What is that structure underneath the curtains? Is it possible to have floor-length curtains in a color similar to the wall, although honestly that color doesn't do the room any favors. I would paint it the same color as the other wall, which will make the room look larger and more cohesive. . To make this room look comfortable at all you need an area rug or two. You need a coffee table and some side tables with table lamps because the lighting you have is terribly harsh and cold. Those chairs are not attractive, I'm sorry to say, but you can at least find some nice, colorful pillows to spiff them up. The black couch is puzzling too; it doesn't go with anything. Try pillows in nice colors there too. I just went back and read that you're happy to change the furniture, Yes, please! I would not pick leather, and would choose lighter colors, preferably fabric. That wall and ceiling lighting has to go; it will make everyone look horrible and hurt your eyes. You need less bulky pieces of furniture. Try turning the couch toward the TV because I think you can see it from there, assuming there is enough room to get around the couch. This is a really awkward space. You definitely need pictures on the wall to brighten this room and area rugs, as mentioned.

You need to think about this as two rectangular rooms, not one big L-shaped room. One option would be to put the living area on the left, in the 130.5"x234" space. Then the 9'x12' space by the stairs (and close to the kitchen) is a dining area. From the light fixture in the photo, it looks like that's what the previous owner did (light fixture over dining table). If you don't need a dining room, think about what other function you might need, but regardless, think about that space as a separate area. The remaining space (about 11 x 19.5') is a bit long and skinny for just one seating area, so don't try to fill up the whole space with one conversation group (or TV viewing area, as the case may be). Set up your seating so it feels comfortable and use the left over space for... a library, a piano, a game table, or another small seating area. I've got one corner of my room devoted to a cat tree. I would think about putting my TV on either the 130.5" wall or the 164" wall. Lots of wall space with no windows opposite to create reflections.

Great, thanks! I would use a round table that can extend to oval when you have company in the dining area, right over near the kitchen. One chair backing into the corner, rather than a chair with its back to the kitchen door. The desk can stay right where you have it in this photo. Sofa on the wall with the windows with a side table at each end. Two chairs across from it with a table between them. I sketched a pic but can't post comments on my phone, boo :(

I like the idea of a couch and two accent chairs. With a sectional, your room would barely have room for one accent chair and it would feel very cramped. I like the arrangement in your second photo best. Do you need the ottoman? The ottoman seems to be taking up space perfect for a small coffee table.