Random and off topic, but I love your dog!!!! As far as lamp shades I'd go with trying to match a darker color in your area rug.

At the risk of stating the obvious - take a lap to the shade shop with you. & remember you can change harps so you are not stuck w/ height of current shades.

Thanks. He is a handful. This was an unusually quiet moment! I like your suggestion. I never thought of a darker color for the shade. The area looks a little bare to me. I have a collection of plates that I need a spot for. How about over the mirror?

I agree- go dark and dramatic with your wall color.

Nice lamp bases.. Try drum shades in dark shades.. As for plates, if the mirror was smaller, would've said all around it on the wall.. But for now, if you have plate props and also have differently sized plates, why not place and display em upright on the table, using stands.. Larger at back. Smaller in front but to the side.. And move your current pieces to their front..

Over the mirror is nice too if it doesn't give it the look of a hall way.. And if you are ok with a bit of a country, cottagey touch.. Depends what else is in this room too.. If it's dining too -ok.

http://houzz.com/photos/460657