bump

I don't know how dark green fits into anything Scandinavian.

Perhaps find an inspiration photo. Here are some fireplaces with built-ins on the sides.

I would love to see your inspiration pictures for this room.

@njmomma here you go! I’ll include some for kitchen as well since it will be adjacent

Inspo pics

https://www.houzz.com/photos/fantastic-echo-fireplace-monica-wang-mediterranean-living-room-los-angeles-phvw-vp~151257457

More inspo photos

Should also add the style I am going for is a scandavian / California casual look and not adhering strictly to Scandinavian

So the dark green I was picturing is probably not the dark green you had in mind.

If you are doing the kitchen in a shade of green, I would probably do a tile with some green in it for the fireplace.

I would keep the shelves as they are and add plants and wood accessories with books to your shelves.

Since your bookshelves are short, taking anything to the ceiling may emphasize this. I would take inspiration from Beverlys 1st photo above and keep the center portion uniform and raised to 10" below your ceiling height with no mantle. You could use wood panels or paint maybe BM Kendall Charcoal. Then update your cabinet doors and keep it white to match your existing trim and accessorize with your green colors and wood objects.

@hu818472722 took your advice and here are the results! In love.

Oh and here is adjacent kitchen and entry so you can see how the gray/green fits in

Adjacent entryway and kitchen

It turned out great! Love how it emphasizes your vaulted ceiling! Really nice job incorporating your vision and executing it!