Sounds like I am making a generic answer by saying “black”, but I think the the white wainscoting and taupe walls, it will be stunning.

Posting this photo not just for the black look, but for the large round rug. I find it more complimentary to your set/room than the square one you have now.

In the photo, the chair fabric is a black and white ticking which is lovely; and this Garcia fabric (Crypton) is at Calico Corners, with a 13” repeat, would be lovely as well on the windows.

Does the table have a leaf you can add? It looks like a lot of chairs for the diameter of the table.

I would also change out the flush ceiling light to a chandelier. I like the light, just not for over a dining room table.

hi! yes it does have a leaf which makes it oval. normally I have less chairs around it. I agree with you!

I really like that round rug. the dimensions of the room are just about 11 x 13. what size round rug would you suggest? I can move that flush mount to over my foyer and get a chandelier similar to the one in the pic.
my husband thinks we ought to reupholster first and then see if we like the wood color better. he's suggesting we stain rather than paint. neither of us are an expect by any means.

walls are painted stonington grey cut by 50%.

appreciate everyone's input

thank you blubird. I've decided to reupholster and leave the wood as is. now to pick a chandelier!

My table and chairs are that color also. I thought about painting but am keeping. I think its now all coming back in style