The sash bars make it look more traditional. You don't have to style it like that though. If you create a black shelf with two big screen glass doors it looks completely different. You could also put the TV itself inside the fireplace. For me that's not an option because I don't like looking down on the TV. I prefere to lean back and look up. But if you're someone who preferes their TV close to the ground then consider it. And just think about how the fireplace channel will looks inside an actual fire place :)

Thank you. I definitely agree with your throw idea. I've been looking for a chunky knit but nothing has stood out yet. Any thoughts on what colour to paint it? Our splash back on the island in in front of the oven is grey.

Understand what you are saying, it is a built in fire model and not a free standing, so to build it in you would either have to box it in internallyor external brick work would need to to worked with. The easier choice,I think would be to box it in internally similar to the photo tyrian posted, or just to the height of the fire box with the flu exposed. Do you have a model number that can be googled for installation details or contact Lopi supplier for this to ensure safety.

The stained glass windows seem to be at odds with the exposed brick, but probably match the original part of the house. If the stained glass windows are giving privacy from an overlooking neighbour I would keep them, and work to make the brickwork more like the original part of the house, so it seems less incongruous. This could be done using a traditional wet plaster or solid plaster technique, which you would need to complete befor your gas insert fireplace is positioned. I would finish it of with a traditional timber fireplace surround and mantle piece, which would be the focal point of a more contemporary room, but link in with the original architecture. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls