Family Room Pre-Planning

So, since we moved into our house over the summer, we haven't done much to personalize it. Trust me, I have grand ideas, my friends! It's just the whole TIME thing that I can't seem to get enough of. The only thing I've really done to make it ours (besides a little decorating here and there) is paint the kitchen/dining room walls. The previous color was close to burning my retinas so it was considered an emergency. I've purposely not showed you much of the new digs because I'm waiting for the whole before-after shtick... as I'm sure you are, too.  BUT, Black Friday is just two weeks away. Black Friday for most means a day of shopping. For me, it means major home overhaul. This year: THE FAMILY ROOM.

You can kind of see the family room behind my loves in this picture (also the previous dining room color)


Here is another one:


Basically, it is a light green color... kind of similar to a cucumber-lime lotion color. There is wood paneling half-way up the wall. The built-in bookcases are super dark. There are exposed beams on the ceiling and hideous posts that separate the family and dining rooms. On the positive side, the carpet is fairly new and awesome! The furniture (that came with the house), not so awesome.

My plan is to lighten it up significantly! I'm also going to get new furniture and create an awesome (hopefully) DIY piece.  Here are some inspiration pics... In the first picture, I like the neutral tones and different fabrics. I like layering curtains with blinds on the windows. I LOVE the chair!

Traditional Living Room design by Charleston Interior Designer LORRAINE G VALE, Allied ASID

This one is very neutral and cozy!

Contemporary Living Room design by San Francisco Photographer Alex Amend Photography

The lighter built-ins really make this fireplace stand out! I also like the sofa table and the curtains over the doors.

Traditional Family Room design by Portland Interior Designer Jenny Baines, Jennifer Baines Interiors

This one may be my favorite! LOVE the organic feel!

Contemporary Family Room design by San Francisco Interior Designer Amoroso Design

This picture is all about that ottoman! Love it!

Modern Living Room design by New York Interior Designer Tara Seawright

Check out these exposed beams... Love it or hate it?

Contemporary Family Room design by Dallas Design-build Ellen Grasso & Sons, LLC

Great furniture choices in this photo.

Contemporary Living Room design by Raleigh Photographer Tad Davis Photography

So, those are my inspiration pictures.  Now, I need a little assistance with my fabric! I am completely torn on which way I want to go!
    

My paint color will be one of these (or similar):

Paints Stains And Glazes design by Benjamin Moore

Paints Stains And Glazes design by Benjamin Moore

One more question:
Does anyone actually have IKEA's Ektorp Sofa? I've read mixed reviews on it. Mike is 6'3" and people have said it is dwarfy... Also that it is not as comfortable as it looks. Anyone have personal, real-life experience?

Also, anyone want to come over on Black Friday and help me ;o)