agreed, it's a "dated" Better design and investment in upgraded wall and ceiling moldings and lighting for a living room

This is not the main living. This is a second living at the basement.so will be used for tv viewing and casual family time .Only issue is we will loose 3 feet on the right side as a landing space before entering the bedroom and also around a feet for the steps.After loosing this the area will be around 14feet *9 feet .IS it still ok for a sunken area or will it get congested?

@OnePlan Thanks for the input. I liked the idea of serving as well as snack eating area. @Dytecture Yes, we are adding a second level, which would have 3 bedrooms, some gym area and a pantry. But we will get it designed after the ground level is finalized. We have thought to add 2 bedrooms (above the existing bedrooms at ground level) along with some outer balcony in the back area. 1 more bedroom above the kitchen. Gym area above the mezzanine floor at ground level (which also has small store in basement). Open terrace above the parking. We are more confused about the exit to the back (Parking) which is currently from the master bedroom. Also, if any of the room can be shifted elsewhere, instead of two adjoining rooms.

Tsilanko, I would always recommend professional installation where needed. But what I am doing here is suggesting that WHEN you are planning to build or renovate, to consider how your plans will affect you in 20 or 30 years time. Split levels are very hep when you are young. A kitchen 3 steps down at 30 is rarely a problem, but might be a hazard at 60, or, as Marjie1059 suggested, if you break a leg. ... All my parents' homes were terrible for old people. They were forced to move to a bungalow in extreme old sge because the location and design of their home was more suitable for an active young couple with a large family than for an elderly couple with stroke disabilities. I would not want to move again, so my present home has features built in that make ageing in place simpler. Mostly small changes, like grab rails, and lever handles on doors and faucets. A major disability suddenly suffered requires major changes if permanent. I did look at this because it came up in the discussion, but if you look at the heading, Planning for Disability, it means just that. Plan ahead so you don't have to make expensive changes later on. But thank you for your advice, yes, major changes are not in the DIY domain.