I covered our brick fireplace and front of the raised hearth with drywall many years ago. But the tile on the hearth and just around the opening need to be replaced. My dilemma, the type of tile, if I increase the size of the tile and go to the edges, I have problems as to how to finish the front of the hearth and the sides of the fireplace. I like sleek, minimalist looks. I removed the mantle 25 yrs ago and have never missed it.