The biggest problem with the original space was the lack of countertop/work space. Moving the refrigerator will definitely help. I'm guessing you'll add a dishwasher too? Maybe a mini (24") so you can also have a narrow cabinet for baking sheets or a pull-out spice rack. Looks like you might have room across from the kitchen on the opposite wall for a 12 in deep floor to ceiling pantry, the width of the kitchen for extra storage. And a small rolling cart with a butcher block top could be stored by the window, but brought out into the center for an extra work area. Depends on how much you need to store, and how much you cook. If you're in New York or something and don't cook much. I'd keep things pretty minimal.

Love the color of the walls and that wonderful paneled wall. I agree that the tv is in the right place on the paneled wall. Here is a floor plan which may work for you. Use the space that is not under the catwalk above as the seating area. This way the walk thru will be under the lower ceiling. Tuck a 87" wide sofa with a chaise end on the right of the fireplace with a console behind. Install wall sconces for lighting at the console instead of lamps. Lose the big lamp (it's ver nice) and use smaller scaled floor lamps. Get a matching 66" loveseat and angle off the sofa. this will create a more open layout and not so boxed off from the kitchen. Add two matching swivel chairs. The coffee table is a 48" diameter with four round ottomans or floor pillows. The rug is 12 x 15 so that it anchors the furniture and includes the paneled wall and the fireplace into one cohesive area. Along the staircase wall is 10" deep low cabinet or bookcase up to the ceiling for games, books, etc. Something like an Ikea Pax with frosted doors, simple and functional for storage. Hope this helps.

If the room is super narrow, I'd put the TV on the wall between the kitchen doors, couch opposite it under the windows (don't set it right against them- leave some space for the heating) and get some light-blocking curtains if the glare is an issue during the day. If space allows, you could square up your entertainment stuff on the shell wall, put your couch opposite it, but place it about 2/3 of the room away from it. Depending on the width of the room, your MCM chairs could be angled facing the couch conversationally or both placed under the window side by side.... lots of things you can do! You can put your put the piano on the wall by the kitchen with a LARGE colorful (or black and white if that's what you love) art piece hung over it to make a statement. Doesn't have to be expensive- grab a 20% off coupon for bed bath and beyond 😜! And you still have for an entryway built-in by the door if you want. Your bookshelves might be able to go by the front door. 🤷‍♀️

Hello LB, Can we get a better picture of the layout and measurements of the rooms, especially the one that is going to be the living room? Do you already have furniture or are you going to buy? How many people will be using the room daily and how many guests do you want to accommodate? MAE