The description of the bench says 18" high, but I think it's more like 17.5. Hard to measure accurately because of the tufting. Regarding the table, it must be counter height so I can use my existing stools. They're padded white leather-look, just like in the picture I posted above. The table is 36 x 36 x36, which would be the perfect size, and I liked the chrome legs. But the "wood" top looks really cheap. I don't think I like a round table with these stools. I also don't like glass tables much. Any other recommendations for a small square counter height table?

For privacy on the neighbour side, think down instead of up! You can add hanging baskets with trailing flowering vines that will disrupt the view enough. Your neighbours might like the idea so much that they do the same, and you'll have double the screening! For the layout, I would put the grill over by the railing on the brick wall with a counter next to it between the door and grill. Are there small kids in your life? If not, an L shaped sectional with one leg on the view side and the other extending toward the door (leaving 3-4 ft behind it for access to the stairs) would be a nice way to enclose the fireplace while still allowing good views and some seperation from neighbours. Add a chair in the corner to the left of the fireplace. That will give the cook a place to sit and relax and visit between burger flips :)

Paint the whole room a light, neutral color. Take the woodwork white. Paint the bookcases to match the wall color so it blends into the wall. Limewash the fireplace and add lights on either side if at all possible. Add a decorative screen as well. Switch out the ceiling fan for a large diameter drum shade light that is flush to the ceiling on a dimmer. Look at putting a graphic wallcovering on the tv wall. Computer area under pass-thru to kitchen or create a small reading. See attached floor plans for conceptual ideas since I don’t have actual dimensions.

Well, I painted an old dresser velveeta cheese orange when I was in college (it was a $5 mis mix paint can at the store), so I guess you’d say, all my adult life? I wear almost all black, white or navy, so at least I don’t clash when I sit on my sofa! It helps that my husband very much loves color too. Our bedroom is simple though- white bedding, natural wood furniture (antiques and modern), ivory drapes, medium grey walls and a vintage karastan wool rug in shades of teal and faded reds. Serene for sleeping and cheery for daytime. Honestly my living room is not for everyone. But it suits us perfectly. If your husband isn’t on board, you can start small and build off your great decorative pillows. Add some great coffee table books by getting a few from the library to see how they look in your room. Keep the furniture for now and build slowly so you don’t scare anyone or make a huge investment you regret. If you make a built in, use your accessories you already have. Have fun! And shop at resale places for vintage pieces that don’t require huge investments.