larrylwill, I found Garden Web a little over three years ago because of a larger contractor problem with cabinets that ended up in court. It was nasty. It was costly. It was a time robber. I have been 'almost done' for months. I kept thinking I'd be done before school started back...or before school got out, or before my anniversary, etcetera, etcetera. This forum was such an encouragement and support on those nights when I just could not sleep. I don't know how those people in this life can go around screwing others out of their hard earned money can sleep, but they do. I know the government can, but I mean, individuals that you deal with one on one. You chose them for their talents and skills and they perform for a fee. When they do not perform, but show up, they still believe they command full payment. It's just not right. This business of being in business is not fair or regulated fairly by our courts. I'd much rather the press be free and fair like it should be without fear of true consequences when we are swindled, we can say we were swindled. When we are presented with a bait and switch scheme, then we can say just that without fear of another ongoing court battle about subjective subject matter in the eyes of the court. What is black and white in my eyes are purple polka dots in the courts eyes. When my contract is clear and precise, how can a court deem it clear as mud? I do not get it. There is too much politics in justice and too many idiots on benches. If you have the skills, buy the trim and finish it yourself. Don't pay another cent to anyone but yourself. BTW, Love the photo of the check idea. Drinking one for ya'. Here is a link that might be useful: My Days in Court with CabFiascoGuy I & II

In addition to the longer console, consider a narrow bookcase, or cabinets continuing along the wall in question. Add artwork above and some of your favorite things: vases, a plant or photos... Whatever that you have and enjoy. Using what you love will make it yours.

The room beside the fireplace room looks sooooo good! Hard to believe it is the same house! OK, about the lamps. You need rectangular shades either for those lamps or we need to try a different approach. You can try that white lamp you have with the rectangular shade on one end and then try putting a floor lamp on the end where there is the corner. I see you “grouped” some photos on a small table by the white chair. And put a throw over the white chair. How does that look from the back view? Are you gaining some confidence now and seeing with some changes you can vastly improve your home and not spend a dime! Don’t you love that?

@casey I'm not much help with the design of your room, but I'm very interested in hearing more about your Mantel Mount. My TV is too high above my fireplace and I have been researching the Mantel Mount. Are you still glad that you purchased this, does it work as you expected, and is there anything you would recommend when choosing which Mantel Mount model? I really appreciate your input. Thank you.