Are you open to painting the bookshelves and brick the same wall color and then add a mantle to balance out the bookshelves?

I would take it out all together and then decide if you want something in the space or not. If I put anything back in I would make it a built in pretty bookcase that looks like finished furniture with a cabinet on the base and shelves above. I would tile the front of the fireplace and add a stone hearth that matches your style and taste.

I checked your idea book but didn’t see any fireplace photos. I love the other living room ideas you have though. These are along the same lines.

I really like the first image. My ceiling height is only 8' I wonder if I could get away with "fake" partially exposed ceiling beams to create a more dynamic ceiling space. Also, do you have any suggestions that don't involve ripping out the old setup? I'm afraid to look at the cost to remove this as an option...

The only thing you would need to take out is the old wood shelf unit. You can dry wall over the brick, paint the brick, or have new tile installed over it. If your ceiling is only 8’ tall the faux beams may not not an option unless you don’t mind the ceiling feeling lower. This is going to be such a huge transformation for this space. I’m excited for you.

The ceiling you could even just add 1x6 in a dynamic pattern which wouldn’t drop the ceiling but still would add interest.