Not sure where this is located, but clearly there are regional influences that should be considered in designing the interior as well as the climactic impact on the exterior. I think on the outside, I'd just make a durable walkway to the porch and then add seating there. Given how fragile arid plants can be, I wouldn't do anything to encourage guests to spend time in the yard at all...unless you make a specific area, say a stoned circle with chairs. But to start out as a b&b, I'd probably put my money elsewhere. On the interior, esp for the public spaces, I'd probably do a neutral backdrop and let the accent colors come from the furnishings and accessories. If I wanted to warm up the space in the bedroom area, I'd think about doing maybe an accent wall in a saturated color to stand up to all the wood.

I tried out some options, some suggested by you all, and am curious what you think. I would like to keep the Stuart Swan chairs but probably have to let go of the ottoman if I move them to the living room. And then we may do a sofa with upholstered ottoman in the dining room for TV watching. Or a sectional with a left arm chaise (chaise closest to DR entrance, I mean; but that would make the entrance to the room a little less open). Thoughts? Option A, couch at window and chairs under piano window. Imagine a slim table between the chairs, a square coffee table and poufs opposite the chairs. Side table and lamp where pharmacy lamp is. Rug under chair & sofa legs. Bookcase goes. Option B (below): Couch under the piano window. Imagine rug under sofa legs and chair legs, slim table between chairs or C table on left one and a square coffee table with poufs opposite chairs or couch. Matching side tables and lamps on couch ends. Slim pharmacy lamp on left chair (if no side table). Bookcase goes. Out of option A & B - do you like either? Or do you prefer my earlier post with the two chairs like so, let's call it option C:

here is the proposed exterior. We don't love the big blank wall in the front to the right of the window. Also, it seems like a lot of zig zags across the roof line.

This is the house we are moving into. I am trying to start planning how to place furniture as it is somewhat awkward. Ideas welcome, also any advice on how to update this fireplace, take off the white trim? Paint it black? I will be adding more modern black lightning and hardware as well. Thanks in advance!