Hi Fairway Style Living, Thank you again for taking the time to help me! If I use the full width rod right across the window what happens is that it will have to be slightly higher than the actual shutters, otherwise I will not be able to open them (I don't open them much, but need to do for window cleaning, etc.). Part of what you see is the 2.5" frame of the shutter. Won't having it right across the shutter cut into the look of the architecture by having the darker colour go right through it? That is a very good point regarding the colour of the rod. I was going with the champagne so that it would go with the bookshelf that is in the room directly across (my office) from the dining room. There is a point where you can see into each of them at the same time so I thought I had to coordinate :). The hardware on the unit is champagne. I am meeting with the drapery person this week to pick another rod, so I can absolutely go with our suggestion and not change it. (That will make her very happy). However I would like to see what you say about the rod going directly across the white shutters and up slightly therefore it will go across the actual window part. I like the idea very much of the height of the drapes being at the base of the fanlight. I am not sure about the rod cutting through the shutters though?? Can you just confirm your thoughts on that part for me.

So much depends on what feeling you'd like the space to have. Energetic? Serene? Warm? Cool? The setup you have now is very classic and will go with many types of artwork. Link Link Edited to add that you should get the largest size you can (within reason) if you only do one piece of art. Too-small art is the lamest ;) And +1 for a chandelier. Do you want to continue with your midcentury modern style?

What is the ceiling height, and can we see the whole room?

We're waiting for photos and possibly a floor plan.