First of all I would take out the candles and move them to the right end of the console table. I would take the books off the console table unless they really mean something to you and see if you can make an attractive arrangement out the remaining things + the lanterns. They I would think about whether the lanterns would be more interesting filled with other things -- organic or highly metallic or unexpected (lace? hot wheels? something that relates to the family history?) or find out if they can be used as terrariums if you are up for that. It's possible they are not well sealed enough.

You didn't ask but I think in the living room your dark upholstered chair and reading lamp would look better pulled out of the corner and to the left of the sofa by the window and the 2 wood chairs flanking the TV, angled loosely.

Can anyone actually sit against the wall at your dining room table? Have you tried turning the rug and table the other way?

Graat tips! Thanks so much! When we have guests, we pull the table ”out and down” so guests can seat comfortable around the table. There isn’t space to turn the rug and table the other way.

I see nothing MCM in the space and IMO MCM is about simplicity . I think stressing over 3 candle holders is wasted energy . Go find something you like better use those outside or on entry table not in these 2 spaces .

I was just thinking that if you are clever and patient you could possibly also use them as photo frames. Get large family photos or travel photos where you can slice out a nice part of them image that will fit the slanted windows of the lanterns. You'll have to figure out how to hold the photos in place, maybe by using a piece of cardboard backing and some glue or tape. But if it goes right, you would be adding to the photo display over the console table in interesting way.

Regarding your dining table you might think of putting the chairs you don't use every day away from the table -- perhaps on each side of the console?

(orange and blue candles/)

Your space is beautiful and I adore the side table with the fern set up.

The candle holders, nor the white cloth, do much for your space. Get a round mat of some sort for the center of your table and put a circular bowl on it. It will take the emphasis off of the squeezed in rectangle of your table and coordinate better with the mirror and chandelier shape. Donate the candle holders to a good charity thrift shop.

I 100% get small space living and the need to pull out furniture for a different arrangement when guests come. (I live in a NYC apartment.) Still, could you pull your table and chairs maybe 5" from the wall so they are more centered on the chandelier, mirror, and rug? You still won't be able to sit at the chairs unless you move the table more, but just looking at it everyday, your chairs seem like they have been taken hostage and that 5" space away from the wall will give just the smallest amount of breathing space.

I like @acm‘s idea of using your colors, blue and orange, for the candles. But I also realize that you may just prefer white candles. And if this is the case, I understand as i basically never use any other color candle but white, myself.

The candle holders are nice - but maybe it’s just time to get something else, since you’re not so wild about them at this point.

You have a nice place.

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