How about a horizontal weave-style fence for privacy, plenty of seating for dining and relaxing, with separate sections for each function. Moving the trees is a good idea, to open up the entire space.

It sounds lovely. The ceiling will be more than suitable for a transitional style. I think the wainscoting would also be fine but as I'm cautious I'd be adding after I'd lived there for a while. It does seem more traditional than transitional. On the other side I'd love the bead boarding in the hall.

Help! we are redecorating our 1980’s architecturally designed home. A new kitchen is going in - modern - white with a black stone top. The dining and living rooms have been opened up with a wall removal. some of the walls will be painted but the stairway and wall leading into the dining room will be difficult to achieve a paint finish. How can we achieve a modern look with some white painted walls and one very long wall will need wallpaper? Any ideas? Anaglypta? thankyou!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czSkuEgAPzg