I don't think a rustic beam mantle is consistent with the other traditional details of the room. Are the shelves being completely removed?

I see the look you're going for, but I quite like the beam and the shelves the way they are. They add interest to the room.

Thank you for your input

I’d paint the shelves, not the beam.

The dark shelves seem very heavy and I see why you are thinking of painting them. If you do, why don’t you paint them the color of the walls? My preference, though, would be to find another place in the room/your home for them. And the tv, too.

If they aren’t built in I would move them to another room. Also, you might want to scoot your furniture a bit closer so at least all the front legs are on the rug.

Unfortunately, I cannot get rid of them or move the. To another place in our home. I'll definitely look into having them go up to the ceiling to mimic built ins.