Of course its all about how your going to be using it and the layout. If you cozy up with a pet, human or animal, how that will play out. Are you watching TV or a fireplace or both. Think about windows and how they will reflect onto the TV at different times of the day. Is it a space you read in or play games etc. Also, children and pets or partners grubby socks, does it need cleaning all the time or be stain resistant. Comfort of course plays a huge role or you won't want to use the space. I would think on those things first. Remember its a big purchase and should be in a neutral color, I always gravitate toward a grey or dark leather, to ground the space and liven it up with texture and color by pillows and throws. Good luck

The most kid and pet friendly couch material is leather. So far our blue leather couch has coped with 18 years of toddlers falling asleep and weeing on it, cat vomit, Easter eggs melting between the cushions, spilt milk, spilt orange juice, spilt red wine, spilt coffee, and muddy dog paws. It just wipes clean. Our white leather chair is just as durable and is now 24 years old and just starting to look grubby. So go with beige or cream if you want. It would be a lovely choice, just make sure it is leather. Black or mid or dark brown would also look lovely with that beautiful rug but I think lighter colours would look fresher. Don't be at all scared to use light coloured leather.

Thanks how2girl, yes it is similar. The basin I have posted has quite wide rounded corners and quite a fine edge to it which then seems to taper down gently. As its teamed with an Italian tap, wondering if its also from that part of the world? Any leads from International houzzers? - its really a very nice basin! generous and not too utilitarian.

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.