I vote for hardwood or engineered wood through the whole space, including the kitchen. Opening the wall would be nice, but I suspect your appliances are arrayed along that wall? I'd paint the wall the same pale color as the living space, and hang a really big mirror on the wall if you can't open it. Then you open the wall visually, and reflect the light from the sliders back into the space. (I know...me and mirrors. They are great manipulators of space, particularly when you commit to making them big!)

Hi Dereck! I definitely don't think wood tiles will make your space look "cold", if done right--there are so many different tones and types available, but you can definitely fool people into thinking they're real wood! There will always be people who disagree, but ultimately it's your space and you should get what you want! I personally love the look of concrete flooring, however, some people shudder at the idea of it. I found these photos online of spaces with wood tiles--hopefully this helps. Best of luck with your project!

Once you have furniture in your space the chair rail will not be noticed on that side. It will not be the focal point. Your furnishings and artwork will be what people will see. Also, spaces that are completely balanced are not nearly as interesting as having a little asymmetry here and there imo.

Thanks so much for your reply. I was trying to coordinate and yet not compete with the adjoining dining room rug which has similar colors but much bolder. If you zoom into the picture below you can see a patch of it in the right hand corner opposing the sofa. Your suggestion are really nice and appreciated. I see that you used a 9x12 rug. Does you think a 10x14 would be too big?