Do we keep the traditional floor placement for a new gas insert or change to wall mount? We are planning to remove the brick unless someone has a good argument for keeping it. The brick on the floor is a horrible tripping hazard.

Tile or stone to surround the gas fireplace?

Should we keep the existing wood that goes up to the cathedral ceiling or should we extend the tile or stone all the way up. We want to do this ourselves so I am a little concerned about the installation because of the angle.

This is a post and beam mountain home. The wall opposite the hearth has horizontal pinewood paneling.