Hi all. Time to start rehabbing the garage full of finds for the future Florida nest. I need help thinking through the dining space.

This is a townhouse and the dining space is central with no window. It is small, about 11 x 10. Open to large living area one way, and the wall has open arch to kitchen area.

I have a round teak table 44 inches that has two leaves. I really like the curve of the pedestal.

The elevator opens to the dining area. Because the space is so small, I wanted a dining bench against the right wall so that the table is as far out of traffic as possible. bench faces the elevator opening, table ahead. Entry like almost. After looking for a year I finally found a bench I think will work well.

Just tore down the upholstery and now I am paralyzed... I have to decide whether to paint and what fabric to use.

I want the space to be light and relaxing and low maintenance. Since there is no dining window I am wary of leaving the pieces wood. Wood seems more formal and less 'coastal'. Each piece has it's share of dings, and repair would be easier if I paint. I am conflicted though.

For fabric I have some lovely oatmeal linen (that is really a micro fibre so easy care). Color is a shade lighter than the sofas in the main area. Wood floors, pale blue grey for the walls, simple white window treatments. Color will come from artwork, rugs, pillows, accent pieces, etc.

Questions:
# 1 Am I going way too trite, too neutral?

I'll need a couple dining chairs.. (I have several sets of MCM, but none are comfortable and they are too dark and the backs seem too high; I'll sell them rather then paint them. I have some nice French Provincial, but they are too fussy. I have some nice sturdy ladder back schoolhouse chairs, but they have no fabric, all wood.
# 2 What shape/style side chair might be best? Maybe something simple with a curve?

Last, all this talk of library dining spaces has me considering putting shelving on the wall against the bath.
I had been thinking to put a large mirror or shiny piece above a skinny console there to bounce light around.
# 3 Shelving vs console?

Thanks!