paint it first. can you move the tv into the right space where those shelves are? Just get rid of those shelves on the upper right all together?

Just removing the shelves will make a huge difference. Here are three renderings in order of expense and chicness:

Agree with just removing the open shelving and have art objects as demonstrated by groveraxle.

There is a recess in the wall behind the tv that appears functional . .but you might remove the wood trim on the face and paint the back with the wall tone there. You can finish the sides . . with drywall corner bead / paint touch up when you patch the other walls. If you paint the doors the color of your trim, or go to a classic traditional casework color - black or charcoal could be great (do the bench at the same time though it might be best in white), You might add hardware . though the door layout is funky so you don't want to call attention to that . .

hang art on the right side

Thank you so much for the Renderings. They help tremendously. I'm going to ponder these options, and may come back for some more tips. I have thought of painting the door the wall color, would that look strange?