What about mosaic tile? Lots of colors, styles, sizes, and finishes to choose from. You can also mix tiles or keep it simple and uniform - whatever you prefer! This fireplace was done in a single color of iridescent tiles, very sleek and modern! (other colors available!)

You have a great opportunity here. I do not recommend placing a tv over a fireplace. Yes, we see it often, but it is not practical for two reasons: 1, the tv has to be placed too high and 2, it is hard on the eyes to be looking at the fireplace light and the tv What I would do is to remove the plaster and re-expose the brick. You could paint it an interesting color or resurface it. Then, I would add a unique mantle.If you have the funds, ideally the threshold should be removed (more contemporary) or resurfaced (more traditional style) The wood store could be a book shelf or display shelf. In the right corner, I would place a comfortable reading chair. The TV I would place on a different wall. Without seeing the entire room, I am not sure where.

Might I suggest a more contemporary picture frame mantel with mosaic stone tile between that and your firebox? Love the near craftsman window shapes flanking the fire wall . . . use the height on both sides, / shallow shelves on one side can visually frame a swing arm for your television and give real storage on the other side.

Try the TV where the sofa is now and float the sofa perpendicular to the fireplace where you currently have the big chair. Perhaps the big chair can then go where the TV was for a quiet spot for one. Or even better, pull the loveseat off the wall and put the big chair to its left flanking the fireplace.