We just had our gas fireplace replaced with a much larger unit, now the new fireplace needs to be built in and the brick will be covered. I need some help with ideas,as I do not want a stone/tile surround. I would like to have stone on the hearth only. There is room for a beefy mantle...any suggestions or photos would be a huge help. Please keep in mind that is will be a DIY project.

The first photo is the before and the second is the after