Justgotabeme, thank you for the suggestions. I do have some handpainted pieces and art glass vases that I could put up there. I'll try that and see how it looks. Oopsie913, I had sconces on the wall under the plates, but I took them down. I haven't gotten around to lowering the plates yet. I do really need to get in there and do that. The shelf is very narrow...only about 8" wide so that sort of limits what I can use on the mantle. Olychic, I love the mercury glass candleholders! Unfortunately I can't use candles on the mantle in the winter time. I've had candles on it before and the heat from the fireplace almost melts them. They get really soft and sort of flop over. My3dogs, I honestly hadn't thought about painting the walls. I'm pretty sure my husband wouldn't care much for that suggestion as it hasn't been that long since we painted the room. I can just see his face if I told him I wanted to repaint it. The more I think about it though after reading your suggestion, the more I like the idea. I might just have to run it by him and see what he says. If you hear a loud booming noise, it's probably him. LOL!

I would say no to the hurricanes; they seem too small. You need something that bridges the corner. Can you back up a bit and re-photograph it? I see a drape on the right. Love your paint color.

How deep is the area above the cabinetry? My first thought is to add plants, either on the mantel or on top of the cabinetry or both. For instance, put a trailing, leafy plant on one side of your mantel. You could lean art or canvases in layers on top of the cabinetry. Or hang a pair of paintings or photographs symmetrically -- one on each side wall. You could place a globe on one side as an accessory. And perhaps a lantern? Hope that helps!

This fireplace surround and entire wall is quite unique. I like the basket you used but the shape is a little off. I think instead of filling the place up with modern looking items and frames you could try to go for a more unique look to fit that wall. Rattan, wood and glass textures in light colors would look really nice here. It has a super earthy feel. I would paint the sides of the fireplace a different color than that dark sage (if you're open to it). The vaulted ceilings really make it look interesting.