What about painting it the same color as the mantel? if you try cream or white, Id pull from one of the stones. You can always paint it black again if it looks dated in a few years.

i wonder if removing the mantel would help?

also- if budget allows,a light wood floor would really help lighten it up visually. The carpet does make it feel heavy.

If you are going to use the fireplace to provide heat, do not paint any part of it. Instead, invest in a screen for in front of it.

https://www.google.com/search?q=fireplace+screens&client=firefox-b-1-d&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiR4ciUqbTyAhWgElkFHQASAR8Q_AUoAnoECAEQBA&biw=1366&bih=615

Oh yes- i meant to add you absolutely need to use fireplace paint paint. it does exist, but is essential

Anything painted will, inevitably, need to be repainted. Black works for a fireplace insert. Any other color is going to make the fireplace more of a focal point. While there may be more heat friendly colors, there were only silver and black -- BBQ grill colors -- the last time I checked at the local big box store. Neither actually withstood heat and time / use very well.

I love the idea of using a screen, how would one look in front of the double doors to the insert? Or should I leave the doors open then put a screen in front?

There are other high heat paint colors online but not too broad of a selection. But my experience from BBQ painting it is only a temporary fix.

I Don't think you will find a high temperature paint in a lighter color that will not discolor from heat. When you see wood stoves in ivory they are typically made from porcelain coated cast iron, which can handle the heat. I used to sell them.

I say hide it with a screen.

To do this properly and maintain some functionality and convenience, I would use a Custom 3 Fold Fireplace Screen with doors like this.

Provided by: Hansen Wholesale Custom Fireplace Screens

Hansen Wholesale, that looks pretty good. I’m going to get my measurements and look around. I love that you actually provided a picture. Thank you for the tremendous help!

Let me know if you see any screens you like using the links I provided and I'll be happy to show you how they might look on your fireplace if I can.