I would paint the entire fireplace including the mantel, all trim and shelving white. I like the Whisper White, but you must bring the paint samples into the room to see for yourself. The sheen on all woodwork should be semi-gloss, easy cleaning and looks crisp. I agree with painting the walls and I would paint the part above the mantel the same color as the walls, Summer Hue is beautiful, but once again I have no idea how that would look in your room. The walls should be flat most brands make a fairly easy to clean flat. If the fireplace were the focal point of the room, it could look very cool and dramatic to paint it a very dark gray almost black. But at least in this picture it seems that the entertainment/shelving unit is the focal point. hmm .... better stop while I am ahead.

Stay with light beige for your main pieces like the sofa and chairs. Add in other colors and patterns with pillows and throws. Keep the drapes simple and hang them high as possible (with a traditional height ceiling not a vaulted). It would help to have pictures and to know what style of furniture you prefer--modern, traditional or a mix.

What a beautiful house, Shahbaaz! I live in a similar house - a 150-year-old colonial bungalow in Kumaon. You have already received lots of excellent advice from better-qualified people, so all I would say is, keep its age and heritage character the central theme. The white tiles do clash, I am afraid ... flooring with terracotta tiles would echo the roof and look lovely. The columns and the arches over the doors and windows are amazing. But I'd say, leave it all chuna-painted - there's a beauty and softness to it. Don't let the painters add too much neel (indigo) in the limewash -- in the hills where I live, they put far too much if I don't watch out and the result is a harsh white. Natural lime has a softer, creamy look.

Hello KK, White and Brick Red combination may also look good besides the above suggestion. Ultima Protek is better and more lasting paint. Make sure you follow the painting instructions it should last for 8-10 years. It requires approx 4-5 coats of different dilutions and drying time of 6 hours between coats and avoid rainy seasons for painting. All good painters are busy during diwali so better get it done before or after it. Thanks, Nitin Cornerstone Designs.