Thanks Carole, yes we are very keen to knock out that wall - I have to be restrained from bringing the sledgehammer inside until we get a proper load-bearing beam organised! Once thats done and the books are off the floor and on the wall opposite we will have to think of rearranging this space - I still like it split up by a couch, but perhaps we could put a larger dining table in the new space.

I think it is awesome to give a piece of furniture a new life. It is sometimes a bit daunting to take a paint brush to a piece made from genuine old timber but if you are going to get many more years of life and enjoyment out of it I think it is better than dumping it. I believe it shows your love. jbof4 I started with a heat gun to remove most of the many layers of paint, (some are easier than others to strip this way). Then I used an orbital sander and sanded and sanded and sanded. You might also try liquid paint stripper although I find this very messy. I believe you can also get them professionally stripped. Good luck with the resurrection, go for it what have you got to lose.

Here's an alternative to a recliner that you may not have considered. It is a snuggle chair with matching Ottoman. It swivels too. Available from Plush Sofas. I love ours... So relaxing and there is room for two adults. Available in leather or lots of other fabrics too. I took this photo of the shop display one before we bought ours...

I love trunks! Add such character..hope you can keep yours. One of mine is a military chest brought out with my great grandfather when he emigrated to South Africa, all he had was in it..in 1892, age 19. He had 10 children. We emigrated to NZ with it 20 years ago..our history with it. Could never sell that one!!! I found an example of what I think would work under the tv..now to afford it ha ha!.