We need to see the fireplace in the context of the room. Is this on a larger wall or shoved in a niche?

I think the black side of it is what is really throwing it off for me. Can you paint that the same color as the wall?

It looks like someone spent too much time on Houzz and HGTV and decided to modernize a traditional fireplace by removing the surround. The wall looks like it's been the victim of some DIY. If you know any neighbors with a similar home, you might be able to see what it used to look like.

Nope. It’s exactly as it was from the day it was built in 1980 😀

Kendra’s do you mean just painting the wall black? I can totally do that

What is your decorating style? Is the fireplace wood burning or gas logs, and will it be used?

It is the hearth that is weird and so what is your FP wood or gas or what. Also I agree we need pics of the whole space and in much better lighting too.

So there has never been a mantle or any kind of trim?

It is a wood burner to answer one of the questions. See the firewood, butane lighter, fireplace tools on the hearth?

Honestly, it's a little off but should be pretty easy to balance the large hearth and add some interest to the wall. There have been some really strange fireplaces posted here, that one wouldn't even crack the top ten.

Definitely post some more pictures of the room, especially a wide view that includes the fireplace and what is around it.

Create a fireplace surround that ties in with the black hearth.

Still need photos of the rest of the room to see what your style is. A fireplace is less than a fourth of a room unless you have no other walls!

Thanks to everyone that posted suggestions. I lost a close friend so haven’t checked in. I also don’t know how to respond to individual people in here.
Patricia Colwell Consulting, you know you don’t have to answer a question, right?? How unbelievably rude and nasty you are- gross 🤮you know what also doesn’t happen in a vacuum- life.
For those asking, yes, It is a wood burning fireplace. It’s in a weird place. That’s the only thing on this wall. I will take additional pics tomorrow. Just got back from the service and it’s been a long day.

Many of us wish the rude "pros" would move on. They've changed this place to great detriment.

I'm so sorry for your loss, Michelle.

I like the ideas posted by Emily. Do you think adding a black surround of some type would work for you?

The fireplace itself is an easy fix and there are a few options, but the easiest/cheapest is painting everything the same color (and even adding a mantle if that suits your look). Once you accessorize, it will feel more balanced as well.

Look on line for inspiration and that meet needs: your style, home and especially the room‘s character, and budget.

If budget allows and you prefer a more modern look, tile everything.

I think the hearth though is overpowering and if willing to remove/add floor tile, cover over, or refinish to achieve a cohesive feel, there are many options and be sure to address in its entirety to achieve a finished look. One idea is using venetian plaster; it’s not expensive and is a great look. If interested, search specifically; it suits many styles depending on application and rest of the choices.

Hearth removed:

Hearth incorporated:

A fireplace is part of the ‘whole home’ (not just ‘room’) aesthetic. I suggest posting a picture of your kitchen and your exterior and then we can tell you what the fireplace should be.

I am in the throes of construction and Christmas decorating. The plastic around the doorway, leads to the entry/foyer of our house. Thanks so much for all of the beautiful suggestions. I hate the hearth. It’s big and bulky. I’ve considered breaking it up but the fireplace would be about a foot in the air! 😫

You can take out the hearth and tile around (and under) and go to the ceiling.....you don't need to have a mantel.

Before you tear out the hearth, take stock of the flooring situation. Your wood floor may run underneath or it may not. If it doesn't you'll have to figure out what to do with the empty spot.

I'd first try a big piece of bossy art at eye level above the fireplace opening. Something with some dark colors. Hopefully, it will take the eye away from the bulky hearth and balance the wall. Then you won't need to make structural changes.

You could have a friend hold the one above your desk over the fireplace to see if art helps the space.

I'm sorry about your friend.

Your fireplace would look great with a surround like this one. I found it on Pinterest from Plank and Pillow, which they built themselves. It would make your fireplace a focal point. I like your hearth and don't feel like it's too big. It doesn't appear to be in the way of having a good floor layout. Good luck with your construction and prep for Christmas.

We had a raised Hearth on our fireplace (now an insert) also but didn't like how big it was. We removed it when we replaced our brick surround with cast stone and ran a matching piece underneath and on the floor. Not as nice as a fireplace to the floor but much less obtrusive than what was there.