Artwork on the wall behind the small couch would make a big difference (perhaps have a browse through bluethumb.com.au A small tray on the coffee table for a few small decorative items, potted indoor plant (I use ours for keeping track of the remote controls too). The kitchen island doesn't appear to have much overhang for tucking your legs under - do you think it would be comfortable to eat at? Probably best to live there for a bit first and then decide if you need a separate table - IKEA has a variety of options for compact spaces with very adjustable/extendable tops.

I agree cushions are attractive, also your sofas. I think the area rug is too dark and a light neutral one or light but with bit of blue & green would lighten up the space. Definitely some artwork, but not too high on the walls. The piece next to island seems it's hung too high. Also, I don't think the pink flowers add anything; would prefer potted plant as has been suggested. How many people will need dining seating? If only two, a smallish round glasstop table under stairs might work, as long as no one will hit their head on stairs. Also, to draw your eyes outside and improve your lovely view, maybe a small outdoor set and a potted plant or two. I have to say, your entry door is very cool.

I hope you will update us with a photo as you progress, Rome_agile!

That looks fabulous, rome_agile! The plant needs to be sitting up higher, I think. Maybe on a small stool or plant stand? Can it take full sun in front of your window? IF not, placed either side of the TV entertainment u it is fine, as long as it won't get smacked when the door is opened. You have done a great job! Good luck hunting just the perfect art piece/s!

Love the round coffee table. It softens the hard lines of other furniture and allows the lovely rug to shine.

Did you happen to read today's' feature story about indoor plants? Might give you some ideas.

I agree art work will make a difference as will plants. I wouldn't go for a sofa under the stairs as this could block off the view out to the garden - but perhaps a bean bag would do the trick. I wouldn't go to the expense of getting bar stools unless the actual "bar" is wide enough and it looks quite narrow, maybe a small dining table can be pushed up against the wall there offering seating and allowing you to still have an open feeling and you can pull it out into the room when you have guests. A couple of small knick knacks on the coffee table will also add some colour there.

I like celerygirl's suggestions too. Have a tryat turning your cushions on the square and not diamond angle. It's a bit old fashioned. Also consider adding 3 cushions on 1 side and 2 on the other on a sofa with plumper inserts. 1-3 cushions on the smaller sofa - best to use the rule of odd numbers. Also your cushions do look like they are outdoor cushions and not internal ones but that's just personal opinion.

@wendyzecevic I use Photoshop.

Sometimes it takes a bit of time living in a space to answer some of these questions about flow & layout of furniture, so take your time and have a play!

Your updates look great!! I was going to suggest a sisal rug to lighten the space, plants to soften it - you've done it perfectly! I would actually add a lovely mirror to the wall behind the lounge - it will add depth and reflect light and greenery from the back windows. It could be another way to add interest, even a pattern, something like this could be good instead of a standard rectangle to break up the 'squareness' of the walls. http://www.westelm.com.au/monte-mirrors-w926 - and on sale too! ; )

It is hard to know whether a little cafe table and chairs would fit, but I would do it - it would be a nice little space next to the garden window there. A round, simple shaped table such as a pedestal, even tulip style and some simple chairs.

Invest in some nice potted plants - even a nice sized citrus tree in big pot to add to the green outlook and soften the view.

And final longshot: you could consider painting the stairs balustrade white/the wall colour? I know it's a rental and it would be a tedious job (at least it looks like the steps are carpeted) but that would really open that space up visually.

If you have pets and want to add plants, please take note of the ones that are highly toxic to them! There are quite a list, and I've discovered I have several of them...:(

Find a print fabric you like and hang on the window behind the TV will cut some of the glare and the sheers are not doing anything for the room

rome_agile, have you decided whether to put small round table & chairs under stairs, or bar stools at bench? I'm thinking you might be more comfortable for extended dinners sitting at a table and chairs, plus you can always tuck up an extra stool or two if you are entertaining. There isn't much room at bench and people wouldn't really be facing each other. Stools are fine for quick and casual, if you have space. Maybe backless ones that tuck under the overhang a bit. Have you seen a Tulip table and the clear Louis Ghost Chairs? The Ghost chairs would allow light through so you don't lose the view outdoors and that space wouldnt fee crowded.

Something like this?

Have fun! :)

Looks fabulous, love the comments

You did good job! It still needs some correction. First of all , your wall art is too high. make in lower. The second, your pillows and wall art live separate life. Tie them up with colours. If you go with pillows , pick colour for the wall art from them.

If you go with wall art then get coordinated pillows.