I would get a rug at least 8x10 (legs on rug). A tone on tone light colored rug would help lighten up the look.

I would drape both windows to soften the space. nothing too wild, complment the rug choice.

What's going on upstairs has no bearing.

I would raise the rod above the window and extended beyone, so when open they enhance the window opening, not restrict the natural light. The furniture is so dark, lightening up drpaes and rug will help. nothing wrong with layering blinds and drapes... I would modernize with grommet panels, but you know what your own style is. Good Luck.

I would bring block colors like blue or coral, or yellow.

Some inspro with blue.

or

Yes, this is actually a really old picture I had saved on my phone. I have since gotten a very light wood coffee table with a black metal base and am in the process of looking for a new accent table. I have narrowed the wall color down to either Sherwin Williams Natural Linen or Natural Tan (just waiting on area rug and fabric samples for my barstools to come in before making my final decision) and I’m thinking either solid white drapes or something that blends in with the new wall color. I’m going for beige, black and white but want some pops of blue. The living, kitchen and dining are in the same space. kitchen has beige corian countertops, white cabinets with black hardware and appliances, all the light fixtures are black.

So rug size, 8x10 and front legs only?

For rug front legs or 1/3 of furniture.