It all depends! If you decide to add crown molding then it would probably look very elegant to have the ceiling a shade or two lighter than the walls.

If you decide not to go with the crown molding then I think the traditional thing would be a "white" ceiling but it doesn't have to be bright white. It can be an off white to compliment something in the room.

I would repaint the woodwork creamier. And I am agnostic on chair rails.

You keeping the carpet? If so, maybe you want a bit of that tone on the ceiling for balance. Not too much tho...but just to kind of even it out.

yes the carpet is staying. thanks for your feedback!

Off white for the ceiling. If your working w/a color card, use the lightest value. If not, take your wall color and have it lightened starting at 50%. Clients usually like 70%. Unless your papering or paneling under the chair rail, I would remove it. It distracts the eye, and has no architectural value.