Hello Dash :

You should be a little more specific about the size of the wall and what the overall style or theme you've used in the two areas ; living room and dining room .

Going by what you've told us . I too would only be too happy to create something for you but I really feel that I am just not that crass .

Since it is a small space and you don't want to use a conventional piece of art , then I would suggest thinking in terms of the wall space , itself as a perhaps , a point of interest . You might try doing an interesting surface we all , certainly have access to " how to " books  on several new and old techniques . There is a new line of paint available that actually has various ground in kinds of marble , so you could have a musem quality , marble wall in various shades and finishes from smooth and glossy to dull , etc. I think that , in itself , would make a  certain kind of statement for and entrance . Then there are things as simple as buying a color of latex that you like and feel would be in keeping with either room . Then buy some tubes of tints and a small amount of white latex and a bag of sea sponges . Paint the wall with the color then take a bit of the same paint , add a little white and or play with the tints and do a bit of theatrical , texturing . You cold be as subtle as a flat white with a semi gloss white for sponge painting , on top of the flat white . Dover still makes some interesting books of cut and use stencils , like Deco borders , small Art Nouveau images for small areas , etc. , if you really feel creative . Remember ; if you end up with something you don't like , you can always just repaint it , to it's riginal color and hang a nice , small , silk rug , an interesting fabric or a nice framed and matted black and white photograph .

Whatever you decide ; good luck and look at it as a chance to have some fun and be creative .