Hi ! There are a ton of DIYs on pinterest if you don't have money for a really fancy fireplace cover. Based on what I can see of your decor I guessing you like the more traditional country look? If I'm wrong I apologize. Here is a link to what I am talking about, I hope it help! http://www.huntedinterior.com/2012/09/stacked-log-tutorial.html

I love the stacked log suggestion of kiyoshima. But if you want to close off the fireplace openings because you don't like the sooty look of the interior of the fire box, then consider cleaning it with soap and water and finishing with a mild acid wash. Then place a few potted plants in the openings on both sides to liven it up. You may find that you will need to rotate the potted plants from another location in your home which receives sunlight.

Simple fix! Get two matching single panel firescreens to cover the openings. Place large white pillar candles in the firebox (after the good cleaning recommended above) to complete the look. Or even better, shop our realistic flameless flicker candles that you can turn on and off with a remote so you won't have to move the screens to light them. With the look of candles you get to retain some of the warmth and glow we love about fireplaces.

Another example of the stacked logs. If you have access to the logs, its very inexpensive and easy to remove later.