After

Some more

Your updated fireplace looks very nice! I have the same type of sandstone and mantel and hearth as your before, built in NE Ohio in 1964! (and every bedroom was done in that ugly brown paneling!) I want very much to change the very dated fireplace and never thought painting the stone would be an option. What paint/brand did you use?? Also do you find the black flooring lots of work to care for, showing lots of specs/dirt? Thanks so much for sharing your pictures!!!

Did you paint the paneling or remove and install wallboard?

Hi Sarabeth,
I removed everything, had to, there was on insulation at all. I put up 5000 square feet of dry wall:(
The only thing I did not change was the fireplace, my husband love it and did not want me to touch it. After about 1 month, I painted it. All you need is a really good primer, ask your local paint store, they will be able to recommend a good one. Once it's primed, I put about 3 coats of flat, pure white trim paint :) that's it! I put in the updated insert once the paint job was done.
Regarding the floors, they are dark but not as dark as what the picture shows. It is a pain to keep clean but I love them :)

Wicked!!! i luv it! Love the floors!!

Very refreshed!

What a beautiful change! People need to understand just because it's wood doesn't make it good! Your hard work shows now enjoy,

Added note, painted paneling is still just that painted paneling. Glad you went the extra to take it down add insulation and dry wall. Worth the extra $