project: fireplace

As it would happen, I stumbled upon a photo the other day that made me question the completion of our hearth room. I’m wondering if our fireplace is due for an upgrade. This is what it looked like when we first bought the place:

Then we painted...

{please excuse the extensive compilation of tools obstructing the view}

 Then added this little thrift-store treasure...

 And that is where the evolution of the fireplace seemingly ended... until this week...

 ...because I just can’t seem to get my mind off of this lovely thing:

Yes, there are some fundamental differences between our fireplace and this beauty - the big one being the type of brick/stone. However there is also the similarity of our dark floors and light, neutral walls. What do you say? Can we pull it off? I sure hope so because I’m just about to jump into this one with both feet and husband is actually very on board this one too! Only hesitation: a painted fireplace is a painted fireplace forever. We shall see, we shall see...