We Took a Basic 70s Brick Fireplace and Turned It Into a Modern Masterpiece

A 70s brick fireplace can either give your living room nostalgic charm or make it look completely dated. For one Columbia, SC homeowner in the Rosewood area, their fireplace felt more like a visual anchor dragging down the entire space. It was dark, bulky, and clashed with their updated kitchen design and home decor. That’s where our 70s brick fireplace makeover came in — and the transformation speaks for itself.
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By the end of this project, the once-drab hearth became the center of a cozy sitting area with fresh trim, cohesive design elements, and a budget-friendly finish that blended perfectly with the rest of the house. Here’s how we tackled it step-by-step.

What Made This 70s Brick Fireplace So Outdated?

Back in the 1970s, interior design trends leaned heavily on earthy tones and heavy textures. Brick fireplaces were built large and wide, often with dark red or orange tones that now clash with modern palettes. The problem with this specific Columbia home was more than just color. The brick surface was uneven, the hearth extended too far into the room, and the mantel was thin and undersized.
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It didn't match the updated kitchen just around the corner, nor the light wood floors that had been recently installed. The fireplace stood out — and not in a good way. The homeowner, Sarah, wanted something that felt intentional and clean. She had seen fireplace makeover videos and was ready for a real change.
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Step-by-Step: Our Brick Fireplace Makeover Process

We approached this fireplace as a full design project, but still stuck to a reasonable budget. Here’s how we brought Sarah’s vision to life:
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1. Cleaning and Priming the Brick

Before we could apply anything, we cleaned the brick thoroughly. Decades of soot and dust had built up on the surface, so a deep scrub was the first order of business. After that, we applied a high-quality masonry primer to prep the surface for paint. This step is critical to avoid flaking later on — especially in humid areas like Columbia.
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Pro Tip: Always use a primer made specifically for brick or stone to create a proper bond.
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2. Choosing the Right Paint and Color Palette

The homeowner didn’t want to lose the brick texture entirely — she just wanted it toned down. So we went with a matte white paint to lighten the vibe while still keeping some of the original charm. This tied in beautifully with her kitchen cabinets and created a more cohesive feel between the rooms.
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We also painted the existing mantel a warm taupe to match the table and trim nearby. Just these small color choices helped modernize the space and highlight the gorgeous lines of the updated fireplace.
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3. Updating the Mantel and Hearth

The original mantel lacked character. We replaced it with a thick reclaimed wood beam, which added warmth and texture to the space. For the hearth, we installed large, neutral-colored tiles with a soft concrete pattern that mimicked natural stone. This choice not only looked fab, but it also made the hearth safer and easier to clean.
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4. Bringing in New Decor and Lighting

Once the 70s brick fireplace makeover was complete, it was time to decorate. We styled the new mantel with simple decor: a mix of framed art, candles, and a touch of greenery to give it grace and depth. A modern sconce on each side brought in layered lighting and made the entire cozy sitting area glow in the evenings.
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This wasn’t just a fireplace update — it was a total room refresh. With smart decorating, Sarah created a space where friends could gather, relax, and feel right at home.
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Ideas for Your Own 70s Brick Fireplace Makeover

Not every project has to be a full renovation. If you’re looking to tackle a similar makeover in your Columbia house, here are some affordable ideas that don’t require a complete rebuild:
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• Whitewash or limewash the brick for a more textured finish
• Install a floating mantel for a clean, modern look
• Add built-in shelves around the fireplace to make use of vertical space
• Paint the brick a bold color to turn it into a statement piece
• Create a faux concrete overlay for a sleek, industrial vibe
  
  

You can also use apps like Houzz or Pinterest to save decorating ideas and play around with mood boards before starting your project.
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How This Makeover Impacted the Whole Home

After the makeover, the fireplace wasn’t just “fixed” — it became a design anchor for the rest of the house. The updated hearth pulled together elements from the adjacent kitchen, helped the decor feel more cohesive, and gave the room a brand-new vibe.

Even better? The project stayed within budget. With affordable materials and a simple paint strategy, this transformation didn’t break the bank. That’s what makes 70s brick fireplace makeover projects so popular: they offer big visual payoff with minimal construction.
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Sarah even left us a comment on our project gallery: “I’m so glad I decided to do this. My house feels complete now, and I didn’t expect it to make the space feel this warm.”
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Don’t Let A Dated Fireplace Drag Down Your Space

A dated fireplace can weigh down the look and feel of your entire living area. But with the right materials, smart color choices, and a clear vision, even a basic 70s brick fireplace makeover can be turned into a modern, gorgeous focal point.

This Columbia project is proof that with the right approach, you don’t need a massive renovation to create a stunning transformation. Whether you’re updating for resale or just want to enjoy your space more, don’t overlook the power of a brick fireplace makeover.

Need help transforming your fireplace? Brick Mason Columbia specializes in turning old masonry into stylish, safe, and functional spaces. From whitewashing to custom mantels and full rebuilds, our team is ready to bring your vision to life. Reach out today to get started.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you modernize a 70s brick fireplace without replacing it?
A 70s brick fireplace makeover doesn’t require full demolition. You can modernize it with paint, a new mantel, updated hearth materials, and simple trim work. Painting the brick white or gray, adding a wood beam mantel, and styling it with clean decor can completely change the look while keeping the original structure intact.
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Is it safe to paint a brick fireplace?
Yes, it’s safe as long as the brick is in good condition and you use the right products. Always clean the surface thoroughly and use a heat-resistant masonry primer before applying paint. For active fireplaces, make sure the paint is rated for high temperatures near the firebox.

What color is best for a brick fireplace makeover?
Neutral colors like white, gray, and beige work best for a brick fireplace makeover. They brighten the space and pair well with most home decor styles. If you want a bold statement, charcoal or navy can create a dramatic, upscale vibe without overpowering the room.

Can I DIY a 70s brick fireplace makeover on a budget?
Absolutely. Many homeowners in Columbia have tackled this kind of project using simple tools and materials. Start with cleaning and priming, then apply paint, swap out the mantel, and use online decorating apps for design ideas. It’s a manageable weekend project with the right prep.

How much does a brick fireplace makeover cost?
A basic DIY brick fireplace makeover can cost as little as $150 for paint, primer, and decor. Professional fireplace updates — including hearth retiling, mantel installation, and custom trim — can range from $800 to $2,500 depending on scope. At Brick Mason Columbia, we help you stay within budget without sacrificing style.