Gorgeous home, keep it simple, table with nice art above it.

Yes, beautiful home you have!

I think an antique table or bureau with an unexpected piece of art (pop art, perhaps?) would be an unexpected combination and therefore a fun, whimsical twist to your entry. A rug in happy colors would be nice too.

thank you ! I like the art idea ! I haven't hung anything in the dining room yet because I was trying to decide mirror in entry vs dining wall but hadn't been thinking of art in entrance. That may help give that twist I'm looking for! do you have any thoughts on if I should go with a traditional stained wood antique or a painted refinished piece? That's another option I've been toying with. Thanks again for your help! You all make it seem so easy after my hours and hours of questioning ;-)

If you want to brighten and warm up the space, have you considered a stair runner? It would break up all the brown (and protect your beautiful old stairs). Google Dash & Albert and you'll see some fun, traditional but not stodgy ideas. Also, while I love a dresser in a foyer (a spot for a lamp and some flowers and drawers to stash gloves and all the extras), if you don't need the landing spot there, you might also think about a bench--that really says "welcoming."