Hi, as you can see from the attached picture, my fireplace could use some updating. Here's what I'm thinking of doing and would appreciate any input. I'd like to update the fireplace with stone. I don't know if I should go right over the brick or tear it down. I lean towards tear down. I do want to get rid of the brick "bench" in front of the firebox and put slate or granite down on the floor and then stone under, around and over the firebox, maybe sheetrock towards the top. I think I can get rid of the vent over the firebox and there's two small square air intakes (I think that's what they are) on either side of the brick "bench").

I'm also thinking of getting a gel or ethanol inset for the firebox instead of burning wood or putting in a gas line. I've seen some that look very nice. Again, any advice would be much appreciated!

HRR