I would fully decorate the living spaces and not worry about the walls - you want to draw the attention to the space you use, not the space above you. Right now, everything looks sterile. I agree with JudyG re: larger rug, also include lots of texture, larger and more colorful decor on the tabletops (including something large and fabulous on the island), artwork, etc.

Once you are finished with the decor, the walls will not seem like such a strong element of the design.

Nice space, and I love your dining set! I agree that the rug under the dining table should ideally be larger. Are you planning to add more furniture to the space? I would also leave the wall above the patio door blank, at least for now.

As the saying goes, I love what you've done to the place!

In addition to what's already been suggested, I would bring in a couple of tall plants to bring some of the outdoors in. I think you need some more textures.

I too wouldn't focus on the high walls. I'm also a less is more kind of person though. You don't need to decorate every open space.

Thanks!
I'm not sure what happened to the other photos, I thought I had uploaded these as well.

try again

.

Ok, I give up! Not sure why my photos won't upload

one last attempt?

Comment and add them using the Photo button under the comment box. Decorate below window and door frames, where the people live. If you feel it is still sterile, you may want to paint those walls a warm greige or a color from the new rug, which should be 36-42" larger than the table top all the way around so there is room for chair scoot/sit.

Thanks! that's what I've been trying to do, and been able to do in another thread but it just doesn't seem to want to work for me here.
I'm relieved to hear I don't need to concern myself with the high walls. my instinct was to leave them alone but I've had a few people walk in and ask what I plan to do with them.