This is the living room that is diagonally across from the dining room

For me there is too much if the dark color. I would paint below the chair rail a soft white.

The drapes are too low. A rod hung above the arch with two panes on either side would be better.
Then I would add an area carpet

Your light fixture appears to be the right size for the room and table.

Oops typing on phone too may typo's
Panes should be panels.

I like it! Can you take another photo in different light?

I would like this arrangement but in lighter colors for my personal preference. For those that enjoy darker rooms this is gorgeous.

Maybe that is what I don't like: the darkness. Below the chair rail is a sea grass wall paper that I am not keen about changing.

I couldn't tell in the first photo that below the chair rail was wallpaper. I would have a hard time living with this dark of a room, but in the evening when dining, a dark room can be very inviting.

If you love the wall color then I think add a rug to brighten the room up.

I would recommend an area rug (light in color) to warm the room up. I would invest in custom window treatments to highlight that gorgeous window. Raise them up high to make the walls appear larger. It is hard to tell what the chairs are covered with but perhaps that is one of the issues? I hope this helps.

That white chair rail really stands out. Maybe too much?

Love the wall color! The room has TOO MANY RECTANGLES... especially when looking at living rm. Break it up with a large round statement mirror, instead of that wall hanging. Definitely raise the curtain rod to just below the

okay I'm continuing my last comment...curtain rod just.below crown molding w/custom panels. And definitely recover the vinyl looking dining chairs...or find a great slipcover in a light damask? or matellase (sp?) type fabric. Think a minimal amount of large accessories that again will break up all the hard edges, curvy vases, candle holders, etc... Finally - a rug under the table in a light background w/pops of color & your wall color. Not modern or geometric. I think your room could transform into gorgeous and dramatic!

I think you've done a fabulous job! I just looked up at elizabeth hayden's suggestion and that's what I was going to suggest...move the wine rack and get a picture or even a mirror (which I don't usually recommend). Are you tired of the red? It looks dramatic to me but I don't see it everyday. I love the way you placed your pictures. Possibly a more interesting centerpiece for the table. It's really hard to find much to change! One thing that struck me was the curtains in the dining area. I say if you can do without the privacy then remove them. Maybe a runner for the dining table?

Jane, a piece of art you like would bring interest and character to your room, it will be a feast for the eye when you, your family and friebds are dining there :). You can check out our Houzz page for art ideas. Enjoy and best of luck updating your dining room!... Raisa

Maybe paint the upper half of the wall 3-4 shades lighter than the current color, or some lighter tone found in the wall covering. Add a light background carpet with color of existing paint choice. One large mirror (will brighten the space) the lamps can overlap it. Bright accessories on top of buffet and taller accessories on dining table top.