Denita, thanks for the article. Beth H, I am glad you were able to find it. On my computer the rye color actually looks tan (and the pearl looks gray!) That is why I need some outside input. I do like the details on the example houses -- but this was an insurance job, after a tree fell on the house, and unplanned and therefore I had no money for adding details unfortunately (the contractor & I did talk about possibilities). I had to replace the roof, siding, shutters, porch columns and slab. I did have him add wider trim around the porch and garage, and the windows. I could paint the inner windows a dark color -- they are vinyl but should hold a good paint. I am attaching a picture of the house as it looked after the tree damage, with the old shutters in place. The shutters were original to the house -- do you all think it looks better without? (to me it still looks rather naked without them, and without the tree!) I am still hoping that someone will come along who can photoshop in the different possibilities. I would especially like to see Kathy's suggestion. I do appreciate all of your input!

What colors do you like? Can you take a photo from further back? I ask because maybe it is the lighting but I am not loving that backsplash with your beautiful cabinets. Your river white granite has some pretty garnets in the color. It might just be the angle and light in that corner that you took the photo. Once a see a better picture I can help with some color ideas... What are the colors of the other rooms? Is there a color that you use in drapes, curtains, chair cushions, table cloth, or any place else. What is the floor color? Does this room open to other rooms? Some ideas...

Steel, vinyl, LP Lap, Hardiplank?

I can see your challenge here. My go-to white paint is Benjamin Moore's distant gray. It is a really neutral white that doesn't have any cool or warm undertones. I would use that as your general paint color throughout. It looks like you do have an opportunity to paint the dining wood an accent color if you wanted to. Check out farrow and ball, their colors are stunning and you can't go wrong. A little pricey but worth it for a small area. To add color in the areas painted white I would accessorize with plants and statement artwork. You could even have the kids paint a few brush strokes or a simple geometric shape on a large canvas to create a chic, Scandinavian-inspired minimalist piece. Hope this helps!