This is an enticing blank canvas. Are you planning to put lighting over the table? For some reason my mind's eye is seeing a wide, shallow (5"?) wood ledge for some votive and wine glasses when you're entertaining ... Something like that could help anchor a piece of art above, much like a mantelpiece.

I would suggest contemporary artwork with lots of color-especially some blue to help the color in the chairs pop. Possibly 3 vertical pieces-that you buy as a group so they are all the same size and colors. Be careful of the scale you don't want to over power the table.

I love the triptych idea! I wouldn't worry about matching the chairs so much as finding something you love. ;)

you have lots of possibilities! from the photo there doesn't look like much space between the chairs and the wall, so anything on the wall could potentially be bumped or knocked around..you might want to put something up temporarily so see how it would work with people going through..sorry, i am always the voice of caution :)

Thanks, all! Yes, one of my challenges is that the dining area is a very narrow space leaving little wiggle room for the chairs/wall accessory. Another challenge is the ceiling is relatively low so a hanging light fixture might not work. In addition, I feel it would make the entire open floor plan appear smaller if it was cut in the middle with a light fixture. The space is actually, regularly full of light due to a 2-story wall of western facing windows. I took these pictures on very early, one foggy morning. Thanks again for your help!

I would soften the space with a textile that adds movement and catches the eyes as one comes up the steps. You also mention you had lots of light in this area so something with vibrant color, texture and pattern would be interesting. Another idea is a carving or wall panel with some depth to add dimension.
Jalan-Jalan Antiques