Based on the photo you shared of the porch under construction, it looks like the beams were wrapped with fiber cement boards before the brick was finished. That is a common way to finish a beam. Brick could be installed with a steel lentil, but I can't say that I have seen that in a situation like this before. Generally the beam is painted the same color as the soffit, but you could do something different if you prefer. Mark is correct that you should check the construction documents to see if this was built according to the plans.

I like the window seat idea. Be sure to design it with storage for shoes, boots, mittens and other front door needs. Is there a coat closet? You may be able to add a closet on the wall opposite the entry door as part of the window seat design. You’d have to remove the shelves. I love the living room setup. Nice place. P.S. the shelves are attached, but can be removed. Don’t limit yourself because of those shelves. P.P.S. ignore anyone who treat you as though the question is not valid. It is. You are. Your house is beautiful.

Your first photo is typical of how one must arrange a narrow room. A chair could be placed on either side of the fireplace, but the center of the room needs to stay open. Put an etegere in the corner where the chair is sitting. If you want to use this room for dining, put ONLY a dining table and chairs here. Your second photo shows that a dining table with a sofa makes for a cramped space that is no longer easy to walk through. How wide is this room from window wall to fireplace wall—10, maybe 11 ft? Sofas and chairs are around 3 feet deep. Their width starts around 25 inches, but arms can add 6 to 12 inches extra to the 20 inch average cushion size. Always take a tape measure with you when furniture shopping to make sure the piece will fit where you want it. Your description makes me think this room is seldom used. Perhaps 2 chairs facing each other in front of the fireplace with a small coffee table or ottoman between them. Place a chaise in front of the window. This might cause the path to meander just enough to avoid a bowling alley feel. For more possibilities, draw a floor plan where 1 ft equals 1 inch on paper, and place doors, windows and fireplace as accurately as possible. On a separate sheet of paper draw the outlines of furniture you want to place in this room. Label each piece and cut them out. Set them on the floor plan and move them around until you are happy with the placement. HERE is a site that offers a printable room grid and furniture pieces.

Put an entry station with a table, mirror and lamp to set down keys, purse, wallet, change, etc. Also get an entry unit with a bench, hooks for coats, cubbies for family members at the top and bottom. Depending on where you live, you may have quite a mess of salt, snow, mud, water, etc. Therefore, be sure to make this area as waterproof and easy to clean as possible. If you still have more room after that, develop a sitting area with a lamp for a mini library, desk and chair for an office, music area, or extra storage.