Thanks for the great thoughts asquithoatley and Damien. I especially like the suggestions that I add a bit of colour and texture with cushions and lamps. I really favour a natural and organic palette, but having largely achieved that, the room just didn't seem to 'pop' in quite the way I'd hoped. Asquithoatley - are you able to give me a source for the red lamp? I really like it. It is funny you mention knitted pillows, as I just took up knitting for the first time in years and I did some for upstairs. They look really good. Maybe I'll get the knitting needles out again! And I'll start looking around at coffee tables. I think you are right. Thanks again to both of you. Isn't this site fantastic?

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I'd suggest firstly block out blinds for the windows and then installing no- glare light sources. Such as step lights 30-40cm from floor height, or concealed wall washers. The seating can then be arranged and size to suit orientation to the screen.

I did a quick search on Houzz Products for 'Outdoor dining furniture' and got over 10k+ results! Take a look: http://www.houzz.com.au/photos/products/query/outdoor-dining-furniture/nqrwns