No mantel above a wood stove and there are a lot of more attractive wood stoves that also function better .I like the wall but it needs a good cleaning and that hearth needs to be changed to something that works with the wall. It also would be nice to see the rest of the space and also more info as to how the space will be used.

I take possession on August 12th so this was the only photo I had....screen shot from the listing. I’ll be living here for the next two years while I build on the property. This is the living room of the cottage. Great idea on changing the hearth. Is it unreasonable to raise it so you can sit with your back to the fire? That’s what I currently do in front of my fireplace.

Clean the wall. The stone looks good. If you see soot, you have a leak.

I actually like the funky pattern of the gray stone. I would keep it. Get a pro to inspect the whole thing. Maybe you should spend the money on a new more efficient stove. Don’t forget about the chimney

Good idea on having it inspected. I’ve never dealt with a wood stove before. My only experience is with fireplaces

I definitely will give that brick wall a good clean. And investigate why there is so much soot on the wall to begin with. I think some money spent on making the cottage more of a home won't be wasted because after I have moved on it will be a rental home/guest cottage. Any other suggestions are very welcome....I love a challenge.