Any tips how to improve?

I like your idea of taking the shelves out, centering the tv, and adding in shelves with any space left over to make it "balanced." Looks like your trim is white, so matching to existing features is not a bad idea. Sounds like you both had great ideas!

i second that that....

Definitely paint it white. If you are not happy then, I would think about removing the top section. We used to have the tv above the mantle but it was too high. We put art work in its place and moved the tv. It feels more balanced. And it is easier on the neck to view the tv. Here is a picture.

Replace the tile surround with lighter tile, too.

I would remove the shelves and center the TV and relocate the speaker and other electronics. I would do two console cabinets on each side of the fireplace to house the other electronics and paint everything white.

Taking out the shelves would probably be the best solution. If you want a bit of color, why not paint the inside to match a color in your room. Good luck with your project.

To me, the entire thing looks top heavy. If you end up adding a complimentary color with wood, tile, or metal in some way to the top part, You could possibly add the same item to the outside portion of the lower fireplace also to balance the look out. So this way you you are not having to match what you have there in you search for materials, but blends the to contrasting colors which is more soothing to the eye. You could leave the shelves there, center your TV on a mounting system that allows a small amount of room to put a sliding metal screen to cover the shelves. This would allow you to utilize the shelves for items that are for the TV while adding your own taste to the look of the the center piece of your home. To see what I mean, as far as metal, google pictures of decorative aluminum sheeting.

Remove the top shelves and place your tv elsewhere. When did tvs above nice fireplaces become a design element? Place art or a mirror above fireplace. I agree with all who said to paint mantle white. The new tile idea is a good one too.

I like your idea take them out put your t.v there but I think black paint and the edge around leave just stained to match fireplace below it...good luck dhall

I think it would look really nice distressed or whitewashed in white, remove shelves to center the tv and add mini barn doors to cover the tv. Of course a distressed look would have to match your current decor.

I think whitewashing it or painting white would be great. Yes, remove the shelving and recess the TV. You're on the right track!