The area looks as though it will be a real hot-box. And the dull, dark colour will absorb the heat. I would suggest that you consider a much lighter and glossy paint for the surrounding walls and then the large pot in the centre. Many succulents burn as badly as any other plant when exposed to high heat, especially when in a pot. Also for consideration after changing the wall colour is a small tree like one of the smaller crepe myrtles. Once you have a canopy you can then underplant with small ground covering succulents or liriopes. I would steer clear of the white stones - they are a fad and will die out. EVERYone is using them and they are really boring. We need more trees in our gardens and there is definitely a place for a small tree in every garden. Trees provide depth. Unfortunately most people can't realise this.

Mobile islands are readily available, as are folding models. For dining, try adding a larger top over the prep board, and counter height chairs.

Wow, thank you so much everyone for all your brilliant suggestions. We own the place and found a way to remove the bars. Knocking down the wall between kitchen and dining is unfortunately not an option. Combining all your suggestions, will: 1. Go for white walls 2. Look into the built-in bench 3. Have a white or glass oval table with less chairs (no arm ones) 3. Change the wall lighting (and a pendant light?) 4. Mirror across dining area 5. Large artwork on the wall above the bench Will post the finished look here after

First thing -- colour ! Literally , the only colour is quite an ( IMO ) insipid faded-mustard throw ! Change the rug to red , or orange . The chairs around the existing table -- the same ( red or orange ) . Cushions -- ditto . A big ( 1.2 x 1.5 metre ) abstract picture with 10 colours , with red , orange , yellow , apricot , mustard , pink , light blue , spearmint green , etc -- predominantly a red / orange spectrum though . A mid one two , and a couple maybe 30 x 40 ( one vertical , one horizontal ? ) . I'd even get rid of one couch , and add a classy modern red ( or orange ) square chair . Or sell them as a pair , and get a red leather couch and single ( or two , as that is generally how they are sold as part of a suite ) chair .