I am not a big fan of the chinoiserie cabinet - I think it takes you away from the warm,sort of country french feeling you are creating. And for sure I don't see it in the same space as that corner hutch. Eclectic is fine, but sometimes too much and too many move from eclectic to perhaps jumbled. That said, if you decide on the cabinet, I hope you would consider putting it on the wall space between the dining and living areas, where you now have the console and candlesticks. I think the drama of the piece will be lost stuck in the alcove. Use the alcove for a built-in marble topped server and glass-front cabinet above, wine storage below, almost a built-in bar. Change the can light to a spot that you can direct on that space, and let all the barware shine and sparkle.

Squirrel - I haven't given up on rattan or wicker-- I just won't start with a piece. The dining room has woven bamboo and rattan chairs-- so it would tie the two rooms together. I have been threatening to get the malabar chair from PB until I get chairs -- but that's a pretty big chair and would take the place of one of the other chairs. I do like it though. PC - yes, to antique a mirror properly, you have to oxidize the back. There are techniques you can do to the front though. I am not convinced that's the best look for the room.. but it is in my back pocket. I can definitely paint the lower half of the wall (it isn't clear in the photos but the staircase wall has a ledge part way up and then a wall that goes to the roof. I have height issues-- I couldn't do it myself. Greenthumb hahah.. well I don't know if its the rug or the mirror but SOMETHING is making my butt look big. I hadn't heard of mirror mate before you mentioned it here. I looked it up and wow, so cool. I like the idea but it's going to cost me a lot. I was thinking of getting some barnwood to make the frame-- but mirror mate is sure simple! Thanks for the idea.. I am going to mull it over. I go back to work next week (after a month off) so time is going to soon be more valuable than money so it may still be my best option. Thanks so much -- you have each given me such great ideas and encouragement. So what do you think? Keep the leather chair or return it? I do rather like it on the fireplace wall but I love the other chairs too. I am torn. (My 6 yo nephew told me I "better not" return the leather chair. He looooooves it ha)

Well, I can help you halfway. I have cheetah print runner going up my curved staircase and the upstairs foyer is carpeted with it as well. I am so bummed I don't have a pic but I can tell you I love it and so does everyone - seriously, everyone - who sees it! I have had it installed for about three months now and I still love looking at it. I seriously doubt I will tire of it for a very long time. It looks fab with my red walls and doesn't compete with the Persian rugs in the front foyer. It is not a super small print yet it works with almost everything. Another plus is that is hides dirt and lint! It rarely looks like it needs vacuuming, even in a high traffic area. I have included a link to my pattern... Nicole Here is a link that might be useful: Stanton Carpet Serengeti in Wild Root

Well, I'm getting closer to a decision and leaning in the "keep it" direction. I need to get some tray ideas now to be absolutely sure I will like both how it works and functions. I'm thinking about 24" square (ottoman is 40" sq) and I like the idea of aged brass or silver as mtn suggested up thread. Not finding much in the square shape but have found a black low profile one that could work. Thoughts? Ideas where to search/shop? Etsy Tray in Black