Hi Bubbaloo,
first of all I have to say that`s really great stuff,
- I have never rendered such complex interiors myself.
However seeing both versions I would consider some things:
-the first render looks like a daylight shot; much colder color temperature,
which IMO it makes the room appear larger; I think that is better in the first image.
Also I prefer the shadows under the table and the sun reflections on the floor (front right) in the first one. They could actually be more present,
like extending further into the middle of the room.
I see a bit of a problem using daylight and artificial light at the same time
(it`s also the problem of the phtotgrapher when choosing the type of film)
If you can Multilight it give it a try, and choose later!
(guess you have to give in a single image in the end though)
-reflections on the inside of the glass were visible in the first render (looking very real!), but hardly in the second.
-lighting the fireplace would be great for a dawn setting!
-I think you have a render intensive material on the wall, it`s a bit strange that in clears up last.
-this one is a bit pedantic, but the two red pillows look a bit unnaturally deformed
everything else has improved for me in the second image, too!
I see you resized the "giant ivy"
And those trees looked great in the first;
Waiting to see those again!
good luck,
daniel
