Sounds like the house is new to you. I'd live with what's there for a while and see how well it meet your needs. Once you remove a mature planting it's gone. Can be very pricey to get large plants and trees. Go smaller and you'll save money and maybe even have a stronger planting, but you'll have to deal with the lack of privacy while things get established. I'd be inclined to remove anything dead. Trim back areas drastically overgrown. Add color via annuals or easy care perennials below the limbed up shrubs in the ground or in pots. Then sit back and assess where you like the coverage and where you need a change. youll get better advice once you identify what you have. Sorry I'm not sure.

I'm definitely going to keep art above the mantle and I've sure been beat over the head on no stacked stone. :) Yes everdebz, the rug stays and would clash with the stone. Everyone agrees (including my wife the boss) that i need a simple tile. -- Now I'll just have to settle on a color. katinparidise - like the 2nd photo too on the tile color. a little warmer. vases an option. Also like the other ideas up to the pillow. We just got new pillows but you are right that they would look good.

That is really not a built- in....it is a closet..and i would use it that way....add a door and make the shelves shallower toward the back....so everything easier to get at...while leaving some space in the front for taller things...like a broom or a dust mop...or to hang things on the sidewalls...since the wall space is not equal on each side...there is no pressure for both sides to match...leaving that sunny corner for some pretty plants or a very cool arched lamp that will swivel out to a small but comfy chair in front of the window...for reading or just watching the fun everyone is having in this family room...i also agree that shiplap is ideal for that wall (and could even incorporate a hidden door for the closet if desired) ...giving the room a little more relaxed feel for the more casual use that is intended..to me shiplap is timeless..(while enjoying more popularity in the moment)...it will always look good