For some reason, inspiration images are not coming through. Let's try this...

Good question. I'm open to options. On one hand, it would be nice to have a bit more open space in that side of the room, but I think I'd rather keep a hearth of some sort because it makes a good spot to sit while tending the fire or even a little extra seating when we have people gathered in the living room. But I would want a clean and simple hearth.

It would look some kind of

Yep, I like that look a lot, with the center panel breaking up the expanse of stone, since our fireplace is so tall.

Laura, thanks for that link. I'm wondering how tough it would be to cover that brick on the side where it butts up to the framing for the loft (on the left side of the photo). I'll probably need to find a specialist in the area to give us a good assessment. I'd love it if we could do a stone veneer without the cement board over the brick, to cut down on how much more volume we have to add to the fireplace, since it's already a bit tight on that side of the room.

I had a similar situation (not as tall as your) and used a lime wash from valspar with amazing results.

That looks amazing, Sandra. Love that hearth!

Thanks Janetjafers, that’s soapstone.