I wouldn't feel bad painting it. It is making the room look really dark and have no contrast from the floor to the wall. It's actually making your room height look shorter. As far as the color to paint - that depends on what you like, but I would definitely lighten it up.

and to make matters worse I have very traditional furniture in the room as well . ignore the storage cube that won't be in the room

I love the hardwood but it does not look good on the wall. I would either paint it or completely remove it. As far as the chandelier, because you are going for a modern look, I would completely change it out for something different. Something that I really like when it comes to lighting is pendant lighting. I think that you should look into that. IMO: You should get rid of the furniture. It looks very traditional. By the way, I like the storage cube. Good luck!

I would paint it out all the same color..walls and wood..that way the wood will just disappear leaving just some interest on the wall. By adding some contemporary grommet drapes and chandelier it will help make the room not so traditional with your furniture. Love your rug choice! Continue with that sMe feel throughout the room and it will be a very sophisticated updated dinning room.

This s a wonderful example...

zzmom!!! I love the inspiration pic!!! thank you!

Me too! Awesome room and the chairs look so similar to yours...just remember less is more..keep your art and accessories large and in charge..no small nicknacks.

I like zzmom's suggestion. It is lovely. However, the room in the picture has more windows, doors than yours. If you want to go that route, tone down the warm grey, in order not to darken the room too much. My suggestion Benjamin Moore HC-172 Revere Pewter.

After you paint the walls and wood the same color, be sure to paint the electrical outlet covers too. Other items to update the look might include different chairs for the ends of the table and different fabric on the chair seats. Those changes plus large artwork on the walls and a new chandelier should do the trick. Good luck!

thank you Adrian!! absolutely love that color! thank you Bae im on it! New end chairs seems within my budget! its amazing how a few suggestions can make an hopeless situation feel a lot more manageable! thank you all!