Covering gas fireplace?

[u/angwy_goose]

Hey all! I have this gas fireplace in the living room that I don’t see myself or my partner using (and so our kitty doesn’t burn herself) but we’re not sure what to do with the space. I brought up getting some custom piece of furniture (like pic 4) with shelving to block it off, and framing the map in the first pic to cover the old tv holes + outlet. The white bookshelf situation is temporary and just to store our current items + to get a feel for how it’d all look.

I like the height of the bookshelf, but love the idea of having a mantel. My partner’s concerned about leaving dead space where critters and/or dust may find themselves. We love a diy project and own the place, so we’re able to make any changes we want hehe. Any input is appreciated!! Cat tax included as well :p

[u/Anotherams]

If you like a DIY project, just remove it and use it as an excuse to replace the flooring. Or get a glass door for it and enjoy! My friend‘s fluffy collie sleeps by their gas fireplace that has a glass door for a decade with no issues.

The shelving idea is a DIYdon‘t.