Thanks Ensign! The magnolia comment was just about a temporary measure as the majority of the room is already magnolia and we have some leftover from recent touch ups to our rental. Definitely won't be magnolia long term. We originally had a room by room plan, but got waylaid as we had to rip out carpets and wallpaper from upstairs immediately to get rid of smells. Downstairs we haven't touched the kitchen/utility, although we have had to strip both halls, again due to smell. With the exception of dealing with the floor, our bedroom will be finished first as it doesn't need any tradesman input. Everything else will have to be done in bits and pieces as and when we can afford to get trades in to plaster/ deal with pointing outside causing damp and so on.

You could add a number of things to help bring life to the room. You have chosen the perfect muted colour scheme that will complement lots of art work and colours. From your photos I would say you could add a large mirror above the fire place- you could go for something to complement the period of the property and fireplace or something slightly more industrial would work as it looks like you are already mixing contemporary and period with your choices of furniture and finishes. Art will be a huge help as well. Choose some large and smaller pieces to compliment the size of the room- you look like you enjoy your music and media (from the large tv and speakers) maybe some repro or original posters of favourite films? Or framed vinyl covers of you favourite albums. Pick things that you aesthetically connect with. Art is personal and should be something you enjoy every time you look at it, so pick pieces because you like them. It doesn’t need to be expensive. You could also think about a statement clock in the room as well. Lots of options I would say. Do not feel limited by a particular colour scheme with the art- go with things you enjoy looking at. For the sofa -with throws-mimic nature- stick to earthy tones grey browns you can pick up lots of cosy throws in these colours or animal Hyde type colours or actual Hyde’s...and once you have chosen your art- find cushions that are different sizes and textures (not leather) to help soften the look of the sofa and draw the eye away from its shape and on to the cushions! Or go with the nature theme and embrace the animal Hyde’s colours and it will all tie in with the leather. Of course these suggestions depend on personal preference but there are lots of ideas on houzz and pictures that can help with inspiration...hope my suggestions are of use!!

@sonia I'm leaning towards grey walls too. My bedroom is going to be goose dawn and teal tension (I think!) so I'm wondering about doing the living room in the same greytl bulk buy paint! It's a bit darker than polished pebble though. I like those pics and I have a rose gold standing lamp already... Here with my desk (grey and rose gold)

Hi Ross APT Renovation here, We are a design and build company that specialises in home renovations and extensions. We would love to be a part of this project if you are looking for designers and builders. We can take care of all aspects of your build from the design, even 3D renders to show what the finish extension will look like and all the way to the build and finish of the extension. If you would like to have a look at some of our projects you can head to https://www.aptrenovation.co.uk/our-projects/ or you can give us a call on 0207 223 6417 and we can set up a free consultation to start on your new home extension. I trust you will stay safe in these trying times and looking forward to hearing from you. Kind regards, APT Renovation Ltd