Lori
Grey wall behind dark couch. Like the photo collage with art with white background to create a focal point in the room. Could paint your locket cabinet black and place in corner like photo to frame room make it not so rectangular. You could extend hardwood to family room. Price has come down and could be comparable to good carpet. Then add a lighter area rug to brighten the room.
I think neutral walls are a great way to go because you can change furniture with new throw pillows add area rugs to update a room as styles change over the years.
Q