If you paint the hearth, choose a color that tones in with or matches the floor. I painted (color washed, really) the brick fireplace wall in our previous basement with the neutral off-white wall color. I took some hideous vinyl tile off the concrete floor, painted the floor chocolate brown, and painted the raised brick hearth black...I used flat black for the first coat, and then went over only the surface of the bricks with satin finish...looked more natural to have flat finish on the mortar. I often recommend that technique for any color of painted brick.

Is there a question?

Don't touch it. It's lovely, warm and classic. The mantle is a nice size and well balanced. Don't chase trends and go all-white. Instead, "dress it". It's a large space, so you need a good bit to "fill it up". Look at mantle styling on Pinterest and see what appeals to you ... mirror? candles? greenery? seasonal decorations? Put something on the hearth too ... some pillows? tall candle stands? a basket for kindling or blankets? The only thing I'd insist upon is that since this is a lot of dark, you ought to use either a mirror or light-toned decorations ... but don't go too extreme in that direction.

Looks fabulous. What a nice gift!