Hi all Just thought I'd give an update. Even though hubby and I discussed with each other that we will wait til we move in to get a dining table. Hubby went back to the store where we bought the sofa set to buy something, then he went ahead and bought the matching dining set because he got a good deal for it. Oh well. Thanks again to all those who helped me with this :)

Congratulations on your new home. I think you have been very sensible to live in it for a year before starting your decorating, it has given you time to consider the lighting and aspect of each room in all seasons as well as time to evaluate how you want to live in your home and exactly what you need. The lounge does look very big and bulky and will definitely dominate the room, so I would keep to the lighter colour. Don't worry about the kids and dirt - as Kookykaren said, leather cleans easily - sharp objects and textas are your bigger worry regardless of what colour you choose. Laying newspaper on the floor to the size of the lounge is another way of checking how it will look as it gives you a better indication of bulk than tape. I would keep your ottoman simple (one with storage is an excellent idea with the children), just a tone on tone fabric or a pattern using the colours in the rug on the floor of the photo of the lounge. I don't think you have room for too large an ottoman but I would have a square one made the same height as the lounge so when just you and DH are watching TV you can push it against the other end of the lounge and both have a chaise. You can then bring some colour with art work or some patterned cushions on the lounges.

I had a 2nd hand lovely resort style lounge (cane with fabric) which quickly became pulled and tatty after my 2 small dogs had been using it. The leather lounge & two large leather recliners I have show no damage (regardless of long or clipped nails) and both pets love these. Having a blanket the dogs know is theirs is a great idea especially with leather, as the initial cold feeling of leather means both dogs only want to be on the blanket.

hey everyone we have finally moved and we got the sofa bed. It is fantastic. I'm still unpacking boxes and trying to sort through things but I think the layout works as I can enjoy views out to my yard while Hudson plays. Thanks again for your advice and help.