Thanks all of you! ...and especially for the picture Marie - I've found it very hard to find pictures of rooms with darker walls & ceilings than floors. I've decided, I think, to go with a blonding / transparent white wash for the walls to let the room ease off a little (it's currently all wood) and will let the ceiling and floor keep their oiled colours (they'll get darker with time I think?). The ceiling is going to be a tone or so darker than the floor but I'll see how it goes.. Our furniture is all ash and elm so it shouldn't float too badly. I appreciate all the comments - and the pictures!!

A cool, modern graphic designed runner, new door knobs and a few updated ceiling lights are a great start and easy fix to brighten and update your hallway. Have fun! {PRODUCT LINKS: http://www.atgstores.com/runners/safavieh-dhu554c-21-dhurries-runner-brown-ivory_g1461183.html http://www.atgstores.com/semi-flush-ceiling-lights/vaxcel-cr-cfu130nb-3-light-carlisle-semi-flush-ceiling-light-noble-bronze_g756367.html http://www.atgstores.com/indoor-door-handles/first-watch-security-1140-indoor-glass-knob-set_g806090.html

The blue is awesome (grey is too trendy)! The reason it stands out to you is perhaps because it's the only real colour there. Bring in the blue in a window treatment, a small appliance that sits on the counter, a pretty tray or area rug. Also, it is more appealing often if there are more than 2 colours - so right now you have a white and blue colour scheme - bring in red or orange or fushia - something from the other side of the spectrum (like you did with the yellow flowers but in a more permanent way)!

My partner and I are designing our new build and we are now up to lighting, in particular kitchen lighting. We are having non-exposed scissor trusses in the living area with a lowered flat ceiling (2.4m stud) over the kitchen. Do we need pendant lighting? I am torn. I feel they are dust and grease gatherers, but also a great visual feature. I have attached a picture of our plan and inspiration for the living area. I am extremely grateful for any advice!