The covering of the sofa is less important than the style - go for one that is long enough to lie down on, not too puffy and not a corner suite. The key thing with your dining furniture is to have the same colour legs on your sofa - there is often choice of stain or most places can arrange this for you sometimes oiling it yourself is an option. I have found sourcing nice dining furniture can be more challenging than couches so I would do that first- remember you don't have to match the table with chairs you can mix and match which is usually more interesting. A relatively neutral couch is a good idea but think about durability - personally i am not a fan of black couches unless they are light in frame- they can really dominate your room. If you want lighter style of furniture try places that do retro - mid century as they seem to be smaller and lighter in appearance. Bring in some texture and colour with cushions a clock, a throw rug and art work - but don't rush - take your time finding the right thing. all the best

The dimensions of your dining room are a bit cosy for a traditional dining table set-up. Had you considered banquette style seating which is built into the corner? Do a search on Houzz for "banquette" - some are quite formal, and others are informal. Dining chairs can be added or subtracted as needed. Here is a link to a Melbourne based manufacturer of banquette style seating: http://www.jaro-upholstery.com.au/banquette-booth-seats Consider wall mounted sconce uplights which reflect light off the ceiling so that you never need to worry about the position of a pendant. Best of luck Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

a long narrow table with several bench seats that can slide under the table when not being used... an occupied bench seat along one side needs at least 50cm and a narrow table about 750cm so there would be a walkway behind the seated diners and room at either end for a chair but best configuration depends on the size and location of all doors, windows and any steps and how you plan to use the deck

The dining room is only 3.3 x 3, you do not have room for a table and lounge chairs plus a walkway to outside. Again, the family room is only 3.1 metres wide. This is not enough room for a dining suite and a lounge to be a comfortable space, since again it is a thoroughfare to the terrace. Mark the size of your furniture on the floors with masking tape. Allowing for areas to pull out chairs and comfortably walk around the table, and to outside. The family room could have a long eight seater dining table up towards the kitchen, and then maybe, two single lounge chairs in the space with all the sliding doors.