Have you thought about removing the fireplace to open up the space? This room would look fantastic if the kitchen were open to the living area. It would also make the kitchen look larger and give you the opportunity to add an island. I can't see the wall opposite the fireplace but it seems like it would work better there.

Alot of possibilities! Not knowing the total layout, I see no reason you could not mount a big flat-screen over the fireplace. I would think about adding a mantle/ ledge above the fireplace also (betw tv and fp) to add to the overall composition. Have fun!

First off I would like to tell you that you have a really beautiful house. Second of all the t.v is one of the main problems, did you consider buying a new t.v? If it is not in the budget or you are not considering it I totally understand and I think you should put the t.v just either beside the fireplace with a twist to expand your living room. Your l-shaped couch can fit perfectly in front of the fireplace and the t.v. I know it sounds different but in the space you have pictured will make it possible. I think that you should place the t.v beside the fireplace also because it will make the living area complete and comfortable.

If you however choose to buy a flat screen, then it will be easy to mount on top of the fire place.

Good luck!

Maria

Thanks to everyone for the great comments.

Movenready...the kitchen does have an island. I agree that opening up the kitchen by moving the fireplace would look great, but it's a little more than we are able to do right now.

I think the tv above the fireplace might be the way to go.We have another room that could be the family room (picture below), that I am considering putting the tv in, but we would like to spend more time in the fireplace area, and use the family room as a study/library.

It's a beautiful space. Have fun!

I think it's fantastic as it is, layout wise. I think taking out the fireplace will be a bigger headache than you think, especially if furnace pipes run thought it and all your kitchen mechanicals. You have really good flow and you'll be able to hear everything going on in fireplace room with a little privacy from a busy (and if like me, contstantly needing to be clean) kitchen. I like the other room you mentioned as a study as well, away from distractions but likely within help of mom and dad for homework. Good luck!

On second thought, I'm going to try to avoid the tv about the fireplace. I like the idea of painting the brick white, or whitewashing it, with maybe a hand hewn beam for a mantel.