First of all congrats on your place, it's beautiful! So here is what I think for your fireplace dilemma: First of all, I defiantly think you should consider painting the mantle to match the woodwork. It will add consistency and really pull things together regardless of which tile you choose. As far as the tile goes: The white would be great if you were going for a calming look, the grey as well (because they are both close to the woodwork color/paint color), but I need to know what your plans are in terms of accessories, wall art or other furniture.

Kimberly, I don't know yet! All we have is the two sofas and not much else decor. We will build it up over the next few months. I'm new to the decor world so I don't know if I have a "style" yet. I will however attach a few pics of rooms that inspire me.

I like the white, second choice gray.

white

What is your hearth? You may need the plank at minimum for the hearth. What is the black material now? Must agree that you should paint, and then I think you may want to go look at marble subway tile you can herringbone . . .your place appears to be headed traditional so choose a beautiful stone subway in a neutral but use a great pattern.

Maybe you could put a water wall above that fireplace? They will create that relaxing environment you are looking for. Plus they are pleasing to the eye. A water wall will also help clean the air by attracting dust particles. For more pics/ideas see http://www.LuxeWaterWalls.com

A lot of you have already seen this house but I have yet another question! Let's say, hypothetically, that I wanted to paint the dining room, coffered ceiling and the back of the bookshelves (latter two are in the living room) the same color. Let's also say there wasn't a lot of time to try a lot of shades and evaluate them during different times of the day, etc etc. Does anyone have a neutral color in the light blue-light green family that could be used ? I want a calm color they won't overpower the room but will add some dimension. Pics of all areas included.

Now that I see what you are going for, I think the more simple you go the better. I agree with Joseph, the zig zag pattern from the colored glass tile would't coordinate enough with the look you are going for. I am leaning towards the white, and like the light wood tile as well. (With a white mantle, of course). Before you pick anything else after your tile, I think you should start aiming your sights upon a rug, a piece of wall art or some sort of pattern/photo/art that inspires you. Then you can pull colors from that and finish off your room.

About the dining room: Paint the coffered ceiling the same color as the woodwork throughout the house. A good light blue or gray? Try

Wall art like one of these would look great above your fireplace: