Hi Jessica, here are some thoughts for you.

Option 1) a great mirror centered over FP. Nice and large with some interest in the frame and shape. Gold and grey go really well together. Don't be afraid of a large frame with lots of detail or wow factor. Then, find something for both ends of mantle, start with a pair...one on each end.... Something with some height, and color/contrast to the walls. It could be a vibrant color that picks up on other elements in the room, or it could be a cream color if that's your vibe. Next, find something low and interesting for the center.... It's ok and often preferred if it overlaps the bottom of the mirror. Maybe something sculptural.

Now you've got a great base. You can add something/s to either side.....but no more pairs.... Add a little a-symmetrical to the mix! And lower height than the pair.

Option 2). Find a painting with lots of interest and color....great frame w detail. Good large size. Add pair on both ends, making sure it's not too busy to compete with painting. Then proceed with adding one thing different to one end...lower in height.

This is a pretty good way to start. Once you become adept at layering and accessorizing, you can mix it up a bit more.

Enjoy!

Barbara Brown
Barbara Brown Interiors
Washington DC

Artwork creates a more lively vignette than other objects. I like the bowl and candelabra and find artwork to your taste and larger enough to cover most of the wall above the fireplace, about the same size as the firebox or slightly larger .

I always love artwork over a fireplace. Usually there's nothing beautiful for a mirror to reflect. Look for something that uses the accent colors you have in your room. Keep the accessories simple like the fireplace pictured above. Use light, bright colors for your accessories to stand out against your wall. You could use a white or lighter colored ceramic pot and keep your plant. You could then look for some taller, chunky candlesticks in a light color for the other side. Remember-everything looks better when paired in odd numbers.

I agree a nice piece of bright art work will be all you need . I would actually look for a landscape that gives the illusion of looking out a window

Upgrading the space with art above the TV is a great option. Digital Display is a beautiful and versatile way to take it to the next level. You can change it up to match your mood or décor, watch television, display family portraits, or even do live video feed of spectacular locations. In the picture below, the stunning framed art on the left of the fireplace is actually a TV. We mount TV's over any fireplace, program them for art display, and are experts at keeping it simple to use, seamless, and wire free.

I think you need something with more power than the clock. A larger, round, silver mirror. Or art like the above examples. Larger and lighter in value. That might be all you need! Sometimes a clear mantle ledge is perfect. Good luck :)