Some fireplaces are deserving of being called a monstrosity. Our old one certainly was. Bellsmom on the kitchen forum enhanced the monster so you can see it better: I begrudged it taking nearly 4' of depth for most of the width of the room to support its tiny firebox. We considered putting the TV over the fireplace in the remodel, but we wanted wood burning and the low emissions fireplaces are all quite tall. Also, I didn't feel it would be comfortable for me that high and the hood might block some of the viewing area from the kitchen. Post remodel we have a tamed fireplace, definitely not a monstrosity: The new fireplace takes just a small bit at one side of the wall leaving the center to our - horror of horrors! - 60" flat screen TV. We like the size because it makes it easier to read the screen when using it as an internet browser. The large size is also very nice when viewing from the kitchen which is over 20' from the screen: The new fireplace is an EPA Phase II wood burning fireplace. It runs efficiently and produces minimal particulates. Convection air flow around the firebox heats the room nicely and the intake air control allows control of how quickly the fuel burns. We live in an area with cool winters - enough that the additional warmth in the evening is nice since we usually keep our thermostats low. It heats the family room and kitchen nicely and the room is still comfy in the morning. Because it is EPA phase II, it's legal to use on most "No Burn" days. So far we haven't had to buy wood. Our yard and tree trimmers of neighbor's trees have supplied enough.

I rarely turn our TV(s) on and don't like to see them when not in use. Great room television is hidden behind custom sliding panels ( two go left, one right). DVD player, TV equipment, etc is in niche with shutter door. MBR TV is in an antique armoire that was in LR of our last home. It also holds sweaters and extra bedding. Main level guest room. Lower level guest room. We do have a large flat screen that is not enclosed in the lower level den. I don't have a photograph to share but it's on a pine chest. This post was edited by allison0704 on Fri, Jun 13, 14 at 19:46

As far as I can see, there is nothing wrong w/ existing fireplace. If you are going to put tv over fireplace, I recommend this mount. There is a motorized version, also. https://www.dynamicmounting.com/product/down-and-out-manual-mount/

funkyart - thank you, big grin on this end! arapaho - The idea of switching art.... is really satisfying! Yes, the heater is a gas stove and there is an electrical outlet. We also have an outlet behind the TV. Glad to talk through logistics for wiring the Samsung One Connect box behind the TV - I have pictures. marie_cate - thank you, we are! I enjoy the art so much I am loathe to switch over to TV :)