Boundsgreen i didn't even know there was a term to describe what i like - 'art & design focused' that sums up exactly what i've been struggling to describe! Previously i've tended to be a bit matchy with colour schemes etc and although originally wanted to go quite luxurious on the look in this house i've decided now i'd rather it was a blank canvas, almost a gallery to show the random bits of art & furniture i love. It's a new approach for me hence why i'm a bit lost with it. I LOVE those pics from Geraldine Morley Interior Design and could only dream my living space could look like that ! This week alone i've hung the art work changed the curtains and sourced new side tables ... i'm thinking maybe i need to try one thing at a time so i can properly access what works and what doesn't. As for the rug i thought i had decided it was a cert until i read that "step away from the rug" comment :D

I would definitely keep the rug, it adds a little pop of colour and lifts the neutral colour scheme, but I wouldn't go too bold and I wouldn't conceal the windows because it makes the room so lovely and light If it were me, I would add splashes of colour here and there accessorising with similar turquoise'y blue/orange'y red colours to pick out those in the rug and dot around some large glass containers with fruit in (edible art!!). A large mirror on the wall would look lovely with some sconces either side, on which you could sit some beautiful vibrantly coloured orchids/candles/vases etc. Then perhaps some shelves above the cupboard by the door with some brightly coloured glassware/jugs. You said you have some young children, what about framing some of their little pictures and putting them up under the shelves? I did something similar in my kitchen and it livens it up a bit (see below) I would also think about perhaps replacing the shade on the standard lamp with something to pick up with the rug, or perhaps match it to the ceiling one Have fun!

Hi. The curtain fabric is quite traditional so I would go for a contemporary take on an oriental rug, something picking up the dark red and cream of the curtains with the wall colour. this website may give you ideas. http://www.benuta.co.uk/oriental-rug-nain-6la-ca-1mio-kn-sqm-green-5-1.html There are different ways of placing the rug but personally I like all front feet on as it really zones the area. To do that, the sofas would need to be pulled away from the walls and the leather towards the door if there's room? I agree with natalie re coffee table. I would also add a couple of cushions with purple trim or a pattern to the leather sofa. I'm not sure where you are in the country but this place may also be worth a try http://www.rugsofpetworth.co.uk/decorative/

You have some lovely ideas Jane, you definitely have an eye for design. I love your log burner, perfect for those cosy winter evenings. In terms of the wall colour I think a nice deep blue - the Little Greene paint company do a great Royal Navy colour I believe it’s colour 257,which would look fabulous. I personally think the blue would work on a feature wall with the remaining walls in a more subtle tone, like an off white or very light grey as darker tones can make the space look smaller. I like the idea of combining two types of chairs, I think this concept truly works - Vitra have been doing this within their lifestyle shots for a long time. I have had the pleasure of visiting the Vitra factory and campus based in Basel, Switzerland as part of my Vitra training and the love and craftsmanship put into each piece is truly phenomenal. A super addition to any home. I love your choice of using the Vitra DSW and DAW chairs, they are super comfortable and durable, a true classic that deserves your investment. With regards to dining tables, I think an Oak table will work brilliantly alongside the items you are working towards, I especially think it will tie in with your floor and kitchen area. Have you seen the Vitra EM Dining Table? The EM table was designed by Jean Prouvé at the beginning of the 1950s for the 'Maison-Tropique' project. With every single detail governed by its construction, the table follows the aesthetics of necessity. It illustrates the force vectors and static connections more commonly seen in the context of civil engineering works. EM = Entretroise Métallique. This table will sit perfectly within your space and work fabulously with the chairs you have been looking at. Like I have previously said you cannot go far wrong with Vitra; their brand ethics and the lifespan of the products are truly second to none. We have the EM table online if you wish to look at this in further detail. https://www.nest.co.uk/product/vitra-em-table There is also another company which manufacture some wonderful Oak extending Dining Tables, called Case furniture. They are a London based furniture brand and they work alongside designers like Matthew Hilton and Shin Azumi. An in-particular table that springs to mind for your home is the Cross extending table. The Cross extending table has received an Elle Decoration Award for Best in Furniture, won the Homes & Gardens Classic Design Award and was awarded the Design Guild Mark in 2008. Made from solid wood with a veneered chamfered edged top, it has two extendable leaves to fit the entire family. https://www.nest.co.uk/product/case-furniture-cross-extending-dining-table We currently have a sale on the entire Vitra & Case furniture collections at the moment. Our Summer sale ends in 6 days to make sure you don’t miss out! Check out our site for some great inspiration. Alternatively I am always an email away. My email is Ashlee@nest.co.uk, I am more than happy to help you with any further interior advise or product specification. I hope my input and advice is helpful to you Jane. Have a wonderful day, Hope to speak to you again soon. Ashlee