gregg w.'s Profile

How about painting the wall a light, airy grey? Let the wood be the warmth, not the wall color. Find a delicate, perhaps vintage small lamp to set on the mantel, using the outlet on the right underside of the mantel to plug it into. Perhaps a heavy piece of mirror cut to fit the inside floor of the fireplace and place candles in mercury glass holders, or simple glass containers. Clear the mantle of all but a few decorative objects. Vase with bi weekly flower arrangements for the mantle. Extend the mantle onto the wall above with a long narrow banner, old school/team foto, or an old sign. Amp it up!