Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Bulky, wooden fireplace

I am currently moving into a quaint, cute duplex. However, in the living room, one whole wall is occupied by a large fireplace that is made out of very dark, bulky wood that almost looks like the wood used to make telephone poles. Considering I'm renting the place, I don't want to do any major renovations to it. I'm looking for creative ways to re-do or cover up the wood (mainly the mantle and the sides) that are not too expensive. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.