I have faux hardwood flooring that is really ceramic tile.. it is dark brown and so durable and easy to clean! I wish I had done the lighter version so the dust wouldn't show as much - then I wouldn't have to clean it as often. The photo you posted would be awesome. My need was to have something a wheelchair could go over after coming in from the outside. It works beautifully.

I like the blue touches already in the room, which reflect the brickwork. Agree with lots of creams/ neutrals, just adding some blue in cushions, artwork. Maybe a bluish/cream rug, with a subtle pattern, not a solid color. Also I think the lights are a little lost. The high ceilings could take some quite large shades, maybe drums. And I agree that the central column could be painted to become the focal point as stated. Either white or quite a dark grey/ blue, ( it might darken up things too much, but it's only paint, can be changed). It might be sinful but I think I would replace it with plaster, then paint it. Finally maybe a dash of 60s burnt orange or mustard if you want to want to keep the retro theme.

Just to confirm, by combination washer/dryer, you mean one machine performs both functions, correct? Some years ago, we bought one for our apartment. It was a good brand. It did not dry clothes properly, took forever, many drying cycles, and never dried clothes completely, so I cannot recommend.

I do like the design but wonder how easy or difficult the postie would find accessing it, but that is not a design issue. Agree with bigreader' observations. It goes well with the house.