I think a shabby chic look isn't too dissimilar from an English country look so would look great in your house. A pale dove grey is perfect for shabby chic with pastel pinks and green with stripes, checks and floral fabrics, wallpaper etc. Brown is neutral so grey won't clash, however is the lounge carpet the same as throughout as this looks a pinky beige? Painted furniture is obviously key to the look especially white. If you did have a very dark brown carpet elsewhere I may not add white furniture. I personally wouldn't have anything over the fire, I feel the picture detracts from the fireplace. I do agree, sorry, I'm not convinced on the chandelier with your preferred decor. You can mix and match styles but the hard iron and colour just wouldn't work with the scheme in my opinion. A french style I also think would work, just lose the vintage accessories that make it shabby and some different patterned fabrics! I wouldn't do what I would define as an elegant scheme as I don't think it would work as well with the style of the house although french is elegant too If that makes any sense! Maybe post a pic of what you define as elegant!

Open out! Why take up space inside?? I was at a customer's house this week, and the builder had told her that the doors couldn't be opened further outwards, so that they laid almost flat against the sides. The bars on the top of the doors can be adjusted to open a long way or a short way, they might not go completely flat against the frame, but they will go quite a way!

Hi Laura! I believe the question is strongly related to what your design scheme is for the said room. It might very well be that either french/sliding/bifold doors work best but all in relation to the design of your kitchen cabinets and units, colours and materials (if I understand correctly that this room will be the kitchen/dining area). However, one thing to keep in mind is that if do opt for the bifold doors, they will occupy a bit of space when they open all the way, so you would need that space cleared of any furniture (unless you wish to move it when you open the doors). If you do have the space for that, then that is brilliant. Personally, I think these work best because when they are completely opened, you have an unobstructed view of the garden. In the end, it's a matter of space, taste, design and if it can be done from a structural point of view (as it is an exterior wall after all and having these type of doors can create a big gap/opening in the wall). Hope this helps.

Photos please, it will say 1000 words and make it a lot easier to help ;)