The biggest problem is the scale and balance is off on that wall. You can always cover the brick with tile, marble, granite etc. But the scale will still be off. You need to take into consideration fire code as elkinmeg has pointed out as well. Personally, I'd do something to the wall that the television is mounted on. Perhaps build out shelves, entertainment unit, something in equal scale to the fireplace, perhaps make the mantle a sleek design that would run the whole width of the wall. The room needs balance, the off center fireplace has to be balanced on the other side. Just my opinion.

I really like those taller, wider mantles posted by hilltop! Here's a picture of our in-progress fireplace redo - please excuse all the construction mess and cr*p on and around the fireplace. We're in the middle of installing our hardwood floors and everything's a mess (my pool table is in my kitchen!). This will NOT be our mantle decor, no matter how much my DH might like to display his collection of knick knacks there! I was planning on posting before and after pictures once we install the hearth (or to get ideas for a hearth) but thought you might like to consider an antique beam like the one we used for a mantle. They come in all sizes and widths. I think our mantle is relatively high in proportion to the firebox, but we were limited by the existing heading, which we did not want to rebuild.

Do you have a measured layout? Without measurements, we cannot really come up with something other than guesses. I tried to use the stated dimensions on the plan, but they didn't make sense when comparing them to the items on the drawing. Can you get into the house to get accurate measurements of the space? The following link will help as well - it describes what we need to help you get the best layout How do I ask for Layout Help and what information should I include? http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/2767033/how-do-i-ask-for-layout-help-and-what-information-should-i-include .

I would take off the indent above the fireplace, replace the mantle with the same size piece of wood, and update the tiles. Gut the area where the TV is now and have a custom cabinet, flush with the fireplace wall, with an open shelve for the TV just a few inches lower than what it is now. Below the TV two wide drawers, one about 5 or 6 inches deep and the other about 11 or 12. Above the TV, two cupboards.