I think it needs to be more contrast either Dark or Light, it blends too much.

your room appears to be cottage style with the white... I would not change it to be fancier or more traditional, it's a fine mantel, just needs to stand out.

a Dark Ebony or Black would be a nice enhancement.

Thank you, Lyn! I bet you’re right about it blending too much. I like the idea of staining it ebony. It was white when we moved in & I don’t prefer it.

We did change quite a bit to the home, so I thought maybe I would like it better now - but I agree - I think an ebony stain will look nice. Thank you!

Maybe changing your art to something brighter like your rug would help also

I would just remove the mantle -- at least for a while. If what's holding it up means there are ugly holes in the brick I'd have to decide how I wanted to deal with covering them up -- but it might not be another mantle.

If taking down the mantle is too much of a risk, I would remove the artwork, the candles (including the ones on the hearth) and I would set the live plant on the floor, not the hearth. Then I'd think about what else I wanted -- if anything. Probably fireplace tools where plant now is. (or is it gas/electric?) Maybe (maybe) one or 3 framed simple drawings propped up on the right side of the mantle?

I actually think the terracotta low-keyness of your fireplace is nice. I wouldn't draw more attention to it but just enjoy the earthy hues.

Thank you! Unfortunately, behind the mantel is a wooden 2x4 built into the brick. So no mantel isn’t an option. I appreciate your recommendations! Lots to think about!

I agree darker and get rid of the fake plants they are never good .

Thank you, Patricia! They're all live plants - no fake plants in this house. :)

^ agree - I like what you have on the mantle, I could also see a small little plant friend on the left side to keep that taller one company