Your right this space could be really cute I would add some nice colored pillows to the benches and candles or vases to the mantle it needs something to draw the eye up.can't wait to see what you do good luck!

You could use some contrasts. I like the dark benches. You could buy some Gel Stain and make the mantel the same dark color. I would recover the bench cushions with color. If you don't have a color scheme as of yet, use a poppy red or rust with patterned pillows.Adding greens and/or floral arrangement on the mantel along with family photos would give it a personal touch. Is there room for an area rug between the benches? Good luck. It's a nice space.