did you find instructions? I find youtube to be great for this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9ISDEkW3i4

Since you've tried the over the counter method, I would agree with Bobbi. Hire a pro. Those sinks are so pretty refinished to their original state and a pro will give you a finish that will last the rest of your life. If you can't find anyone listed in the phone book, ask around at a hardware store.

I like the ceiling. I think the hanging lights are too fancy and distract from the ceiling decor. A simpler light would look better or sticking with the canned lights you have. The walls have too many big, black things on them. It's hard to tell if they are windows with shade --- in which case I'd pick something lighter, perhaps to echo the ceiling, TVs (how many do you need?) or what. I'd consider a big piece of statement art in the place of at least one. If you're on a budget, get a large, high quality photo in the right colors, you can take it yourself. Sepia and black architectural might work. I like more color and more natural light. You may have closed the shades for a better picture, so it's hard to comment on the light, plus windows are a feature of your room, not exactly a decorator's choice. I would consider how to get a few small pops of color in, pillows, flowers, candles, maybe even a runner rug along the right wall. If you are doing this as part of a portfolio, the entire ensemble would look more welcoming with a few touches like someone lives there. Something on the coffee table, for example. A few books and a candle. A tray with tea things, a vase of flowers or basket of fruit. Pick one or two things and make it composed. You see this a lot in designer Houzz photos. Here's an example, you note this picture would be a lot more stark with an empty table: https://www.houzz.com/photos/21-house-contemporary-living-room-san-francisco-phvw-vp~60642

you are thinking about the space right now. it looks odd, no doubt. 1) when you fill in with the furniture, just make sure the three steps are hidden. 2) consider three potted plants of different height, so the rectangle is complete. 3) glass bowl with Siamese fighting fish for each step 4) figurines of different heights 5) 2inch square wooden bar on each step up to the top of the rectangle. and complete the entire rectangle if you want with a smaller rectangle open in the center my suggestion is, there is a reason why this space ended up like this. it will look great once you put something there. things like these are what make your house unique.