Wow 1970's architecture! I'd start by painting the brick a gray color. Adding a lighter area rug over the existing carpet. Add light throw pillows and a shiney metal coffee table. Install a large diameter hanging fixture to replace the existing one. Add plants to the planters.

Wow! Thank you! That's exactly what i was visioning but just didn't know how to put it out there! Thanks so much!

I will save my money, destroy everything and rebuild.

I would think you could take out brick "built in" and just add steps to the living area