Hi Lesley, Balsa wood - that is a great idea, we use stuff that is much more environmentally friendly though, and reusable! You'd be surprised by the pricing too, it's not as much as you might think, and when you compare it to the cost of making changes once construction has already begun, it is much much lower.

Here's a story about the international results: https://www.houzz.com.au/magazine/relationships-and-renovating-do-they-mix-stsetivw-vs~61562536

Lose the mirror ball. I think the hanging chairs are even a bit too much... perhaps two would be enough. It would be lovely to get out of the pool and lounge around in one of those to dry off.

Hi Lindsey, I also agree with the comments regarding adding indoor plants to fill the gaps on either side of the TV. Some great, low-maintenance indoor plants are the Fiddle Leaf Fig, Monstera (also known as Swiss Cheese Plant) and Snake Plant (Mother-In-Law's Tongue). They're all beautiful plants and very ease to take care of. Another option would be to have some open shelving on either side, similar to the one we have used in this Living Room styling below. This could work really well, especially if you have limited storage for some bits and pieces you would like on display. A bonus is that including taller items like this will create a sense of balance in the room, and accentuate the height of your wall which will create an illusion of taller ceilings. Hope this helps! - Elena