Hi, just closed on a new home that will need a complete remodel. I'm struggling with the family room because we'll be removing the very '80s bar and hopefully opening up that wall to the hallway more. Once done, the fireplace won't be centered in the room. (The railing you see in the photo separates this room from another stepped down living space that looks out to the pool.) I do not want a tv above the fireplace and given there are only 33" between the fireplace and the railing/next room, any wall there won't be a good place for a sofa as it will sit partially in front of the fireplace. I'm contemplating a center wall in place of the railing, with openings on either side, or would a single wall with one

large doorway be better? We want a lot of glass in the other room so I don't want to block too much. I also contemplated the tv to the right of the fireplace, raising the window up there, but am not sure I'm a fan of that either. Any suggestions or ideas are greatly appreciated. I've attached photos of the current. (Also curious who would keep the paneling and just paint it or would take it out completely.) Thanks!