We were in the same dilemma recently. We opted a pre-made hearth to match the fire and a complete contrast to the floor. Hope you find a solution.

Hi Georgia, The brick is quite dominant. You could paint out the 2 small side walls to match the rest of the walls in the room. The main fire place you could do the flooring; up to the mantel height you could either leave the brick as is as maybe white wash it to make it less dark, or you can clad it with a tile of stone. Replace the mantle timber wish something that is the full width of the fire place so that it creates a separation point. Paint the brick above the mantle either the same colour as the rest of the room or something complementary. There is always the option of plasterboard so you don't have as much texture visible. Let me know if you need more help. MKG

hi there, do you have any photos of the existing space?

is there any space to lower the floor without compromising new flooring or height of cooker or could you have an oven in a different location and install only the cooktop in the chimney? ...years ago we were able to install an industrial strength exhaust fan inside a chimney without a range hood but discuss with your electrician before assuming modern standards ... i would prefer the cooker in a different location as the chimney is uncomfortable to work at, difficult to clean and install electrical wiring and subject to invasion by possums