I'd like to reface the fireplace for my parents at their house with Stone or possibly tile. Its a floor to ceiling wood burning brick fireplace (no insert). I plan to reshape the look of the fireplace and by doing so I plan to use plywood some 2x4's and anywhere near the opening I'd assume I would have to use DurRock. My issue is...what do I do about the edging around the opening of the fireplace that will show the DurRock??? What would you recommend (strip of 1x1 tile???)

Paul

Check fire codes before building/ framing.
Last time I hung drywall in a room w/ a fireplace it had to be two layers 5/8ths taped and caulked around the brick and the entire ceiling of the room it was in.

Tile and Durock you would think would have a high fire rating but not something you want to be guessing at. You don't want to screw up their insurance.

Maybe building out with mortar over the brick would work?

I'll leave it to someone else to advise you from here.

I agree with Aaron, putting plywood anywhere near a fire place could be a big mistake. I think that you are out of the realm of DIY and need to look for professional help. If you still want to re-shape it yourself, use cinder blocks and mortar, or bricks.