I agree with you it is a win-win because you will get a fireplace that you will be able to hang stockings on and it’ll make your ceilings look taller and brick Is pretty well pricedSo it is more budget friendly:)

Brick to the ceiling and add a mantle. I don't think I'd go to the expense of changing the material. I think painted brick seems appropriate here.

Curious why is the wall is painted white at that height?

The white is ceiling. The brick is 6’ high with an 8’ high ceiling

We agree, brick to the ceiling and add a mantle. It will be really nice once it is done.

Hi there, agree with going to the ceiling, just wanted to add you may want to check with your insurance company first regarding a mantle, especially if using a combustible material like wood. They are usually pretty fussy about not having combustible material behind / over a wood burning stove for obvious reasons.

My husband has been in the insurance business for 17 years. Trust me, he will definitely keep me out of any liability issues.