Nice progress, but I agree it would be better lowered at some point, and possibly loosened up. With of course that metal box someplace where your husband doesn't sit. :) Both rooms that are experienced mainly when sitting and low ceilings can be dealt with by mounting wall decor relatively low, and in the case of the latter letting attention focus below so that a ceiling can sort of "soar" without notice above.

Bookcases are up! Or, at least two of them are ☺️ I ordered three, which would exactly fill this wall. But now I’m thinking maybe two is better: if I want the sofa centered on the fireplace (which I’m pretty sure I do), then the third might make the walkway from the living to the dining part of the room feel pinched. What do you think? I have lots of great art waiting to be hung, and I’m thinking maybe using the space on either side of the shelves for a painting or two, rather than adding the third set of shelves? Please excuse the messy table 😆 I‘d also be grateful for any thoughts about the styling — I put this together late at night, with lots of sentimental treasure that have been hanging out in inappropriate places around the house. I have other spots to display things, though, so if anything is out of place, it can be relocated (except for the baskets — there’s one of those for each of my kids for homeschool work; they like to work in the dining room lately, and I’m happy to give them space as long as everything goes back in the basket when they’re done). Thoughts?

UPDATE: I went all over town and the next town seeking to find an art piece.. or two/three. I found nothing that I really loved, but I found a larger mirror. I may try the rectangle large one too that May Const. recommended... I'm just running out of steam, and I really don't want to spend $100's on picture that I don't love. Thank you all for your input, it is greatly appreciated!

Agree that maybe your current space planning is not optimal. What is the sofa facing currently? Is that a prominent visual line from another room? Or is the sofa facing a TV? If you keep it as-is, you will have to ignore symmetry on that wall.