I would work to eliminate the large platform base & mantle, so it is more streamlined...then possibly face it with a stacked stone?

Jayme's right, I think remove the base also.

Idea of how a stream lined look could work..minus your base and mantle...Sorry posted pic twice.

More...although firebox is situated differently, it shows the idea/and a different material

I have to agree that the hearth needs to come off and use stacked stone. The hearth cannot be removed if it is a woodburning fireplace, however. If it's a gas log, you don't have to worry about it.

Yes crown moulding and brass trim will be gone. Base will at least be slimmer, people do like to sit there however. How high should the covering material go?

To the ceiling for a modernist look, preferably in a light color

Ledgestone. My stacked stone wall is not ledgestone:

How does this work for you?



It would be really nice if you could get rid of the hearth on all four sides and reclaim that floor area, even if you inlaid a hearth extension into the floor to avoid having to patch the floor back in.

Whatever material you use, I'd suggest wrapping the whole thing floor to ceiling.