I would love advice on what to do with this fireplace/mantle and built-ins. When we moved in it was painted a terribly so I stripped it down to the original wood with the intention to paint it. Then a commenter on houzz suggested keeping it as it helped to bring the color of the floors up. I thought that made a lot of sense and liked that idea. Ship lap has just been installed (opinions on that to yourself please - I've noticed very strong opinions on both sides on the discussion boards ) which we are painting white. Any opinions as to what to paint the woodwork? Would love suggestions. I've gotten so much good advice on here which has helped me tremendously throughout this reno process. We are in the final stretch! Disregard the mess of furniture in the middle of the room, the "hearth", lighting and the tv on our new mantle... short term solution. Excited to hear your thoughts!