That is pretty, flyleft. I think the reasons it works are the very high ceiling, the continuing brick work on the wall surrounding the mantel, and the raised hearth. Although that vertical brick makes me wonder about maybe doing stone of some sort in a vertical brick pattern instead of the square limestone tiles. Too trendy perhaps?

it's a doggie door. it can be amazing and also very annoying. Maggie the Airedale is always half out the doggie door so her butt is in a lot of my photos. we call it "butt bombing" haha Julie! I could not have done this with out your amazing skills and tracking down perfect dining chairs. My husband and I thought we would never agree on a set :) :) I have learned so so much! Now on to the bedroom, and then the entry way and dog grooming/yoga studio!

HU-634etc., I don't think you need to stay away from bronze. If you do a search for MCM fire screens, you'll find a lot of brass and bronze. But typically, MCM fireplaces had built-in screens or glass doors or a large hearth with no screen at all. The trick is to find a fire screen that has the flavor of the era without looking dated since brass and bronze have fallen out of favor in the last decade or so. A bigger concern for me is that you are going from traditional to MCM, a transition that is not easily made. A house that comfortably hosts traditional furnishings is unlikely to adapt well to the simple sleek look of MCM.

I would also remove the small bookcase on the wall and put a colorful large vertical piece of art that you love on that wall. if there is room, possibly add an accent chair in that corner with the floor lamp. the lamp needs a companion in that corner and possibly a chair, again if there is room