Modernize Your Outdated Stone Fireplace With These Genius Ideas

While some people love stone fireplaces that make you want to hunker down and enjoy a roaring fire, they don't always work for those striving for more modern aesthetics. Vintage-style fireplaces often have rocks and stones protruding from rough grout. And, contemporary interiors with sleek furniture and fresher color schemes don't align well with this rugged look. Fortunately, there are many ways to modernize a hearth that features an obsolete style.

Many of these fireplaces are salvageable, whether you want to completely hide the stone or transform it into a more fashionable design. Keep in mind that part of why so many of these fireplaces look so outdated is because they're decades old. Many years of use and natural dust build-up are likely amplifying their dated appearance. So, start your DIY by using one of these easy ways to clean your stone fireplace. Then, get inspired by these ways to update the style using paint, construction materials, and decorative additions. 

Simply changing the colors of a rock-style fireplace can completely transform the look. Mask outdated colors by applying a layer of type-S white mortar mix over the rocks and grout. The thin layer neutralizes the gaudy colors, creating more neutral-toned rocks without changing the texture. This retains the character of the fireplace but gives it a more modern vibe that meshes better with contemporary designs. Plus, this DIY project is very affordable, since an 80-pound bag of white mortar mix costs less than $10. 

This DIYer filled large gaps within their fireplace and then used limewash to whiten and tone down the colorful stone. Limewash is put on like paint, and if it's too thick, you can dilute it with extra water. This can also get rid of visible brush strokes on the rocks. The final surface will be a warm, chalky surface that will look stunning contrasted by a rich wood mantle and wrought iron accent pieces. Limewash is also a better option than regular paint since it allows porous stone to breath, reducing the risk of damage or crumbling over time. While this is more of a concern for outdoor brick — which is more in contact with rain, freezing temps, and fluctuating weather — it's a safe precaution to take with indoor stone.

If your rock fireplace doesn't have a mantel (or an outdated one), adding a modern-style wood plank makes it appear more modern and functional. Purchase a wood plank to paint and seal yourself, or order a premade option like Amazon's Saumonieres Black Fireplace Mantel Shelf. Make sure the wood is one solid color with straight edges and a matte finish to maintain a more modern-esque appearance. Install this piece roughly 54 to 60 inches above the floor, making sure it's not too close to the ceiling or fireplace opening. Then, decorate your mantle with modern touches to update the area's whole vibe.

Completely hide a natural rock fireplace by putting wire mesh over the rocks and skim-coating them in cement. This option is best for people who don't want to keep any rocky texture in the room.  Be aware that cement starts looking blotchy as it dries so give it a few days or even weeks to fully even out. Once it's dry, use latex paint or concrete stain the same color as your walls to blend the fireplace in. Or, use a color two or three shades down on the paint strip from your wall color for a more pronounced dimension.

A stone fireplace coated in intensely-colored paint creates a statement-making moment of modern drama. A dark color will better match contemporary furniture, making it feel like an intentional part of the design. For an efficient project and a quality finish, look for a tool like Vonforn's Paint Sprayer that allows you to cover the area more easily than rolling. Then, choose a sprayer-friendly paint that's designed for fireplaces in your chosen color. This is heat-resistant paint that can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees. Using regular paint can cause the job to either peel over time or emit harmful fumes when mixed with high heat. If the starkness of black is too dramatic for you, look for a lighter shade like charcoal or even navy for a similar yet less intense look.

Many antique rock fireplaces have rustic doors shielding the flames. Replacing them could majorly update the look and help decorate your fireplace hearth. Modern fireplace doors typically feature clean edges, metallic finishes, and glass windows. However, it's imperative that you also find a door that fits your fireplace type and dimensions. Door manufacturers usually request information about your fireplace, while Amazon's Pleasant Hearth Alpine Fireplace Glass Door has a sizing chart for reference.

A stylish fire screen is a must-have to update your fireplace without a major project while adding safety and distracting from a dated design. Plus, fire screens are essential for wood-burning fireplaces with an open hearth, a common design for rock and stone builds. A modern screen usually has a metal frame, geometric accents, and a mesh or glass center. Look for styles with metal legs for extra stability, such as Claire Crowe Collection's elegant gold Stepping Stones Screen or Amazon's modern black Vevor Iron Mesh Fireplace Screen.

Many vintage fireplaces have inserts in outdated colors like shiny brass or are simply suffering from a worn-down appearance after years of use. However, spray painting your current insert can modernize and freshen up the look. Pick a matte black hue like Amazon's Krylon High Heat Spray Paint in Flat Black, which can withstand up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. And, don't forget to cover the surrounding fireplace with painter's tape and a tarp to protect the rocks from overspray.