In terms of the pony wall at the front door. People do take them out a lot, but it defines the entry and creates a place to put a piece of furniture much closer to the door than you would if the wall was not there. This definition of boundaries can be important, especially in a small house. I would select a rug first because that will give you some color direction. You may find only a handful of rugs you both like and can afford, and paint colors number in the thousands.

You know when your dog gets a little "ripe"? When ours does and we are headed out for a while, I'll put a bowl of plain white vinegar in the mudroom where she likes to hang out while we're away. Somehow that vinegar neutralizes ripe dog smell. I bet if you placed this piece next to a bowl of vinegar while you're researching other ways of cleaning it, it might get the process started.

DD & SIL have just bought a home and the living room is the first room on her long list of updates. It’s basically a blank slate and she’s so overwhelmed, any help you can offer will be appreciated!. A living room that’s crying for help!!!

I prefer nothing on my front door and think the looks above are cluttery. I also like the taste of fried Spam, but it kinda makes me gag in electronic form.