Yes I agree with you - that does look better... I’m not I love with them- bought at Goodwill for the large canvases- $15 for both and have plans to update it... you’re right tho, I kind of got used to it

if you want to spend more money, you could have a symmetrical bookcase type wall unit built on both sides of the fireplace, maybe with a bridge over it, that would completely block out the window on the left. Leave a large space for a mirror above the fireplace. if you went this route I'd do it in a color to match the wall or similar light color. It looks like you have other windows off to the right side. You might have to add a little more lighting at that end of the room to make up for lost of the window. A cheaper solution would be to put drapery completely covering the window on the left and a matching one on the right side of the fireplace just covering the wall but the whole thing in a symmetrical arrangement. you could have the drapery rods at the same level as that uncased opening on the right.

First, that is likely a STONE veneer on the wall. If you don't like it you have to remove it. Or you could paint it. You can also remove part of the stone and add a timber mantel to the FP Here are the steps to get the stone off and the surround installed.

Hi Beth - I’m posting just to keep this current in hopes a pro will help you. As an observer, I find a discrepancy between your mantle and surround (traditional) with the vibe of the wood in the walls. The mantle/surround’s proportions and style seem off and maybe it’s part of what’s making it difficult for you. At first glance, I’d remove it, but that’s just my 2 cents.