i would paint the bookcases the same color as the fireplace. they seem to be squeezing the fireplace now. I would also change the mantel out for a hand hewn barn beam in a warm medium tone

Either/or...

Can you reposition the sofa so it is facing the two focal points?

What white did you use for your fireplace?

I can’t speak on refinishing the wood because I’ve always been to scared to try it. I’m also not sure about doing a wood look paint treatment. If you choose to paint and want something other than your fireplace white, the following colors would look nice with your wall color; but you’d need to see how they look with your floors. You could always do a wood mantle if you painted the built ins.

@elcieg we currently do have a second sofa (same as one on right side of pic) sitting against the banister going up to kitchen facing the fireplace. Love the black idea! Not sure mr hubby will though 🫤

@texmax13 the white on the fireplace is “white 52” by Behr! Those are nice contrast colours for the whisper white, thanks for that! I suppose I could always paint them white 52 to match fireplace and if it’s too white, do the builtins in one of those contrast colours …🤔🤔