Thanks to everyone who responded with their pictures and comments. Mavsfan, those ceilings are looking fantastic! I think the different designs you've used throughout your new home give it such character and charm. I really appreciate the pictures. Wonbyherwits, the molding in your room is beautiful. Our builder uses what they refer to as double crown molding because of the "wow" factor and also because he feels with the higher ceilings, a single piece of crown gets lost in the shuffle. After seeing how you added the extra four inches to your molding and the effect you get from it, his opinion is one I would echo and do the same in our home. Worthy, after hearing of your experience, I think we'll go ahead with the crown and have it installed now than adding it later and ending up incurring additional costs (we all know how easily that happens and how quickly those $$$ add up). Speaking of $$$, do you have any idea what it might cost or should cost approximately to add a coffered ceiling to a 14' x 19' dining room. It is rectangular in shape so there are not unusual cuts if that would be a factor. Thanks for any help you can give us. Luckymom, the trim work in the pic you posted is droolworthy and has given me a few more ideas--thanks!

There seems to be 2 schools of thought on this dilemma. Most decorators seem to be in the camp as cawaps. Keep art at eye level. Keep the room grounded. The second camp uses the space. I am squarely in the second camp, but do think that the space can get overwhelming if there is too much going on. Keep it simple. Here is a link to a page that provides some ideas for decorating tall walls. https://www.tidbitsandtwine.com/28-creative-decorating-ideas-for-tall-walls/ I love this picture:

Stay classic with SW Alabaster. It is a lovely home with some dark pieces already and this will allow things to look classic, clean and bright and show off any artwork too! Best wishes!

No, unfortunately. i think something just a bit larger and hanging lower will do it. there are 65 inches between the couches and the fireplace is wider than that space. thank you for all the advice.