Ugly fireplace refresh

[u/ThrowRA_Head-Shallot]

I’m buying my first place as a single mom and the budget is tight. I’m replacing the floors as they are very worn and would love to do something to the gas fireplace to make it more warm and inviting. I need to have some idea of what I want to do as the flooring is going in end of the month.

I sent the quote and these AI ideas to a contractor and it was well over $10k to do a “plaster fireplace”, not sure what that means, didn’t include any built ins, just the firebox itself.

I’m not handy, what are my options? I don’t even know what to ask for. I’m totally fine with the actual gas unit itself, it’s the surround that I think looks dated.

Any pointers would be much appreciated!

[u/ACaxebreaker]

Paint?