Right. Clutter. Receipts I should probably throw out. Spare mouse. Wallet. Seeds to plant one day. If this is a representation of my mind, it's not looking good.

We did have a front door leading onto a small hallway. It was not used often. During the kitchen reno the wall between was knocked down, giving us extra space in the kitchen, and replacing the door with a window. Now however everyone uses sliding doors off various living areas, but there is no sense of "arrival", and yes nowhere to drop the keys, bags etc. Also, people who are not regulars are a bit bamboozled as to where they should "knock on the door". I am now trying to change an outdoor area off the driveway with pavers and plants to create an obvious and welcoming entrance.

I would recommend a door that goes back into the sides of space. But sorry I can't think what they are called. Maybe retractable? This then allows for space to be completely open without doors or hinges in the way. The only negative is that they do take up extra space when retracted back into sides of cabinet. Having a study desk separate from the bedroom, in my experience is a good idea. The bedroom is for the children to relax and chill, but the study desk is for work and concentration. And when they have finished study for the day, the doors can be closed without having to pack books away.

If study is the primary use, place desk where optimal work arrangement. When I was doing a lot of zoom meetings, I needed to face the door so I could see and communicate with hand signals to the family as they popped by. So for that I would have my back to fireplace. My window faces east so morning sun was a killer with desk under window. What I wouldn’t like is to be tucked into corner, as you currently have, with no view either into house or out window from the desk. But that is me not your husband