I think having a combined dining room and library is such a great idea and your new table and chairs look fantastic in there! Congrats on such great finds for the dining room and the LR. Lynn

Okay, I did not get the Kelly Ripa dining set. Thanks for the feedback - very helpful! I got rid of the china and china cabinet and decided to make do with what I have for now. Eventually I will get new buffet/sideboard and table and chairs. Anyway, here are some photos. Looking for idea for the middle of the table. Disregard the stuff in the right hand corner - was cleaning things out and forgot I put it there. I am thinking of copying this for the center of table: Thoughts? Other suggestions? Thanks!

Thank you for your response. I think I have to figure out a balance between keeping things neutral and still colorful... Right now there is no play room (we tried), the kids just play with us in the living room/dining area. I also have a just turned 1y old, so don't want to buy anything too big that little one could bump into. All of this being said, for now I'm thinking of investing in a solid office desk (that could be used as a small dining table, more like a breakfast or coffee nook for later, or even to hold a large grand piano). Or to host zoom meetings for my older kid. I love the idea of a dining table, but don't think it will be used as much. Also, the kids (even those visiting) love running around the open space and the living area and a lot of the kitchen is used for toy and book storage :D Lots of people love our rug, but I know it overwhelms the rest of the space :D I tried toning down other décor like pillows, throws etc. so just the rug stands out. But I haven't been able to incorporate that color across rest of the area.... Should I let the rug move where the dining area should be, so the kids can actually use it as their playroom, and the color is at the center? Or should I leave it in the living area....

Thanks :) I love this house because it’s so warm and inviting. The previous owner hung art in that framed area, I’ll have to figure out what to put there!