I think that lighter rug would be better.

Cosmopolitan Nolita Desert - NW Rugs & Furniture · More Info

I totally agree. Should I bring in some of the purplish rust from the checked loveseat, or some of pale gold from the sofa though?

Celerygirl, I enlarged the first suggested rug, and wow! It is so pretty. Are you familiar with this brand ?

It does, and I'm not happy about it! I'm doing what i want with the rest of the room though. 42 years of win some, lose some.

Maybe a lighter fireplace screen in the meantime?

I like something in navy, burnt orange or blue green undertones.

Jaddie! I am not familiar with any rugs I posted. I just try to find better solution and give you an idea. I put all info for rugs and sites where you can see what you like best.

I think gray is definitely better. I will try darker one.

Rugs USA - Area Rugs in many styles including Contemporary, Braided, Outdoor and · More Info

Yall, keep it coming. This is true and so helpful. Celerygirl, my favorite rug yet is the very first one. So soft. Thank you for the help! Would a narrow console under the small pictures help? Should I put bookcases or something on both sides of fireplace? Has anyone seen a lighter fireplace screen? My husband loves the tv there. It does retrack up. I had it in the armoire when we set up the room, but it was hard to see. The room is not too condusive to placing it elsewhere. Would you rearrange it all? Would more pictures help?

I'd pick a coral-coloured rug for your living room. It would pick up on the warm wood tones of your kitchen cabinetry and add a bit of energy to an otherwise fairly monochrome space. Perhaps something like one of these?

Classic Oriental Pattern Wool Poeme Area Rug, Auburn, 9'x12' · More Info

Jaipur Living Corsica Handmade Damask Orange/Multicolor Area Rug, 9'x12' · More Info

Regarding the television, I'd get a medium height bookcase (~48" tall) and put it where you currently have your small table and large picture. Place the tv on top of the bookcase or mount it on an arm over the bookcase. In both cases the tv is much more adjustable than it was inside the armoire and much less obtrusive than it is over the fireplace. We have a similar set up. That's how I know it works.

Rugusa...

I have brought home 5 small sample rugs, i will attach and I like 3 of them. I also like the classic oriental pome in nugget alot! Thanks to all who replied! The tv does move up, so it sits on the mantel. What if I rub n buff the firescreen a light color? Does anyone know of matching shelves or bookcases that would look right on either side of the fireplace, or should I get chests with mirrors above or such?

Poeme area rug here

I like this rug

Safavieh Heritage Collection HG734 Rug, Light Grey/Grey, 9'6"x13'6" · More Info

This is my favorite! Thank you.