Check with your local brick supplier. Most of them sell a thin brick that goes on just like tile (just use a tile mastic adhesive). It doesn't make near the mess as using using full size brick so it works well in existing spaces. A word of caution: The brick tiles do cost significantly more than full size bricks. Here is a pic of a similar product and some pictures from a basement we just completed that used the tile brick as a fireplace surround and an accent wall in the kitchenette.

I think a comfortable distance between the island and the counter is around 42". It seems that you have only 30" between your cook top and the counter. I might be a little too tight. The wall between the entrance and the kitchen could be 4' long instead of 6', you would then be able to move the island a foot which would give you more room between the cook top and the island. Could you switch the location of the toilet and vanity in your dad's bathroom so your enter facing a vanity instead of a toilet which is a lot nicer.

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I like the room but it looks a bit empty. Possibly some contemporary low interesting cabinet on either side of the fireplace some organic baskets or metal vessels of some sort on top of the cabinets. It will fill in the bareness between cabinet and sconces. Roll down textured shades at the windows would add a nice fill in touch and add privacy and block light. Or simple linen floor to ceiling curtains on rods at ceiling height. Here are three rooms with free standing cabinets and long curtains at the windows. You might like these ideas for not. Art work could be under the scones with lamp for ambient lighting Again simeple cabinets and surprise, a TV stand too. This is a lovely idea too with the twigs; could change seasonally. I like the benches for warmth and texture and softness and the chandelier adds a dramatic touch. Good luck with your lovely room!