I have some more tips:
Enlarge a fireplace. It takes up 3 tiles when enlarged. It can make a huge difference in the lot style! -Also, I used a tip from here about adding spice to the ceiling.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jC5Wbd6caMo/VDRKdE-Ga0I/AAAAAAAAMHg/_sWVlNq1Y90/w1536-h864-no/10-07-14_3-12%C2%A0PM-2.png
Use island counters instead of a dining room table. More seating in just the way you want it:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5kGpNLOviuA/VDRKeLXiqTI/AAAAAAAAMHk/4aT5xrS3TZw/w1536-h864-no/10-07-14_3-13%C2%A0PM-3.png
If you don't have the space for a bar, turn it around and face it towards the wall. Sims can still grab drinks:
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-w6W5pFANbaY/VDRKeru_xtI/AAAAAAAAMHk/ZBlE15NInRc/w1536-h864-no/10-07-14_3-13%C2%A0PM.png