Unless you want to add some (darn expensive) authentic A&C detail to the surround, a modern mosaic would be a travesty to all of that original detail.

{{!gwi}}

Leave the brick alone. It's suitable to the home's style. Too bad it's already painted. Brass is also back stylewise. And it never left for some traditional style homes. Like yours.

Your fireplace and mantel are beautiful. I'm with the wise LWO -- you should leave the brick or strip it. Your next best option would be period-appropriate tile. There are some lovely patterned A&C examples, or a solid color in an handcrafted finish would be best

If you go with tile, here is an example:

[Traditional Family Room[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional-family-room-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_720~s_2107) by Chicago Architects & Designers Carr Warner, Architects.

And another

[Traditional Living Room[(https://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional-living-room-ideas-phbr1-bp~t_718~s_2107) by Minneapolis Artists & Artisans Clay Squared to Infinity

This post was edited by gooster on Mon, Nov 4, 13 at 12:58

I'd definitely see about stripping the paint and leaving it as is.

Paint it black or brick red with low sheen. Or strip it back to the original clay brick.

There are too many surface details to tile over the brickwork. What would the plan be for the raised areas? Cut tiles for each little detail like the stepped corbels and the thickened lintel section? That would be so much labor, and is going to look terrible.

This is exactly the feedback I'm looking for. Thank you!