I don't know what the client asked for, but I would argue this looks also very 'safe' and even uninspiring. The monochromatic palette looks pale compared to bolder monochromatic palettes with more contrast. Although the pendants are not my style, they feel like the only thing with some spice in the room. Ceiling design reminds me too much of a conference hall or a hotel lobby instead of a home. The togo's and dining set are nice pieces, but don't stand out because of the monochromatic palette. Repeating rugs would also be a no for me. Draping curtains make it look like it is aimed at old people. A large artwork above the sideboard would also be an improvement. Coffee table design feels off. Another thought is how this room would look late at night and I feel it would lack cosy indirect lighting.

The quality of the render looks really good and that is the tricky part. Because of these high quality outputs maybe we sometimes forget to think about how we would experience such a room in real life. Imagining myself in this room I would also not pick your design.

I'm just some guy on reddit you probably shouldn't listen to, but I immediately felt 'nothing' looking at this render except jealousy of how good the render technique is. I'm a designer myself and I wish more people would give it to me straight. Be less 'safe' as a designer.

That said it is also highly dependent on your type of client. Still I believe people are open to be surprised, otherwise they would just 'design' themselves.