Sounds like you could use some pattern to break up those solid, dark colors. Do you have any pictures of the rooms, that would help a lot.

Here are some pic's. The chair in one photo that shows a dark blue is going to be recovered in a tan small dot material.

Great, thanks for the pictures. I agree it would be helpful to paint the walls a beige color, consider Bleeker Beige HC-80 by Benjamin Moore. Now for your curtains, I would stick with the colors that you already have. Try to find a small scaled pattern with tans, teals, and browns. It seems like you like a traditional style, so whatever pattern suits you is fine.
Let me know if you need further information. Charmean Neithart

Thank you so much. Sometimes it's like not seeing the forest for the trees for me.

HI - Maybe you should treat yourself to some new furniture instead of putting money into recovering. Your furniture looks very dark and dated 80's. There are some beautiful sofa's you would like now. It might be time - if you can afford. Sometimes people hang onto the same look and things far too long.