artwork, maybe a rug under the table. the room needs some color.

I would replace both sconces with matching ones and lower them. If that's a fan over the dining table, replace it with a chandelier. Rug under the table would add some color. Large art over the sideboard.

Those are great suggestions. I don't think she's considered adding another rug, but that one looks great and brightens the space up. The new area rug in the living area is grey tones so she'll have to work hard to find another rug with color that works. I think the large artwork is really the key.

The table and sideboard had a rustic Mexican vibe, so that's how I styled it.

I was going to say that to lower/match & agree. Post when done.

I would remove the electrical outlets and use table lamps on a furniture piece. It's more versatile. The sconces are too high and will limit that wall for future changes.

Maybe spray paint the dining table white. Spray paint the chairs in a color she loves. Adding the chair color in different tones sprinkled in the rooms while adding a 3rd color for accents or accessories for more interest and personality.

I know.. probably green marble on top, but would a nice chalk paint be nice, or just not? :) If there's some color she likes, maybe a similar to the nearby rug? Nourison poly in Ash with good reviews:

https://www.houzz.com/products/nourison-karma-rug-ash-710x106-prvw-vr~33067494

Not red, not orange -- called rust/ gray and only 6'

https://www.houzz.com/products/dazzle-gray-rust-indoor-round-rug-6-prvw-vr~85636981

Could be nice and blend with round table, and have the softer color on it for centerpiece, etc....

https://www.houzz.com/products/nourison-vivid-ivory-area-rug-8-round-prvw-vr~116755152

Several on houzz:

https://www.houzz.com/products/flores-frescas-ii-by-lola-abellan-giclee-print-on-gallery-wrap-canvas-prvw-vr~68022526

Broad swaths of color and seems might complement chairs / has greyish of nearby rug / if chest were polished, but idk if that's the "thing to do"...

https://www.houzz.com/products/fidelity-by-preethi-original-large-modern-painting-prvw-vr~100620792

She might want to relax in the chair.

https://www.houzz.com/products/hommage-a-renoir-xvi-3925x4725-framed-limited-fine-art-paper-print-prvw-vr~121794923

https://www.houzz.com/products/persuade-by-tracy-williams-24x32-fine-art-paper-print-limited-edition-of-50-prvw-vr~121823850

The living room and bedroom inspire a feeling of calmness and tranquility over bright colors. Vintage mandala lotus carved credenza and chakra carved buffets, subtle patinas and lustrous sheer soft curtains create an ambiance of relaxed tranquility.Cozy bedrooms with arched doorways, living rooms decorated with carved panels, your home is a reservoir of energy. Beautiful aged wood and washed textures enhance each space going to the source and connecting with old world traditions. Your home is beautiful and the source of all joy. Guided with energy balance techniques and antique carvings your home attracts love, luck and prosperity in abundance.
https://www.houzz.com/products/query/Mogul-Interior/p/324

Replace the scones ..and put a large painting or a grouping of photos ...put a chandelier over the dining table ...replacing the scones with table lights would be a better go. If you do not have a painting or have a hard time finding something suitable there is always the big mirror idea !!!! Plus the mirror would reflect light and give the space what you need . She has to go slow ...and enjoy the process of making a new place a home ! Flowers ..mirrors chandeliers ..color here and there ..

Wow, such an awesome response! I like the orange in the rugs and I think they would go with the terra cotta but I'm not sure how she will feel about it. The round shape of the rugs is definitely on the right track though and won't fight with her existing rectangular rug. I love the painting above by Tracy Williams but I'm not sure my sister is into florals like I am, even though it has a very contemporary feel. She really likes bison so I might suggest she look for some large art with a bison theme. That would also work with the rustic vibe that Groveraxle picked up on.

You know, Ann, it probably would be more useful if your sister actually joined this thread.

Always love to see what Grover adds. Groveraxle - wish I had a box of Grover wonderfulness to pop open every time I have a color issue.

The paint is kind of dreary, like a Seattle winter day. I guess there is no hope of a very pale yellow or ivory on those walls?

Seeing there are 3 floor tiles with more color -- if floor is professionally cleaned, current paint and more might work. Any windows around?