OP- Can you provide details on what color scheme (or neutrals) you are considering for your new home?
As far as a layout goes- you might consider:
4 large over stuffed chairs with a round ottoman in the center. Center this grouping in front of the large fireplace- This will provide your family with a place to hang out and read and also, sit with another couple, have cocktails and chat in an intimate setting.
Then, on one end of the room, preferably by the front window, center an elegant wooden card table against the wall (centered under the window), and two chairs facing each other. This will be a place where you can play cards, games, or set up a puzzle that you don't have to rush to finish. You can pull the table out from the wall and add chairs when you have more than two using it. You could also designate this as a homework table for the children. Additionally, you can use these smaller chairs to pull into the center seating area when you have more than a couple over.
Make the fabrics a bit formal but soft (linen or mohair chairs-not leather) because this is your living room. Simple but elegant panel drapes will give the room a finished look.