fireplace is on the wall in the middle of the room...help

throwbackmom

Hurricane sandy hit us hard and has allowed us to rethink the first floor.  I have a huge room with a beautiful fireplace in the center of the main wall. (or, I did)  I am finding solace as I sit at my computer in my hat and gloves trying to figure out what to do with this room.    I can't put a sofa in front of it because it blocks the view from the entry.  Any suggestions as to how we can  use this room better?   We have smaller kids and we want the room to be used. 

Thanks to all.  

PS the TV can't go over the fireplace!!

 

TarHeels&Rebels

Are you not willing to put anything in front of the fireplace?  Would a pair of chairs in front of it and a sofa facing the door work?  I'm not sure how you define/what you mean by "blocks the view from the entry," but I'd rather have a smart furniture arrangement than a view of the door. 

carlab44

Can you PIP a photo or diagram of the room? I'm having a hard time picturing it.

judy201

WOW!!! You were hit by the hurricane and having these thoughts in mind already??? I was hit by the hurricane as well and all I do is sit and cry!!!

toothpastechica

Can you not put a sofa/chairs on either side of the fireplace? That seems to be what all the designers and design shows do.....

http://www.houzz.com/photos/1267470/Jane-Lockhart-Interior-Design-traditional-living-room-toronto

http://www.houzz.com/photos/1729481/Funky-and-Fun-Living-Room-contemporary-living-room-san-francisco