A fool proof color for natural woodwork is BM November Rain. It is light, neutral, and easy to work with using accent fabrics and rugs. I would go in a neutral direction on your walls because your wood sounds fabulous and that should be your focal point. Click on the BM link and see four colors recommended for coordinates.
http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/oc-50

Bohnhof is correct. Chestnut does not exist anymore as a resource for building. The chestnut blight of the early 20th century killed it off. Same with the elm tree. We pay incredibly exorbitant amounts for reclaimed wood, usually old barn beams with worm holes (have some great cabinet door samples I made with wormy chestnut, nobody wants to pay that much though). Please, don't paint this rare wood!

I won't paint it for the reasons you and Bohnhof stated. I just don't see any pictures or examples of rooms, etc... with natural woodwork. I agree with the other comment also, to use neutral colors for walls and allow the woodwork to be the focal point. Just wish there were some pictures to give examples of designs, styles and layouts. We have just purchased the farm I described, therefore, I am having some uncertainity as style.

Your post will get more attention in the design dilemma area. Try posting over there. And post pictures! When you want answers on style, visual people respond to visual stimulus.

How do I clean my wormy chestnut walls and kitchen cabinets. They have 50 years of dust and grime.