Shown above. I will say this is my least favorite option. I have typically never been a huge fan of dark painted fireplaces, so maybe that's just my own personal preference giving favoritism? I will say, if you love this look, I would suggest keeping your mantle white, and I also like all of your decor so those items can stay in place!

Shown above. This white painted option is definitely more my speed, and in my opinion lends more towards the farmhouse style! You always have the option of painting your mantle black, if you'd like some contract against the white (I can also "show" you how that looks, if you like that idea!).

Shown above. This is definitely my favorite of the three looks! This is a white wash technique, called german schmear. This process was made famous by Chip and Joanna Gaines, which if you are a farmhouse lover I'm sure you've seen them use this before on their hit HGTV show. I have included two DIY links below, on how to potentially achieve this look. There are also TONS of tutorials and Q&A on Pinterest or Google, so doing a little research can help shed light on this entire process!

https://verycozyhome.com/german-schmear-gives-your-brick-fireplace-old-world-charm/

https://sunshineandorangeblossoms.com/diy-faux-german-smear-tutorial/

I have also included photos of the black and white paint color suggestions, below, to give you a visual for these colors in photos!

Shown above, from left to right: Onyx, Black Magic, Alabaster, and Extra White.

Thank you for the opportunity to help you with your home! I hope you love what I've suggested for you! If you have any questions, want to provide feedback, or need alternatives for any items please contact me via the chat screen which will stay open for seven days after you receive this solution. If you would like to be matched with me for your next project you can leave me a 4 star (or above) rating and also enter my designer referral code of “KristyRodman917“ in your future projects. I look forward to working with you again!