id get rid of the lamps and leave the glass candle sticks on the other side. maybe add some color to that area with vases less is more there.

I know you dont want to hear this but that chandelier is very heavy. it would be one way to really lighten up the space. Another would be to add a large area rug to break up all the brown. lastly painting the room maybe a pale blue, to get out of the yellow/brown family you are in. those windows are awesome. Also I assume the paintings L/R of sideboard are cherished, if so I would remove them fro that space and hang them together where the current framed art is. Reason being that side of the room is really heavy compared to the other.

I would consider one larger lamp instead of two and then balance it with decor. With two, you don’t want to go too large.

I agree that a light colored rug would make all the difference in your room. I am very visual, so like to mock up things to try to visualize changes before I commit, so I would use a bedspread or sheet on the floor under table so you vould see how much it would brighten the room.

Option 1: New chandelier that is airier, and coordinting wall sconces on buffet wall. Option 2: New chadelier as mentioned. 2 larger lamps on buffet, and low floral centerpiece, or special china serveware piece like a soup tureen on buffet. Candlesticks on table.

Lighter colored walls and a light colored carpet would help brighten up the room.

Can you get an electrician and add some recessed lights? On a dimmer they would illuminate the dark corners.

I prefer art in dining rooms over mirrors. I would change out fixture for a whiter lighter linear fixture. Select favorite art for over buffet. Then flank with a pair of light looking lamps. Then a long low floral arrangement for center of table. Add bowl or tray to center of buffet.

Can you get some more wide angle views of the room? You have some pretty colors in your art, and the window is beautiful. Yes, a rug would make a big difference, as would curtains in a lighter color. I think we can come up with something fabulous without you having to spend/do a whole lot.

Here’s rough mock up. All budget friendly items.

See items below

Thank you for the suggestions. I really appreciate the feedback.

I like the idea of adding an area rug - I am assuming that would be in a light colour. Also good with adding lighter curtains.

Question: if I paint a lighter colour, would I keep the lower wainscotting light as well? Same colour? Add a shade darker on the bottom wainscotting?

@ShadyWillowFarm I will send wide angle photos tomorrow when it is ligher.

My only concern about a rug, is sizing. You need at least 24” push back from table edge for chairs to stay on the rug. See if you have that room. A lighter multi tone rug would brighten things up a lot.

Actually, 36-42" larger than the table top is better for chair scoot space and to allow someone to allow someone to exit the table without everyone having to move. You don't want chairs falling off the edge, nor do you want the rug to run into the buffet or baseboards.

Keep the wainscoting light for now. Choose a rug that will complement your art - can you get a photo of each piece?

Attaching close up of the paintings (artwork by my young daughters). The room is 12 feet wide, and the table is 42". I like the idea of changing the light fixture and changing the curtains. Also like the idea of adding a light carpet. All input greatly appreciated.

So much wood in that room! Yes, add a colorful area rug and exchange the mirror for a large piece of art, instead. Re: the lamps, pretty ceramic, glass, or brass lamps would offset all the heavy furniture.

I'd also think about replacing the head chairs with upholstered ones to soften the look.

Transitional Dining Room · More Info