I would definitely remove those cabinet sort of things, but consider replacing with some nice custom built book shelves. You could even do it yourself, if you're handy that way. I would paint the new ones white. If you are up for keeping the original character of the room, keep the sailships and paint the fireplace shaft/wall a nice light blue - but not too light either it would not contrast enough with the white bookshelves. If you can't replace the fireplace right away I would consider painting the brick white. Just some ideas!

Yeah I am interested it keeping the character. I am going to polish the floor boards and pull out the cabinets and I was thinking white for replacements. I like the colour light green/ aqua and I was going to try strip the paint of the frames and make them back to jarrah.

You have amazing detail in this house with the leaded stained glass windows and that incredible ceiling which almost looks Art Deco to me. Although not exactly the same style, I would look at Craftsman houses - in particular, ones that have been restored. The wood around the fireplace does not look original. Try to design built ins or get free standing pieces which echo the period detail. Ditto for the fireplace. There must be hardwood floors. I would expose them. Do some research. It looks like you have a gem.

Hey thanks. It's a 1940's Californian bungalow. It has nice dark wood floors I am yet to get down to. I will look into this style you suggested :) this is the front, it's my dream house :)

Absolutely beautiful period house!

Congratulations.