I think the darker coloured tile will look better, especially taking into consideration what you are thinking as a wall colour. I think it might be more practical in terms of hiding dirt as well.

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A pro can do it in no time. If you are planning on a new hearth now is the time to do it. Most period fireplaces had a hearth that was flush with the floor and likely a replacement would sit on that so the fireplace would need to be raised an inch or so.

Bear in mind that once you tile it’s permanent so don’t do floor to ceiling as that will leave half the height for emulsion giving you the option to change the colour for a refresh. Behind the basin needs tiling as do shower cubicles or a layer above the bath as a seal. Other to that it’s your choice. You could tile up to window height all around allowing for emulsion? Also take into account the option of wall board instead of tiles which is much easier to keep clean.