Yes, paint/stain it. Remove the items on the shelf. Add a picture/mirror something right above the fireplace. Maybe add two items to the hearth on either side of the fireplace to weigh it down? I'd just play with it and see what helps to make the sides with brick disappear :)

How much do you want to spend or are you just looking for a cosmetic fix? You could have a brick mason come in and remove the sides and even maybe lower the mantel area in the center a bit. It is massive in the room- ultimately it depends on how far you want to go. Do a consult with a Mason and explore your options. Good Luck

Thank you for the input!! Also, I should mention the current decor is not mine, it’s the previous owners.

Thanks Victoria - I was just thinking, "you can do all you want with the fireplace, but with the furniture/valances/decor it won't live up to your expectations!" Haha!! If you can give us some idea of how much you want to spend, you'll get better answers.

I’m thinking this is going to be one of those dilemmas where some of us like the fireplace, some don’t; some will want to paint it; some won’t. But I have other questions. What is the scale of your room compared to the fireplace? Does the fireplace overwhelm the room or do you just not like the size? The style? The color of the bricks? If you want modern as in sleek, smooth, simple lines, then you may want to remove it and start over. If you want to minimize it, you could remove the two “wings” on either side. Someone mentioned budget, and that may drive this project if you decide you want to do more than remove the current decorations on the mantel.

Our house is a back split and the room runs the full length of the house, so it’s quiet a large space (again not my decor). I’m open to painting or hiring a mason to try to remove the wings! Thank you!

For a more modern feel, I would absolutely paint the brick. I would also paint the trim and paint or remove the paneling. I think that may give you the updated space you desire.