Thank you. Should I remove the wrought iron or layer art with it?

I really like your fireplace and windows. I totally agree with painting that area the same color white. For me, mantels always look better when kept simple. I wouldn't layer too many items to avoid a cluttered look. The right size piece of art would be lovely.

If you paint that portion out than you can add that gorgeous sailboat art from earlier post. Hang it up slightly higher on the wide trim...add beautiful blue glass accessories....so pretty

I'm still thinking maybe a series of 3 pieces of art, maybe unframed to take up the space, or looking for a bolder color art piece. I'm not opposed to painting the space white, which will make things more cohesive and simple to decorate. Blue glass accessories would look great with the sailboat art too. I've a few more spots to check out before final decision. Thanks for all the advice. Any other ideas would be appreciated.

Just keep this in mind you have a lot of trim accents so simpler is better..I would not do three pieces of art...just to much going on with all the beautiful trim...keep it simple with one piece of art.

I think that if you remove the top surround - the piece above the mantel, then you'd have more success with a coastal theme.