I'm going to suggest you post your questions in the home decorating forum. I think you'll get lots of help there. to post pictures you have to upload them to a pic hosting website like photobucket. once they are there, copy the html code for the pic and paste it into the body of your message. It will just look like a bunch of text, but when you hit preview, you should see your picture. The folks on decorating forum will want pics for sure.

Hello Ellen Chang, With entrys & windows from all directions it's a little difficult to organize furniture without interrupting circulation. You could try making a more lounge seating setup w/ chairs & side tables by the fireplace for comfy quiet time & use the den area as a more traditional living room set up. You could also try mounting the TV above the fireplace, using a couch & console table to separate it from the, 'den,' and make the den more of a catch-all space w/ a small craft table & place for shoes for when people come in off the deck. In general, try smaller pieces and round pieces when available, with multiple points of access this will protect shins from sharp edges. Something like what's in this video could also help: Feel free to message me on my profile if you have any more questions. Thanks, -frank Build Beautiful

Hello there. My living room will be tiled in a Doral Night Tile (actually entire first floor). What would you suggest for a contemporary tile/paint/covering for the existing fireplace? My living room is not a high ceiling one. Very much appreciated! Doral Night Tile Link Originally, i wanted THIS to cover my fireplace, but now that it's on my floor.. not sure.. Thank you!

@Patricia Colwell is right, embrace whatcha got! Yes, a rug centered on the fireplace, of course. Good idea. And pull the furniture away from the wall a few inches, it doesn't have to be a large gap. I have another idea, place a game table and chairs to the right of the fireplace. Already got one in your den/basement? Then make a cozy reading nook with an easy chair, bookshelves, and a floor reading lamp.