looks like the walls are pale oak. Is that what you are after, all one color?

I'd consider removing the half moon piece if you plan to paint them.

I think I'd leave the mantle

I don’t love the mantle and tile combo. I’d paint the mantle but leave the bookcases as unpainted.

I agree, paint the mantle and leave the built ins.

You can change the hardware on the built ins.

Thanks for showing the Pale Oak - I agree does not look good. Can’t redo the surround - just installed it! Was challenging finding something that was not too gray and that is “warm”. Looked for months! Anyway, may try painting the mantle only.

I would paint with wall color if not entire built-ins, than bottom part or even only back on top.

If you just installed the new surround, I would live it with for a bit and not rush into painting anything

Just seeing this wall, I think it looks great as is and wouldn’t paint anything. It’s a nice-looking stain color and everything has a pleasing, balanced look. I like your surround, too. You have just enough contrast to make it interesting.

I agree with la la Girl to at least wait.

What is on the other side of the room? That might or might not make a difference.

Open into my kitchen - island is same stain as built ins

Nope, nope, not into it. This is a tough one, but I think:

- the side bookshelves are fine -- wouldn't touch them.

- the mantle is the problem, but I don't know what to do with it.

- maybe, maybe if you did the dark wood above the mantle as well? Yes, it'd bring in a lot more dark, but it would be more cohesive.

- and something above the bookshelves. Or take them to the ceiling.

- in general, I like arches, but the arches on these bookshelves seem "wrong" somehow. If the fireplace were arched, I think it'd be better. More coordinated.

Yes, I'd like to see the whole room. This wall has a lot going on, and the whole room must be balanced.

I think it looks great as-is. Painting the mantle will only emphasize the mis-match color difference between the walls and fireplace tiles. The bookcases look great with your floor. Everything is pleasing right now and the stain blends with the wood piece in your kitchen.

If you live with it for awhile and feel like paint is needed, I'd go with the trim paint, not the color of the walls.

Forgot to mention that the walls in this room will be painted a lighter color - same family but lighter

I would definitely do the trim paint if I paint the mantle - don’t want to introduce any more colors to this challenging space! Thanks to everyone for your comments!