That's all a matter of preference. Not seeing the tile, I generally prefer diagonal. For some reason I prefer not to have all the lines in the same direction, so having the tile at an angle to the wall and cabinets just looks better to me. But some people don't like that at all. There's some good discussion on this in Bathrooms if you want to do a search and read while waiting. No feelings about grout lines other than I know I can't keep them clean, so I would go small. Not sure if these are regular tiles or vinyl, but for regular tiles make sure you ask about lippage. That's when the tiles are not even heights, less/no lippage is better, but harder to do. I don't know all the technical stuff, but good info on Bathrooms about this too. Maybe just bringing it up will encourage them to be on their toes?

Olychick, great idea about the painters tape. I'll do that. I too thought about a vertical picture, but it seems the scale would be small given the wall size, for most pictures I could find. Plus, this is the picture I love, love, so I hope I want to use it very much. I think I'll take the suggestion for something tall, like a floor plant on the right of both chairs to balance. Thank you, Sheila! I wanted this room to be my sanctuary, and reflect who I am, and it's coming together!

I also happen to like sectionals, but in your living, have to agree with others-will be blocking movement, dictating around, and in the end you won't get the comfy vibe and the great function you rightfully want to get sectionals work when put in the corner..:) mostly so-maybe my idea is completely out of place-but would you consider making your family room your TV watching space?I know you have other plans..and of course depends on needs/wants of your family -you know them, I don't. I can see there's not enough wall space there..in our case, I made the opening to the family room smaller to account for TV placement. and we continue to happily use our sectional (it's not like I'm in love with it, but as I'm a lounge-y person..so yeah, works for me.). Also quieter spot to watch TV if one wishes so If it's completely out of question-I agree with AnnKN's suggestion..the arrangement will be much more flexible, that way

need help and suggestions how can I design and buy appropriate furniture for this open concept floor plan with young kids