Oh that is a good idea to leave the mantle wood... IDK why in my head I was thinking I would need to paint everything... Thank you!

I have two wall sconces and some art coming for the solid white paneled wall. I agree- I think that will help make the corner more cozy :)

If you opt for painting the built-in perhaps you would be able to remove the top corners of the bookcases that form the arch to make the corners square for a more modern look.

Here are two options, one showing an all white built-in wall, the other with the sections on both sides of the fireplace in black.

I think this is pretty cool as is. Are those your furnishings? They match the style.

@lisedv thanks for the mock ups!! yes i think we could totallt remove thw arches, you can tell it is a separate puece of wood

@Shawna thanks! yes, they are all of our furnishings. I get mixed votes when i ask friends and family too when we have them over. Half love the wood as is. I do apprecitae the details and wood work.

I would leave the wood. Once its painted, it is not an easy job to undo it.

If you have other projects, I would leave this one for now. If you want to lighten the look, you can add nice textured grasscloth wallpaper to the back of the built-in. Install on a very thin piece of plywood cut to exact size and just prop it up in there with a few small nails.

You don't need a pattern like this, but shows idea of putting wallpaper behind shelves.

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You could consider painting the built-ins a color or partly painting and leaving the mantle wood. Take a minute to look at the images below of some built-ins we have designed for clients.

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