If you're unsure about doing anything drastic you could try getting some wall stickers. They are easy to remove and you can get them tailored to whatever your kid / kids are into and then you could perhaps use the colours on the sticker to give that small area more of play identity. I like the idea of having a seat there so adults can sit and play / read with the kids. I like the ideas for chalkboard and magnetic paint but I've used magnetic chalkboard paint before and I would warn you that chalk is dusty, so if keeping this area clean is going to be an issue then think carefully about it. Also magnetic paint needs SO many coats before magnets can really stick to it, so you'd need to factor in much more paint than you think you need and a lot of time to do coat, after coat, after coat.

Hi, I think how you decorate should really depend on your personality. Surround yourself with things or images that make you smile and make you feel good. Another thing is references to nature can actually help to reduce your stress levels. I see you already have a plant and a few wooden elements so that's great. A view out to nature would be even better if you can reposition where you sit. I think you may need to post a few images of the kind of interiors you already like so we can get an idea of your taste before we can suggest prints or clocks. Currently from your furniture your taste looks quite minimal, monochrome and quite slick? Perhaps integrating your TV into a storage wall may add a bit of interest. I hope this helps as a starting point.

I think panelling is a really good idea! It would make a good feature. I also don't think the desk situation would ruin it either! It depends on your style, but this idea would look nice (I know neither image is a study but the panelling idea is cool): Especially if you added a plant and some wall lights. If you don't like darker, bolder colours, you could do the same thing but with a neutral - white, grey or oatmeal.

Photos?