Old brick fireplaces

[Sandy1]

We have a fireplace we want to add some new brick to. I expect it to be quite a project. My better half wants new brick. I prefer the look of old, aged, cracked and worn brick. Who is going to win. Which type do you prefer? Old or new?

 

[Blueb]

I would like the look of old brick but I would probably use new brick. I would think that the new brick would look "old" in no time when you had fires in the fireplace. I also think new brick would be safer.