Hi. I love the upcycling! I agree with feioi. I'd go for an inky blue on the bottom cabinets ( and the chairs) and a lighter neutral ( creamy greige) on top with an even lighter neutral on the walls. This kitchen by mowlem is in Farrow and ball railings and purbeck stone. I'd go for a white worktop, preferably a marble effect. I love the idea of copper handles but there don't seem to be that many around and could work out pretty expensive. I've found one stockist but ebay may be worth a try.http://allhandlesandpulls.co.uk/handlesandpulls/cabinet-pull-handle-7032-polished-copper-beslag-design.html if not, I'd look at chrome and nickle as they'd also look great against both an inky blue and the red. I've just changed all of mine for £150 and it makes a massive difference. I'd actually remove that ŵall hung unit. I'd also look at a floor lamp in the corner by the sofa with a Few prints over the sofa, maybe some typography, a newspaper art and then something modern with a splash of red to tie in with the table and sofa? and a large mirror above the table to bounce some light around. Add a navy geometric throw, this one is from John Lewis with some grey, navy, white cushions. Do you actually need curtains or blinds for privacy, security etc? I would be tempted to at least do away with the kitchen blind to let light in.

I suppose not wanting to part with things: "I might need that in the future"...

its rain pattering on the skylight window, it's soft lamplight, its mutual comfortableness in a friendly silence, it's shutting the front door behind you, getting into your socks & slippers and eating a bowl of chicken broth by the fire, it's the glow of home lights driving in the drive after a long day at work...

Hi Helen, If you would like any help or advice with your banister or other stair parts please take a look at our website http://www.shawstairs.com/ or email us at info@shawstairs.com As for your extra floor space maybe you could get a nice plant or a colourful vase with some flowers to sit in that area nicely. Thanks Shaw Stairs Ltd.