The darker the wall is, the less you will notice the registers.

Very tall mirror or artwork that extends beyond the vents; then the eye will look right past them.

you could do a shadow type frame above the fireplace across the top where the intakes are you can do a scrolled type or detailed wood that would allow venting or the nicer metal type grate then around the top do crown im not sure if this will help i am much better at picturing it and building it than describing it lol

Great point@ Here! What if you paint the wall above te fireplace dark brown and here are some accessory ideas

You need to experiment with various sizes, shapes of things. Why can't you paint out the air intakes the same colour as your wall? I'd try THAT first, I'm sure there has to be a metal paint colour that is a closer match to your wall colour.
If you don't want ot do that - then add more black to the fireplace in your accessories - to make the black boxes feel like they belong to the scenario rather than screaming "i'm out of place".
then play with accessorizing your fireplace to a style that best reflects your taste - some images to inspire good luck with your project.

Oh my goodness! What great suggestions!!! The vents ARE painted the color of the walls! They look black in the photos but that is actually just the space behind them! From the mantle top to the ceiling is EIGHT feet. So the whole thing is about 13 feet tall. I love the pictures of mantle decorations. The top of the picture frame is about 2 1/2 feet above the mantle while the bottom of the vents are about 3 feet above the mantle.

@ lurveit, would you do a mirror that run between the vents??? You can't cover them up!

Consider painting the inside of the vents as far in as you can reach - prime first. Mirrors should reflect beauty or interest. Unless you're ready to hang a great light fixture from the ceiling to fall in front of the mirror, I wouldn't do that. I think you need a new mantel and possibly some added architectural interest around the area. Your TV is overpowering the delicate chest and needs to be built in.


https://www.houzz.com/photos/21st-century-bungalow-contemporary-living-room-new-york-phvw-vp~413007

Yes, missdenny, between the vents.

Something big and reflective, like a sunburst mirror + something living or was once living like an orchid, books, and something with structural interest (eg a birdcage), you will have to play with size. What about putting the TV above? Fireplace could be painted the same color as walls.

I agree with Ironwood Builders above. I'd have someone come in and see if they can successfully re-toute the vents (or eliminate them?).

Thank you for the suggestions ! I think I should look into having the tv built in.... Which doesn't help with the mantle! But it's a good idea! I think the vents are air return for the air conditioner! I will check about getting them moved! Thanks!!

Definitely not the air returns for the AC. That is never located near a fireplace. If the heat kicks on from a cooler room where the thermostat is placed, the fireplace would back draft and fill the house with smoke and carbon monoxide. Look for the CA return near the thermostat, centrally located in the house and never, ever, ever on an outside wall or near a fireplace!