This arrangement works much better, but some adjustments are needed to make it work. First, the fireplace grouping needs to be tightened. It crowds the dining area and you need a passageway behind the couch. Turn the rug lengthwise, parallel to the fireplace. Pull the large couch about 2 1/2 feet closer to the fireplace, and place the two chairs and loveseat on the ends of the rug, and pull them closer together. This will give you a more intimate conversation area, and not impose on the other areas of the room. Remove that floor lamp from behind the couch. If you need the light in that area, put it by the fireplace. Also, the stereo system on the mantel needs to find another home. Maybe it can go IN the fireplace instead. At the other end of the room, I think the arrangement would look better if the seating were rotated 90 degrees. Keep the rug and coffee table in its current configuration, place the sofa either facing the window or with its back to the window, and put the two chairs opposite it. Finally, the dining area. Now that you've moved the big leather chairs, you should have enough room. Your rug is too small. It should be big enough to give you at least a 2 ft. border all the way around when the chairs are pushed in. And it's a really beautiful table; please uncover it. I can't see what kind of lighting that area has. It really needs a pendant or chandelier hanging directly over the table.

Yep painting over paneling usually doesnt look great but painted paneling is what wainscotting is so it could work. have you considered tile instead of flagstone for the fireplace? especially if you are going modern - flagstone isnt usually considered modern . as far as the kitchen - you can get an estimate for the cost to remodel the kitchen for your new home at www.remodelormove.com. Good luck!

Your drapes look like they're fine. It's hard to see if they're long enough--do they just touch the floor? That would be the right length. Make sure the paint you pick blends with the color of the drapes and the two chairs. The Edgecomb Gray looks like it would work or you could go with an entirely different color and add pictures and rug to pull it all together. Love the color Sea Salt by SW.

This is a floor to cathedral red brick fireplace that I'm trying to update to a more transitional look. I have looked into painting or limewashing white but I feel like there will be alot of painted lines and could be busy. I also think that looks like the budget option. While I AM on a budget, I'd like to investigate more options stucco over the brick? drywalling the brick? Ideas? I can't change the orange peel textured walls or the dark hardwood floors or the fireplace box itself. The hearth goes across to the window wall and sticks out 2 1/2 feet. I have enclosed 3 pics for more clarity. Thxs for any help!