How about art above the mantle? Or hang the mirror horizontally to make a wider statement. Add detail that is asymmetrical on the mantle. Look to make negative and positive space work for the mantle. Consider what is on either side of the fireplace and create symmetry or asymmetry to work with the arts and crafts style fireplace...with a beautiful screen and firebox.

That fireplace is DREAMY!! Oh my goodness - it's oozing charm. I agree with Darzy...clean it up a bit, get rid of the soot staining. Are your walls in this room paneled? One thing to consider is to paint the brick of the fireplace the same color as the walls - if you're repainting, especially - and then glaze it a bit to restore the brick effect, if you like (or you could leave it nicely painted - even in a high gloss).

The fireplace needs to be cleaned and I would give some consideration to painting it. You should lso consider using a tile surround. Also, the mirror is out of proportion. It needs to be much larger or use something different - artwork, flatscreen, etc.

ideas

Darzy & everyone thanks for your suggestions. I'm going to start with cleaning it . I think painting the mantel black will be next. So glad everyone can see it's charm. Very small space added another photo if you have any more good thoughts

It's a lovely fireplace and tho I would clean it up, the soot does add to the charm! Great screen too. But PLEASE do not paint that mantle black, esp flat black. It would totally take away from the style. Don't mean to offend anyone but that would just look wrong. I would leave it the way it is even if you decide to paint the brick, which if you did I would do in a semi gloss white. Good luck!

I think your fireplace is lovely! It's beauty really is in the simplicity IMO. It would be a bit of a shame to me to paint it. Cleaning as you know will be the best start. Then maybe replace the mirror with some bold artwork - preferably something almost as wide as the mantle. Find something with colors that really draw the eye.

Right now it may look boring to you because it looks a little tired. It just needs a new outfit!

I love the arched top on your fireplace opening. Once it's cleaned up, I'd place a vertical painting or mirror above it to continue the vertical line of the fireplace opening.