How to refurb 90's fireplace on the cheap?

[Ridingthecrestofawave]

Here it is. We're moving in 2-3 years but want to try and sort a bit of a makeover to update this room. Used more in winter. There's a bay window too.
How can I revive it / change it without too much effort?
Would it paint white? Can I remove the twiddle bits?
Any ideas please?

@Ridingthecrestofawave, I am I duly invested in your fireplace (it's on my threads I'm watching list) , how do you get on?

I had that exact fireplace in the 90s! I would sand it all down and chisel the decorative bits off then use filler to make it nice and smooth. Then paint it. I'm not a fan of the all one colour thing ie fireplace same as the wall. I quite like a lighter coloured fire surround, but I'd definitely replace the fire with something more modern, if it's a plug in electric one you can get those electric ones that look like a wood burner, but you'd have to open up the area to make room for it. Our current fireplace is very drab and uninspiring, I hate it!