Is that a window in center above the hearth? Is rock just a facade? Looks like you have a mixture of furniture styles. Windows look more of the modern style while drapes are traditional. I would say pick one style and go with that. From the windows I'd be leaning modern/ contemporary. If the rock is just stuck on wall take it off. Replace with horizontal wood planks stained same as your door casings. No mantle. If that is a window I would either have a stained glass insert made (again using modern lines) or do a faux stain glass painting treatment to add some visual interest.

Get the professional sander guys in to repair the living areas and kitchen but don't go too dark with the stain as it will kill the lovely grain in the matai. I'm thinking a couple of tones richer than the timber knots showing in your photo, definitely no yellow tone at all. In NZ stepping on to carpet especially in a kiwi winter is so much nicer than a cold floor board shock!!! A nice area rug for the lounge and you're done.

Thanks charleee, sorry no better photos as house is in another city, I haven't even set foot inside it yet. I am trusting my husband on this one! Our youngest is 5. Thanks Sheilaskb for the strip suggestion and the advice on the carpet. The kids are really good when we go out, holding onto rails etc but it is another story once we are home. I guess I will need to be a little more vigilant once we move in.

There are more cons than pros, I'm afraid. Near black floors will show every speck of dust and need constant maintenance. They also will suck up a lot of light, so you need to add lots of extra lighting. If they are shiny, they also show marks just as a mirror does. They are not the best for re-sale properties either, as most people prefer something more medium toned for the long term. I recommend going with a more classic floor, and then adding black accents in furniture, etc. Your kitchen could be mostly white cabinets with some very dark stained sections. Here are some ideas from modern to traditional. Click on the pictures to enlarge them.