Hi! I would leave it as it is - paint the mantel/shelf white to match the built-in and add some art above it.

I would paint it grey, that will provide a nice contracts and make the mantle white. it will be modern and fresh, if you google your will see a few examples but something like this would be nice i think

You could always give it a lime wash or smear it.

I don't know the rest of your esthetic but I would paint all the brick charcoal and leave the shelving white to create a dramatic focal point.

Painting brick -- not the best idea! Moisture gets trapped inside the wall and can deteriorate your masonry prematurely. Here's more information: http://www.masonryofdenver.com/2014/08/painted-brick/

Limewash or masonry staining are a much better tactic for changing the color of your brick without inadvertently causing damage. Keep that fresh new brick happy and dry. Best of luck with your new home, it's off to a wonderful start!

I wasnt even aware of masonry staining. I will look into that.

Thank you everyone for all the great ideas. I really appreciate it!

Bricks Inc. Do you know of a company in Orange County who stains bricks? Im nervous to do it myself.

Maybe

What is this room ? Living , dining , a large kitchen ? You mention the kitchen ..and the blue counter ...is it part of this room ?

I was not thinking of adding glass doors. Havent seen pictures of that

the fireplace is in the living room. The kitchen is next to it and divided by a 8ft wall. You can see into into the kitchen from part of the living room

I agree with REDinterior. Here's how it might look in charcoal with glass doors on the fireplace. The finish on the doors can be made to match other materials in the room. I used satin nickel in this case because it looks great with the charcoal finish, but black, brass and bronze work well too depending on the lighting fixtures and other hardware used in the space.