Looks like the niche was centered over the firebox opening...? Agree with painting the niche the same as the walls. I would put art work there vs a clock. Maybe something tall/narrow on the mantel to the left. Nothing on the right. Keep it very simple.

Chloebud- Yes! Now that you mentioned it, i looked again and it is centered over the niche. I was also thinking of something tall and narrow on the left as well, just not sure what yet. Artwork sound good for the niche. Thanks for the suggestion.

Robert, I think you might be happier with art work there. To me the clock thing has become kind of overdone and dated, BUT anything's fine if YOU like it. I'm not a pro so see what they can suggest.

Maybe a couple of tall candle holders to the left would work...in two different heights. You might try a google search for "arched niche over mantle" for some ideas. Just know that some examples will come up that can be kind of "out there" and/or crazy with clutter. Mantels look best when kept fairly simple.

Not chunky candles to clog area, esp. with art in niche. Enough to spread items to left, and not fill it up...

metal, or wood [stained slightly soft than mantel] for candle bases?

Cape Cod- Victoria · More Info

I'm going to search for ideas for "arched niche above mantle" That's a good start. Candles? Maybe.

Rina, also good ideas.

Tan neutral item against your paint would bring less contrast, to draw less notice to the wall --

Moonlight Beach - California · More Info

It's possible that 5 earthenware, rustic plates could enhance niche - I bought plate hangers at a dollar store.

Cala Woods Residence and Studio · More Info

Good photo/ idea to soft paint/ bit of glaze on a ceiling medallion [h. depot]?

New England Cottage · More Info

If it's enough like the stones, something like this?

Cyan Design Davenport Mirror · More Info

https://www.houzz.com/products/cyan-design-davenport-mirror-prvw-vr~70971654

I was wondering about what Steven commented on.

Sara Abbott's 'Imminent II' Canvas Gallery Wrap, 24x24 · More Info

https://www.houzz.com/products/sara-abbotts-imminent-ii-canvas-gallery-wrap-24x24-prvw-vr~20820016

If you like green a lot - this whimsy type?

Green Framed Art Print - Vector Black - LARGE (Gallery)-26x38 · More Info

https://www.houzz.com/products/green-framed-print-vector-black-26x38-large-gallery-prvw-vr~118412085

I recommend a vertical canvas with a frame and liner to show up against the dark wall.

lots of great ideas!

I like that you said metal - 24"

24" Tree of Life Metal Wall Art · More Info

https://www.houzz.com/products/tree-of-life-steel-drum-art-24x24-prvw-vr~66557162

the color is Aspen Hush by Dunn Edwards. Its somewhat turquoise.

If niche painted same as wall - this type with auburn similar to mantel? or 2nd is just plain tough. ;-)

"The Goldfish Bowl" Artwork, 24" x 30" · More Info

"American Bison portrait in snow, North America" by Tim Fitzharris, 28x38" · More Info

https://www.houzz.com/products/american-bison-portrait-in-snow-north-america-26x36-prvw-vr~74008592

[https://www.houzz.com/products/the-goldfish-bowl-artwork-24-x-30-prvw-vr~51285378[(https://www.houzz.com/products/the-goldfish-bowl-artwork-24-x-30-prvw-vr~51285378)

I just had the new stacked brick installed last week. I'm surprised my designer didn't comment on the mitered mantle and a fix for it. Perhaps the brick should have been wrapped around to the right to correct for the mitered mantle.Oh well.

I'm not expert, but seems photo angle makes a difference. If you don't do a 'like' I surely can reduce the posts ok?

The mantle is antique bronze. Actually, i told my designer i wanted Southwestern colors, since i like the Southwestern look and live in tucson!

Kinetic Stone I Wall Art by Tim O'toole · More Info

https://www.houzz.com/products/kinetic-stone-i-wall-art-by-tim-otoole-prvw-vr~100834196

Good idea downbythebrooke....it will never be right if the niche is not drywalled over and the mantle corrected.

These are colors the interior designer selected. The wall to the right is the same color as the niche. The kitchen cabinets are similiar colors to the niche and wall. My area rugs have similiarcolors to the niche and lighter colors surrounding thr niche.

If your niche art ends up fairly 'earthy muted' maybe to reduce contrasts nearby: paint it with same wall paint, but cut with bit of white - after all, only a 'framing' amount would show.