Is this what the ceiling looks like? What's your budget?

Yes it is. I am open with budget. i just want this re-done. This is the first thing you see when you walk inside my home.

Have you ever thought of a beam ceiling or is that not your thing? What style is your house?

First thought, beams.

Beams would be nice in the room. id love to start with the fireplace.

Tell us more about your design aesthetic. Do you want a modern look? Traditional? Rustic? We can suggest lots of ideas that you will hate because it's not your style. Any inspiration photos?

The fireplace will impact placement of beams if that is what you want now or in the future. You need to get a vision to work towards in the design of this fireplace. A floor plan with measurements would be helpful as well.

Agree with @Paul F. but to get started remove the mantle it is odd looking and also remove the chair rail.

Agree with Paul F great idea with the beams

i love the idea of the beams. Our home is traditiinal cobbled brick home. Modern farmhouse style on inside.

I love this as inspiration but i woukd thjnk the fireplace would need to be a bigger statement.

tumbled brick. not cobbled.

For now, get rid of the mantle and put a nice, colorful picture above the fireplace. Then, do a full room plan, that includes the fireplace, furnishings, perhaps beams (love the idea!), window treatments, rugs, etc. If you just do the fireplace now without a plan, it will become the boss in the room and all of your other design decisions will have to follow...