Please, please, please, don't paint any of the wood. You have a beautiful setting for mid century modern décor. I can agree with removing the carpet from the stairs, however I would just want to add a jute floor covering for the stairs after. The light fixtures should probably both be changed. You even have a lovely roomy space in your foyer. I always recommend starting with the foundation of the room, which is the floor covering. Kilim, ikat, Persian or Oriental would be my choice. I would think minimalist would be very fitting in this space.

Wow, I didn't expect so many responses, thank you so much for your time and ideas. I do know that the art is wrong but had to put something up from our last house while we settle in. I do find the fireplace a bit un-friendly and so I would consider changing the colour of it even just the border of it like one of the photos shows. I'm not keen on the small computer cabinet or the ladder shelving I have to admit. I was thinking more of putting 3 full width cherry wood shelves, bottom one being wider and desk height, changing the light fittings to down lights and maybe having a wallpaper or painted backdrop behind the shelves?? I realise I would have to get rid of or change the wallpaper on the other wall and change the curtains too. I take your point, many of you said it, about the curtains needing to fall straight, but I will need a wider pole to do that. Again many thanks, AnnaMarie ps we are in Ireland now but lived in australia for many years and that picture over the mantle is of an old aussie shed with moon light on it.

Any of these wood work, you can also pick your color and have them mix the percentage of tint lighter if you find one you like

I agree - paint or paper the chimney breast in that burgundy/red shade of the fire surround tiling. Your curtains are lovely - methinks I'd be choosing a throw to match for the sofa + chairs, and I see you already have red cushions to accessorise.