Is it real, or just one of those fake fireplace heaters? It's got to be one of the strangest things I've seen. I'd remove it either way.

LOL ~ I agree it is odd how the builder installed this. However, it is a working gas fireplace so removing it is not an option for client.

It is strange. Can you get rid of the window over the fireplace? Then redo the fireplace with tile & build a new mantle.

Is it possible to increase the width by adding framing to the sides and building a mantle on it as well? The aim would be to make it wider than the window above it. I also wondering about increasing the size of the baseboard - it seems very minimal for the size of the room.

Hi Ferguson ~ That is an option I have considered however the client has two matching consoles that do fit in the 4ft space. They are higher than the side windows on either side, even so... I have considered centering them under the windows which would leave space for extending out a fireplace shelve/mantle.

I have ideas but I thought it would be fun to see what others come up with since it's not an easy fix. These are on an upper story so not easy to adjust either the fireplace or window and it would be a costly remodel.

I guess you refer to it as 'adding character to the house.'

Nope, no character yet, but it will have when I'm done with it. As a designer who had to design 40 fireplace fronts to code for a fireplace showroom I know I'll come up with something that will work a whole lot better than what it looks like now.