So I've since found out from my builder that the 9' doors that I need won't actually look like those I just posted, but instead ... here's an example of the simpler one from above, Option 2. I do not like it at all. I have no real need for a 9' garage door except for the fact that I didn't pay attention to the garage when reviewing my plans and now that is what I have, so it's too late to change it to a nice 8' door. With 12' ceilings downstairs -- we opted for the taller doors for scale, but I don't think it was necessary. Is the 9' door design as awful as I think it is???

yes, I saw that. benjes, I didn't mean to suggest that your comment was for just me. I did suggest she move the photos, I just didn't say 'they don't belong'. I'm on the fence with it. If one doesn't have any worthy art, and the family photos are done in a way that look good, coordinate w/one another and properly sized, then I suppose you could do it. But for over the sofa, I still prefer one or two large pieces of actual art. or a mirror. and I'm loving this danish chair w/the teal cushions

Don't have the blinds down and then say there isn't enough light. Drapery panels will be better for this room and if necessary blinds that pull up instead of down. Any mirror should be at either head of the table or 90 degrees to the window to catch the best light., but it looks like there is no room at one end of the table for anything.

@Beverly i will post more pictures later that are close up and a little clearer. the bones of the house have a french-mediterranean vibe more than any other style i have seen. there are several arches and french-style accents that i will try to capture for you. the house (before the garage addition) looked very similar to your second pic, it had a flat roof/patio like that, but i had to take it down and rebuild that part, unfortunately. thank you for posting pics, i like the look of the last one.