It took really roughly 7 months, I had to wait 3 months for the upholstery alone. But it's done, thank you all for the above advice. Bellow is a link to the entire project. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153194374366542.1073741828.607091541&type=1&l=f56f1f0e18

Hi Hilda - I've looked at your photos very carefully and I understand that you need very hardy furnishings to withstand the fun and mess of dogs and children! A couple of suggestions I can think of that would help - How about moving the lounge you have along to the middle of the wall and bring it out from the wall so that a bookcase or shelving for toys, books and magazines can be put there? Also the coffee table is really big for the space, maybe a smaller round table that is child friendly (no nasty sharp corners). If your budget is big, a new leather corner lounge in beige leather would look fantastic ! I have dogs and kids and I have a WHITE leather lounge that really stands up to them! The area needs a rug. Don't forget that animal hides are HUGE at the moment and you might like them as you live in a farmhouse. As for extra seating, I think a couple of chairs either side of the centered lounge would be excellent. Think TV chairs that are very comfortable. Milan Direct is also a great source of furniture at reasonable prices and you can order online and have it delivered no matter where you live in Australia. Artwork is very personal but you need a big piece above the lounge and it would even up the TV on the opposite wall. I think green/beige or blue/beige/black geometric might be the color to introduce in cushions, artwork and rug - but you'll have to experiment - remember to look at the colors with the curtains open and closed as light plays a big part in how the colors will look in the room before you commit to buy - You are going to have so much fun making your room over! Good luck - Di Thomas

mischiefdebs has good suggestions. I would clean it up but without losing the natural, rugged look. Change the base and platforms. Don't waste it on cats 'though, put potted plants on the platforms. Definitely don't put it in the garden unless you want it to rot away in no time. Don't despair, it has great potential. ;-)

Yes time for some updates. I painted the table white but had the chairs finished in matt black with a gorgeous velvet fabric from designers guild. It cost a small fortune but was worth it. I've also updated the gallery wall so it's more cohesive and added some new living room furnishings. I'm so happy with the outcome.