My wife and I just moved inot a larger home and need to furnish the dining room and family room. We have 2 children ages 3 and 1. We have heard not to invest a lot into furniture as they will destroy it over time. We do watch the kids and discourage this but it could be inevitable. We were looking at Thomasville but it’s very pricey. We realize you get what you pay for but is Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, and Crate and Barrell worth it? If so which is best?

Our house is, Downstairs: kitchen, breakfast room, dining room, living room, family room, foyer, half bath
Upstairs: master bed and bath upstairs with one other bedroom for an office for filing, computer, bills, etc.

Need EVERYTHING (curtains, chandeliers, wall art, furniture, lamps)

except already have one sofa set in the family room with lamps, and have a kitchen table and chairs, and a computer with printer and kitchen gear.

There is already a kitchen and bathroom suite fitted. What do I need for the living room, dining room and bedroom? Just basics, like beds, pillows, etc.
Thanks!

We are buying a beautiful home that I love. I’m just really confused on how we should decorate. The kitchen, dining room and living room are all open to each other. The kitchen cabinets are a medium-blonde wood, but my hubby and I would prefer a darker wood for our furniture. Would this look okay, or should we find something that matches the kitchen better? Also, should we try to match the wood pieces in our living room to the dining room set as well? Thank you so much for you help, any advice would be appreciated!

I am living in a small, furnished apartment in Costa Rica and it would be great if it felt more like home. The main room (which is comprised of the kitchen, "dining room", and sitting area) is an awkward L-shape. The furniture is actually more like patio furniture. I am a teacher, so buying large pricey furniture isn’t yet an option. If anyone knows of any good sites, multifunctional pieces, or tips please help me.