your mantel is called Paint "N" Peel. You put it on thick, and peel the smoke off when it is dry.

The smoke stain is an indication that the fireplace isn't drawing properly, so it would be smart to talk to a chimney professional about it. In some states it is mandatory that a Level 2 NFPA fireplace and chimney inspection be performed when property changes hands, in which case there should be some helpful information on the report. If it isn't required, you might still want to contact a certified/qualified person to check it out: http://www.csia.org/ 

Try to resist the urge to do anything drastic to that fireplace right away. They don't do stone work like that any more. It might look better with your furniture and decor than you expect.

It looks like a fireplace with heating vents so installing anything on that fireplace will be a bit of a hassle. I would leave it , clean it, get the chimney cleaned and then see what you like when you are in there for a bit. I actually like it.