I used an old kitchen counter unit as my potting "table." I repainted it, retained the butcher block counter and added attractive new hardware. I removed the fawcett and taps, took the door under the sink off and we built a sliding bin to store ProMix in. Now I can pot in the sink and push any remaining soil down the drain hole into the bin. There's lots of work space and lots of storage behind doors for fertilizers, pesticides and pots plus 2 drawers for gloves, seeds, tools etc. The counter was on the smallish size compared to new ones, having come out of a cottage, so it was perfect for my 10x16 GH. Here's a link to a thread with my GH and shed Photos... Here is a link that might be useful: Greenhouse and Garden Shed Photos

My thoughts: - I don't think the light fixture is the problem in this room --I wouldn't bother to change it. - I think the problem is that you have a bunch of neutrals, and they're fighting with one another. The staircase is lovely, and the brick wall is lovely. The floor is ... eh. But the big issue is that these three items don't match one another. - Of the above mentioned items, I'd most like to change the floor -- but I realize that this is expensive and may not fall under the venue of "facelift". As such, I suggest a rug. I personally would go with a red rug, but your taste in color may differ -- it just needs not to be a neutral. It'd hide the floor and bring in a much-needed pop of color. - The table seems to be too large for its location. I'd look for a smaller table -- or simply a built-in shelf in that spot. The trunk seems to be too large to fit under the table. - I like the pot belly stove -- it's unexpected and interesting. - I don't particularly like the cabinet -- though I would like it in a different location -- it's somewhat underwhelming as a focal point dead-ahead of the door. Any chance the table (which I like -- I just don't think it fits in that spot) could go in its place?

Love your bookends.... Going to suggest you lower your TV...looks so uncomfortably high but maybe it works for you. As for what to put on your table....how about the bookends with two or three colorful books between them. Put them on one side and a low green plant on the other side.

For the $2k budget - I would definitely keep a close eye on FB Marketplace, people don't seem to eat at tables anymore and Marketplace is FULL of dining tables and chairs - same with hutches if you would want something larger in the spot where the winter cab is currently. If you're handy at all you can refinish or paint the furniture you find on FB and make it match your style - you've got a light bright comfortable room, what a lovely spot to hang out! (If you strike out on Marketplace, there are lots of custom table sellers on Etsy so you might find something there you like better)