You wouldn't have to take the paneling to the ceiling. Could make the side pieces and the section below the mantel smaller.
Q
Arched opening, more formal than I would want.
A little formal but I like the detail on the sides of arch.
Arched opening
Brick with wood mantel
Arched brick with wood mantel.
You wouldn't have to take the paneling to the ceiling. Could make the side pieces and the section below the mantel smaller.
Q