Oh I am so glad you didn't take offense to my comment. - i generally try to stick to being helpful in the direction posters request and i strayed! I know it can be really fun to diy new things. Maybe there is a different room for you to direct your efforts - and I totally understand that any gift that feels like there are strings attached is tough to love. I think Darzy's simple red leather parsons could help you feel more warm and fuzzy - especially when paired with a fun red print on the seats - confide to your mil that now that you've put your own stamp on it you are loving her gift. That will stop her fishing for compliments.

You can do the upper wall dark and keep your lower area with trim in the white that is used for all your trim throughout your home. This deep tone will look beautiful with dark wood floors..I would keep your lighting and accessories light or metallic to reflect light around the room..mirror for sure.

Here is the whole room. It is pretty much a bare canvas at the moment. I am talking with the same builders to make a TV console which will be stained a similar, but not same colour. Or should I go with something else for the TV? We have 4 young kids, so I need durable, but warm and lovely and welcoming :) Curtains, pillows and throws will be purchased soon and our canvas collection is coming along for the bare wall.

The house is going to be down in the beach area and i really want to create a very relaxed, coastal feel for the house. Will most likely go with some form of reclaimed wood for the coffee tables in the living room. My style tends to be more transitional – even a little traditional. Just really struggling with trying to visualize what color would would look best.