You've done a good job! Too bad you have that monster sofa and chair to deal with. You could gain some floor space by hanging the TV on the wall without the white credenza.

I love it! I agree with paint color. Too much purple in there. How about something that will complement the warm brown of the leather furniture? I think the paint you have right now would look good with a more modern design scheme with light furniture which probably isn't in your budget. Paint is cheap to buy. Get some paint swatches and hold them next to the floor and leather sofa. It will help you see what looks good. Pottery Barn colors from Benjamin Moore paints are pretty fool proof.

It sounds like importing it is the only way to go. Hopefully you no longer suffer from kitchen envy.

I would consider something light with some other colors to mix in like this. http://t.homedepot.com/p/Silestone-2-in-Quartz-Countertop-Sample-in-Mont-Blanc-SS-Q0220/203674451/ I like the wood paneling and would paint it a white with a warm feel to it. A white will reflect a lot of light from your large window. I wouldn't paint the window casing as it might tie in better with the rest of the house. Good luck!!