If not white paint, then rinqreation's suggestions will soften and enhance the brick and dark grout. The tiny stair runner is just wide enough to be a wedding runner for the two corn husk dolls, maybe -- something wider or nothing in its place will be grand. Great potential -- show us progress! Congrats on your new home!

You could reface the brick with something like this:
http://houzz.com/photos/5181767

The bricks add so much characters to the house. Consider removing the stair runners and exposing the treads.

I agree, removing the stair runners will really help to simplify the look. For a modern twist, I would also consider placing a larger mirror on the fireplace side and leaning it against the fireplace mantel versus hanging it. this will give a clean, cool, look. here are a few ideas to get you started:


http://deciture.com/shop/decor/belle-and-june/honeycomb-bone-inlay-mirror-frame/

http://deciture.com/shop/decor/pier-1-imports/bobbin-mirror/

http://deciture.com/shop/decor/belle-and-june/dahlia-bone-inlay-mirror/

Assuming the FP decor is from the real estate photos. If not, it needs a big makeover. I'd whitewash the brick - will make a great difference. No runner on the stairs at all. For additional "modern" touches replace the front door, chandelier and bit of stair railing with more contemporary style items.

remove the runner--instantly more modern.

Check out this fireplace makeover. These stones look classy and elegant.

Hi! i agree with removing the runner. I think a more modern chandelier for the foyer will definitely modernize the space.
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Thanks so much everyone for the great ideas. These pics are from the previous owners so we will definitely remove the runner and all the other stuff and design it to our liking. I'll keep you posted on the progress.

HI -- Brick is neither only traditional or only modern . It's the finishing around it that determines the style look. So to modernize the look of the brick you have to modernize what's on and around it. The brick is just brick . To modernize the house is removing the wainscoting and any country style spindles , stair runners , some trims and so on.

Agree with lefty, leave the brick, modernize everything else and the brick will be modern. Front door w leaded window, wall sconces, carpet runner, mantle and trim, wainscoting up the stairs, paneled door in the foyer, banisters. Unless all the traditional elements are changed, painting the fireplace will only give you a painted fireplace in a traditional house. I think for the most bang for your buck I would start by changing ( maybe even just removing? )the mantle and removing the runner and changing the wall sconces. Then go from there. Good luck.