I also have a 9" lower for large trays, etc. that works well for me. I also have two 9" floor to ceiling cabinets. One has a pullout in the large lower section that I really like for pantry items and the other is more in the laundry area and holds a broom closet in the lower section and the AC filters in the top portion.

The first thing that strikes me is that your curtain rod is too short which is why you have to push the curtains to the side which kills the vibe in this room. Get longer rods and linen-type curtains that are fairly similar to the wall color which will give the room warmth without looking busy. Please make sure that your area rug is as large as possible because that will make this room look fabulous. Little bitty rugs do not. I would choose an Oriental rug in warm colors because it will hide little accidents, at least until you can address them. I would definitely get a sofa, so great for cuddling with your husband and kids. I would place it in front of the window for good lighting for reading but also because it gives you the best sight lines into other areas of your home. Instead of a coffee table consider a large ottoman with a lid so that you have plenty of storage space. Please don't buy a brown or black leather couch. They look dated and are so difficult to decorate around. Try beige or caramel, with two chairs in contrasting colors, perhaps a nice blue or green, colors that will be in the carpet hopefully. You can also use the carpet colors to choose pillows for your soft furniture. Find some nice pictures to put on the walls, a large green plant, a bookcase or two (books are a must in a room) and side tables for lamps. By now your room will look gorgeous and be pretty well furnished and, most important of all, will be comfortable and fun to be in.

Working full time with 3 little ones tends to prolong my projects. we built the faux sofa table and found some art and lamps. I got throw pillows for the couch (The covers haven’t arrived yet for 3 of them). Do you guys think all 4 feather pictures are too crowded between the lamps or will those look ok? I was considering blowing up some pics of my kids for the other wall If i can find other art that coordinates. Because the two walls are perpendicular to each other, does the art need to be a similar size on the other wall? Thank you!

Can you return it and get a smaller one? (I admit I think your fireplace wall is lovely and I personally wouldn't ruin it with a television. But I am a tiny minority who has lived without television for almost 30 years.) Is there another room in which to put it, or do you prefer to use this room for watching it?