Metal gas fireplace needs updating, any suggestions?

We moved into a house with a green "70's" metal fireplace. Hate it, but don't have allot of extra funds to take it out and put in a few one. The fireplace runs from about a foot from the floor all the way to the ceiling, narrowing as it goes up. I'd love to enclose it in fake brick or wood frame, but don't know if this is safe. Can a gas fireplace be framed safely? Is there perhaps a painting technique that might update the look of the fireplace? I do not know where to go with this one. That olive green is more than I can take. We own the home, so changes are possible. But since we just recently purchased the home, we don't have allot of extra money to spend on this project, but do desire a drastic change. Anyone our there seen a similiar problem? Thanks for your help and replies!!!

Public Comments

  1. I just saw a 'Divine Decorating' episode on HGTV where they painted a fireplace (brick) black and then coated it with this iron paint that rusts as it dries. I am not sure if you can paint that on metal that will get heated, but the red rust tones looked great. Try their website.