The proportion and scale on the columns is "off." They have no "capital." They need a neutral color that makes them recede into the background. Consider painting them the same color as the adjacent walls. The adjacent wall looks like some type of silk wall covering. He really should hire a local interior designer who offers consulting services. There's a lot going on in the room to blend what he wants to keep and bring the space into this era. I would remove the weird columns, the mirrors and the silk wall covering and paint all of the walls, ceilings, trim and columns a beautiful creamy white. He has nice furniture and the floor will look better in the neutral surroundings.