Black wrought iron from the top of the glass "fence" to the ceiling of the balcony would be pretty. The contractor will know how far apart to install the WI for safety. I wouldn't have any fancy WI design, just plain. The WI could also be installed horizontally. Extending the glass would be pretty, too! If the area was fully enclosed you could keep the french doors open more often and incorporate this balcony area into your living space year round. Also it would keep out dust and wind and rain & would be easier to keep clean, maybe there could be a vent for fresh air when the weather was nice. Could you talk to someone who has enclosed their balcony for more information? Depending on the sun exposure, you might need screening, too. The furniture & colors should harmonize with your living room. Ask your family what they might use the balcony for. If to sit and enjoy the view and plants, you will want one type of furnishing and if to eat on the balcony you'll need a table and chairs, too. This is a cute balcony arrangement, but I do not know how comfortable the little WI chairs would be: http://lh4.ggpht.com/_t8-Y4w1UKrc/Sa9w-hXyEeI/AAAAAAAAVrc/hb9dAYdw59c/s1600-h/image%5B45%5D.png

You have all the reasons to redo the house, its very lifeless and looks worn out. I feel creating a separation will terminate the spaciousness of the room. Adding colours will surely help, Since you have a tan color sofa,I suggest grey, white or light blue color on one of the walls. Add some art works of the color you chose for the wall. This room needs some fillers like , books, throws, candle stands tall and lean. YES DON FORGET 1. Mount the tv on the wall make some space on the floor and Fix a large size mirror ( Wooden Frame if you can afford).

I think a comfortable distance between the island and the counter is around 42". It seems that you have only 30" between your cook top and the counter. I might be a little too tight. The wall between the entrance and the kitchen could be 4' long instead of 6', you would then be able to move the island a foot which would give you more room between the cook top and the island. Could you switch the location of the toilet and vanity in your dad's bathroom so your enter facing a vanity instead of a toilet which is a lot nicer.

Have you ever thought about floating shelves? I think pairing a few floating shelves together would look great and would free up space in your living room. I really like the Eugene floating shelf from Bryght and I think it would compliment your existing pieces. http://www.bryght.com/product/160/eugene-cocoa-shelf