how do i tone down my fireplace surround?

[wigglyworm]

hi we are buying a new home and the livingroom has a louis style fireplace (fancy white plaster) and laminate flooring.we plan to put a brown or black leather suite in and our tastes are quite modern.we can not afford to replace the surround but it is very prominent.i would appreciate any ideas on colours or styles to use.
it has a gas fire which is ok it is just the surround.
thanks

[carrust]

Try painting it matt-black or boxing it in,failing that you could take a lump hammer to it...I would !

[stevie-p]

There are some great spray paints on the market,i used a grey textured one,not a bad result either.