Hello


First off I think the current look is nice and goes well with your current furnishings.


If you want a change I would go with an off white or light gray for the entire wall.

I do a lot of paint color consultations for this very thing for people who simply just want a new look. It always comes out nice!

If you want the opinion of a professional to help you select a paint color I'm sure I could help you locate a peer in your city to help you.

Best of luck!

KHB Interiors in New Orleans

I would use the same neutral paint to paint out the beams and window trim...that will really brighten and open up your space.

My suggestions:

For the built-ins:

- Paint the frames white to brighten up the place

- Paint the back in a vibrant color you pull from the room (perhaps from a throw pillow, rug, curtain, etc). You can even paint it in a pattern to add interest.

For the fireplace:

- Paint the fireplace sides and the part above the mantle white

- Tile the fireplace below the mantle with an interesting tile that reflects light, but is a bit darker (to contrast with the white)

- Replace the mantle with wood to match your beams

Other thought:

- Consider adding curtains on your windows that nod to the color choice on the back of the built-ins to pull the room together

- Replace your throw pillows with something more fun and colorful

Oh, please don't paint the fireplace brick - it's so nice as is. Start with painting the built ins and see if that gives you the lift you're looking for. Match the color of the mortar as previously suggested. The idea of painting the backs a fun color is another good idea. And then matching a few pillows to that color will tie the room together. Also, can you remove the piece of chair-rail between the built in and the door opening on the left? It doesn't seem to serve any purpose. It's really a beautiful room!!!

It could be nice to see some images from our portfolio before you proceed.

I like that you have a niche on your fireplace. gives it more visual interest and character. If you painted it, I think those features would stand out more. And painting the adjoining cabinetry would create a cohesive look for that entire wall.

Your mantle is slimmer; a heftier, preferably raw wood against the painted, would be showy.

If you can think radical, rip out the mantle shelf, tile the entire niche including the hearth and paint the bookcases a shade darker than the tile. Your furniture colors should give you a good starting point on the color chart.