*Cross posted in Fireplace forum as well* We're in the process of buying a house, and in it, the fireplace is just a gas insert with no surround or mantel, just an opening in the wall above the fireplace. We're wanting to cover the opening (well supported with additional boards) with ship lap and mount the tv there. I definitely want a nice mantel and to do a tile surround. But does it need a full surround that's a part of the mantel? I'm not having much luck in finding examples of just tile below the mantel. Attached is a listing photo. (We won't have such large/heavy furniture in the space)

Hire a local designer.

Thank you MSDG I don't know if I'm doing paneling work -- I need help designing the entire wall. The firebox cannot be moved because there is an egress window right next to it on the outside (basement). I'm not looking for the black/white look, I was showing the photo for the mantle style. What do you mean "Furred out portion around fire box?" Do you mean the marble before the wood post section? I can't decide if I should do a heart or not. I like it sometimes, but I need to figure out the entire wall to see what looks good together. I also like the look of a window seat, but I don't want it to look so casual like a kitchen bench. Do you think I should put a new window only on the right side of the fireplace? What are your thoughts on a bench seat underneath it? Thanks so much for your help!!

Will there be glare and sunlight issues from window above tv, it looks like it would be hard to watetv on bright day. How about no middle window and enlarge the two side windows?