You could consider painting the brick and staining the mantel to give your fireplace an updated look that is neutral enough to appeal to a wide range of people when you sell.

Hi tamboea,

I love the brick! I put together some ideas. I think a mirror above the mantle will lighten the space and then adding some fireplace tools will make the space more homey. Then I added some other figures you could put on your mantel.

Here are some ideas:
http://www.build.com/favorites/affordable-fireplace-updates-3251?source=fav_hzz_3251

Good luck!

Erica

For selling I would remove the storage unit next to it to declutter the space.I wouldn't paint the brick as some people love the look- those who don't will paint or redo.

If you are selling your home, any home stager would recommend minimal furniture and to remove them. Your Fireplace mantle cannot be cleaned since there is smoke on it and polishing it would make it show more. You can either paint it white as one of the pros metioned or you can have a stone cast mantle installed on top to preserve the brick as is. We can build a modern fireplace mantel that would cost you less than $1,800 and paint those walls beside it BM Revere Pewter included.

I too would suggest you paint the brick a bright white and paint the walls a lighter, brighter, and fresher shade of green. I agree with others that you should remove the storage unit and perhaps use it in a dining room or other family room for staging. Some nice wall art or a colorful tapestry above the mantel will bring color and warmth into the room.