Change the flooring. It's hard to tell what to suggest since we can't see what the entry opens up to. With that gorgeousness staircase, you might have something great hiding under the carpet. Take down the curtains -- those windows don't need any kind of treatment. Last, cover your radiator with a console table. I think you should do something really modern or sleek or get something built that ties into the wood of your staircase. Here are some examples for rad covers. Options are endless. The first is just a console table. The second has a good shape. I like the brass in the third and the dark wood in the last. Then make certain you have good lighting and a statement piece of art or a huge mirror over the console.

Thanks both. At the moment I only have one couch which is the same colour as what is there currently, and a few different rugs in grey and beige colours. I might copy the mirror that is currently there and a similar lamp as I think they look well. Was thinking maybe a clear glass coffee table in the middle over a beige rug? I guess modern would be my preffered style but Im pretty open!

Agree with Judith too, paint all one colour as back wall. I like the fireplae and wouldn't replace it. That mirror it too big and not very interesting, doesn't do anything for the wall or the fireplace. The gold I suspect clashes with the metal on the surround, bit too new and shiny. I think a great piece of artwork would really set off the fireplace and make it a gorgeous focal point. As the fireplace is very angular I suggest a more organic colourful piece to soften it up a bit. A real painting rather than a print if you can. Keep an eye out at markets, second hand stores ... or even eBay!

If you are worried about the hallway being dark why not have a fully glazed door into the open plan area at this bottom of the stairs. This would allow you to see straight through the house when you walk in the front door and make the hallway feel much brighter and less closed in?