We have painted the ceiling lights from brass to black as well, and we will most likely paint the fireplace surround with a heat tolerant charcoal colored paint. We are not interested in painting the brick.

I would do all across .

I agree with Patricia Colwell Consulting. A thick chunky wooden mantle the entire way across. I would also run it to the wall as a shelf on the left. And add another thick shelf above it, if desired. A beautiful fireplace, by the way. Love the brick.

You chose a great wall color to complement the brick!

Well we purchased a 10’ piece of ash. It’s got some character but not too rough. It will either be natural or stained a dark color. 10’ will be the entire length. My husband wants it to be 9’ and the shorter length.

Nice addition with the wall paint! I would definately go with all the way across and in a natural color.

Why do you want a mantel?

The room in MCM and mantles were not typically installed on those types of walls

About the window, I think what you have is fine but you might want to add a simple wood cornice:

Easy to make with instructions HERE

Or you could make one with some fabulous upholstery fabric

Also easy to make HERE

There are so many fabrics you could choose:

Oh such a great idea! I like both. My husband works with wood and my mother in law fabric so we could handle either! Thanks for fabric choices too!

So glad it has inspired you!

Here's a vague rendering on what it might look like.

Kelly I did something like that too, thanks! So even though everyone answered full length mantle… my husband totally wanted the shorter length and I really was undecided. It will be fine. I am great with plants and intended on putting a taller plant in the corner near the window.