Décor dilemma

THE PROBLEM

Lynne Prendergast of Johannesburg writes This room has me stumped! My lounge is long and narrow, and the layout is further complicated by stairs and doorways. I’m keen to update the look and create a sociable space. Although the curtains are a bit dated, I don’t want to replace them, and I’d like to include a TV. Any suggestions?

THE SOLUTION

Wouter le Roux, interior architect at Hello Charlie, replies Long and