I am redoing my fireplace and am considering the surround (mantel, legs, and hearth) in cast stone. I am not quite sure how I feel about it. It is a tuscan style, not ornate at all, and seems more contempory than wood. It will go in my family room. I like the style, but am not sure about the finish. It is a rough finish and is supposed to resemble stone, similar to travertine. If I get it , I am planning to go with a light shade, but wonder if it looks unfinished. I know it is supposed to look that way, but I am not quite sure how I feel about it. Any comments? Anyone familiar with this type of fireplace? Would love to hear from any of you who have a cast stone fireplace. Do you like it? How do you feel about the finish? Are there any maintance issue with the finish? I understand that they are very sturdy. Thanks in advance for your comments.