Thank you for your help, I had never questioned my taste until a recent visitor commented on my lack of color! I like the look of the mongolian lambs wool cushions-have not seen here in New Zealand, I will have to search. Thanks for the reminder about mirror, it mostly does reflect the dresser but yes the doors are focal too, I hadn't noticed. I used to have more height on the living area coffee table but when I removed the Television and hung the vintage ceiling tiles (photo attached) on the wall the height interrupted them from another angle (not photographed). Our house is located semi rural with bush and water views, with this being quite focal in the lounge (with the wall paper) which is why I have not hung art. With this (as photographed below) would you still hang something? Really appreciate you all taking the time to answer. Thanks.

A quick fix for the dining room would be to center your dining room table in the dining room area. You can define this room a bit more clearly by adding a chandelier centered above the table. For the living room, the loveseat can remain on where it is, but pull it away from the wall. Move the loveseat so it more to the right, it does not need to be centered under the window. Place the larger 3 seater couch along the wall where the coffee table currently stands. It should rest under the window about a foot away from the wall. Place the side table at the corner between the now perpendicular sofas and center the coffee table in the room. This will give you space for a nice entertainment unit where the large sofa previously stood. Alternatively you could place a credenza here to store your dining room dishes or additional storage. Lower the painting on the wall to eye level so the center of the painting is at 54" above the finished floor. Purchasing new window treatments or drapery panels that coordinate with a new throw and cushions for the sofas will tie the elements of the space together and make it more cohesive.

I wish I could post links to pics of others' houses that are already on HOUZZ. Does anyone know how? I've been inspired by a project called "San Francisco Mid-Century Mix" on here.

If you are seeking a truly open feel to the floor plan you have shared, then using one material in the mail living area is the best approach to making this space feel truly open. Using a variety of materials on flooring chops up the space and decreases the visual footprint. I would suggest using wood, tile, or if you are on a tight budget laminated flooring for the living/dining/kitchen. Then use carpet in the more intimate spaces; bedrooms and possibly hallway. Save the tile for the bathrooms.