The default is wrong
Default kid-friendly specs are beige performance sofas, plastic-laminate case goods, and ottomans with hidden storage. They're durable but visually boring, and most clients eventually hate them. Better: specify for durability inside a real aesthetic.
Durable materials that aren't compromises
Solid-wood case goods with catalyzed finishes take more abuse than plastic laminates and look better. Slipcovered upholstery is washable without looking like it belongs in a rental. Leather develops character from scratches and scuffs. None of these require giving up the design vision.
Shape and scale matter
Kids destroy sharp corners and thin legs before they destroy fabric. Spec rounded silhouettes, turned legs, and low-profile cocktail tables. It's cheaper than replacing broken pieces and looks better than bumpers.
The one place to accept performance fabric
Family-room sofas get food spills. Everywhere else (dining chairs, accent chairs, bedroom seating) you can spec natural fibers without losing sleep. Don't let the family room's fabric requirements spread to the rest of the house.