Hello from a newbie. I love this website and am hoping for some serious help with m family room, which is a long narrow room (about 14 x 20) in our ranch-style home. Although it has a 105" picture window (facing north), not much light enters the room after morning hours. There are two ceiling fans with lights, but they cast shadows.

I'm seeking a wall color that will brighten, yet be calm and tranquil. (We are traditionalists, retired, and on a budget.)

The two grayish green reclining love seats will remain (need placement ideas). I found a celery green but it may be too yellowish. Would like to find a complimentary blue that is not too gray and not too light. We have gold, pinch-pleated drapes; however, I was thinking about a white with a silvery sheen in fancy grommet style (if it wouldn't look like a shower curtain).

The east wall is dark with an old brick fireplace and dark paneled bookcase. If we removed the built-in bookcase, the fireplace symnetry would be off. I have looked at Lowe's "Desert Quartz" ledge stone to cover the fireplace, but that project is on hold. We have discussed painting the brick for a temporary "fix" and maybe painting the bookcase background with the wall color to brighten it.

I don't plan on using my area rug because of an indoor cat who tends to throw up on it. My husband and I are both guilty of "junking up" the coffee table and end tables with daily living, so we will probably never have a clean decorative look like cmcole1121.

Bluenan and Kevin, retired decorator, any ideas?

I am attempting to upload the "before" pictures, but not having much luck. Will keep trying. Thanks.