Thank you for posting the pic. Is it just open space opposite the chairs and a blank wall with the entry door? Any windows on that wall? Is that a table showing on the right of this pic, or a counter between living room and kitchen? My first thoughts are that those chairs must be pulled away from the wall and angled in some way, and somehow you need to find space for more seating. Could you angle them towards each other against the room divider, or is that a cupboard you need access to? Then you could turn the table 90 degrees, and place other seating facing the chairs. I'm liking the idea of picking up on colour from the green glass on the table, but I'm not sure how yet. I have a busy day ahead but I hope to check in later.

Perhaps a large round table might mean a rug is not at all necessary. It could be a metal tray table, or carved wood like Rebecca Mitchell Interiors illustrates. Ideas also to consider, using multiple tables can be found at http://www.houzz.com/multiple-coffee-tables. I also agree with comments above that some color is needed on the walls. You could then hang round mirrors, or an unusual curved shape like RMI shows above.

Unfortunately all your options require custom work: It looks like you need an 18" corner cabinet. You will have to modify the last wall cabinet on the left. As I am eyeballing it, you should be able to cut the last cabinet in the middle and then shorten the left section to fit the space of the wall next to the door trim. It's an option that makes the area looks symmetric. Or you can install shelves over the sink. I would not recommend it because it will take the looks away. And the last option will be to remove the last cabinet, shorten it so it fits over the sink and install a single cabinet where the double one was. This will leave a triangle space behind the corner where the two cabinets will meet. You can block the space under it. Hope this helps!

I have some suggestions if you are thinking budget friendly changes. Make a photo gallery with different size frames and arrange them parallel to the stairs, so you can enjoy each photo as you climb up. And for the area that will be on a level with your upper floor, try some pretty decal that will connect the photo gallery to upper level. And last, if you have budget add some beautiful hanging lights in the stairwell. Also think about repositioning your refrigerator.