Architecture and interior design thread

My ugly fireplace....

Things to note:

1. Its a fairly dark room with lowish cellings
   
2. Other half hates the marble (I don't mind some, just not the double whammy hearth + inset)
   
3. Floor may well be changed to a lighter colour.
   
   

Taking a step back, I'm wondering about reducing its overall size.

Open to suggestions.