i would say, choose a theme just for that space and work around it! for example: maybe "asian" theme! paint the back wall RED or ORANGE, have a piece of buddha statue on the top most rack, you can use one shelve to just hold books with some decorative book ends, and instead of the chair, you can use the asian trunck boxes (if you google for asian trunks, you can see what i am talking about! - look for square boxes), this way, you can also tuck those boxes under the desk/shelf when not in use and the trunk could also be a storage for your files - you can also place a floor vase with some bamboo sticks - the asian theme would really work here as your wood is black/brown this would also turn out to be a peaceful writing space - enjoy!

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).

Formal living rooms are rarely used from my experience. I can't tell you how many times I have "re-done" them for clients because after living in a home for a while the home owner realizes that they are wasted space. My advice to you about a formal living area is to leave it undone for 3-4 months and utilize the rest of your new home. See what is missing. Do you need an office, a den? A library? Quiet reading area? An exercise room? A craft room? Or maybe you really do need a formal entertaining area for your multitude of guests that come around every weekend where you entertain very high-brow style. But figure that out first otherwise your investment will be wasted. Part of why you and your husband are drawn to different furnishings is for these reasons: 1) The function of the room is not well established. So he envisions sitting on a big bulky comfy couch watching TV, and you envision sipping tea on a gorgeous ethnically inspired piece of furniture and chatting with your friends. This can only be vetted out with time and understanding how you as a couple will use all of your house. 2) You have different ideas about home design. Your husband is interested in comfort and you are interested in style. You will need to find a happy medium. Instead of saying well his style isn't going to fit with my style, think about how he can have a comfortable piece of furniture in the room that is perhaps tailored enough to go along with some beautifully wood carved, ethnic pieces. And this may actually enhance the look and make it look less "themed". And at the end of the day you may want to consider hiring a designer to help you through the process - often times that can help you weed through the process of balancing out form and function and his wants and your wants in the space. Best of luck!

Hi Rorli, I hope you are doing well. Congratulations on the space! The best way to cozy up a space, without spending a lot is through - Art - I feel the Giant picture on the wall is substracting from the space rather than adding to it. You can replace it with something beautiful that you like and/ or a medium sized framed mirror - This will reflect all that beautiful light in your apartment and make it more spacious. You can add a wall hanging in the empty wall space near the bar area. Rugs - A giant rug which accomodates bothe th sofas rather than just the coffee table. This will also make the room look bigger. However, It is important to buy a plain or maximum two tone rug for this effect to work. If buying a rug with lots of detail, please buy it in a lighter color. Cushions - Lost of colorful fluffy cushions in various shapes and textures and a couple of throws wil help balance out the beigeyness of the sofas. Lighting - Adding fairylights in the balcony and a couple of tall lamps in corners will help too. If you can, replace the central light with a chandelier of your choice. Plants - A few indoor plants add that homey feeling while having the added bonus of supplying oxygen. You can also opt for fake plants, if you don't want to buy real ones. Common color scheme - This is the most important aspect because even after buying new furniture, it may not look good if everything is mis-matched. To make the room feel more spacious, you can shift the light in the corner next to sofa, after removing the sofa from the corner a bit. You can also just replace the single seater with a luxurious Armchair of your choice , tilted to face the tv and put the small table next to it to turn it into a viewing area/ reading nook. Above - Blue/ white color scheme works very well with plants. Monochrome neutral color scheme with pillows and throws. If you need any more ideas or help, feel free to contact me. Hope this helps!