Hi, I'm starting to think about redecorating my living room and wanted to come here for advice. I especially need help with ideas for the fireplace. Pardon the mess - we have a baby, two dogs, and two cats.

Here are my initial thoughts:

1) Install a wide, dark wood mantel and posts.

2) White wash the brick (I know, I know!, but come on what else can I do with that giant expanse of brick?).

3) Mount the TV on the wall on a swing out arm, so that it can be swung out of the way when not in use.

4) Paint the walls a light, cool color. We have behr planetary silver in the kitchen. Whatever color we use for the main part of this room will carry up to the upstairs hallways so I want it to be light.

5) Install drapes on either side of the big window, which will also help conceal the TV and wires when entering.

6) Slipcover the sofa (color, pattern?) - thinking maybe a very pale blue. We have blue accents in the kitchen, with whitish granite and walnut cabinets. The sitting room through the french doors though is warm-toned with the same wall color but on rice paper. We are not touching that room now.

7) Replace art with more size appropriate pieces.

8) Replace the rug.

This room is mostly used for our family to watch TV / relax. We will use the fireplace but may convert to gas logs.

We like comfort and the ability to withstand our messes. I've learned about hygge and think that this concept could go a long way to describing what we want in this room. We also want some style because it is the first room guests see when they enter our home.

Any thoughts on my proposed changes or making this a more comfortable room to hang out in with my family?

Edited to add dimensions: 17 ft wide by 18 ft long to front of brick step

Pictures:

North wall:

East wall (front of home)

South wall: opening to left goes to front door / stairs to second story; opening to right goes to kitchen.

West wall: french doors go to large sitting room.