There are a thousand ways to use mirrors beautifully in a living room -- just not any old mirror in any old place, that I would agree with I think you should have art over the fireplace, and I see potential for using a scattering of small mirrors to bring light into the alcove and counterbalance the somewhat awkward angle of the TV. I'm assuming there's nowhere else to put the TV? I agree that the furniture in that corner is rather too flimsy to handle either the size of the TV or the bold black boxes of the fireplace and hearth. How about a striking floor vase? (Just resist the temptation to stick stuff in it.) https://www.etsy.com/listing/158899961/poster-geometric-print-a3-abstract-wall http://www.amazon.com/Classic-Natural-Bamboo-Floral-included/dp/B006O127GY

I think the only place you could put a tv is probably the corner by the window...over the fireplace is probably too high. a walnut floor and new fresher paint colour would be lovely, would you consider painting the skirting boards and fireplace white or off white to modernise them a bit? we've painted the skirting in our living room (also a walnut floor) and it looks so much better than before. (Have yet to get around to the rest of the house!!)

It feels bland because floors and walls are beige. (ish). If you want to make a statement about a room. contrasting shades work really well. You have spotlights so the south aspect is irrelevant. Put a dimmer on spots if not already there so you control the light and feel of a room. I presume the fire is staying there so that back wall would be perfect for TV to be put on/entertainment system. Corner couch facing tv wall with chaise lounge on fire side. Behind the corner or L shaped couch, table and chairs so the room is functional for entertaining also and the layout is proportional. The room also has a focal point (TV)

We will have oak trusses also. I want to have a lot of natural materials inside.