The Ethan Allen Spencer collection is 20% off right now. I think their fabrics are much nicer (even quick ship choices). I prefer the taller frame for back cushions, 6" wide track arm (not too big or small), mortise and tenon joinery construction, cushion choices, back cushion has a 3-channel jacket to keep fibers from shifting and that the bottom foam cushions are wrapped with 3 layers. I worried the very thick cushions of the Gather would breakdown and be hard to replace because of their unusual dimensions.

To start no sectional IMO the most expensive way to get the most uncomfortable seating Comfort comes from arm rests and no matter how big the sectional there are 2 everyone else sits in the dreaded middle of the sofa seat. Get a sofa and 2 chairs and as for the fabric you need to say where it is going . IMO velvet is best in a space where you hardly ever have food or drinks and never with kids. I aslo do not like beige and gray together so a no go all the way IMO. It also is a good idea to post some pics of the space .

I like the Monet Storm. The fabric is soft and the texture adds interest without being too busy. I think it's a very pretty color that looks good next to cream, tan, gray, and white. I like the blue undertone. The darker color will hide stains and you can use light color rugs, pillows, and throws to balance the darker tone of the sofa. We replaced 2 sofas with an l-shaped sectional and don't find issues with seating, we can seat one more person with this style. Everyone does want to lay in the coveted corner though :-)

How will seeing this in someone elses house help with either of the issues you mnetion. If you want a bit of help here we need some info. Where is the furniture going? IMO fabric sofas are not the best choice if you have kids and this is going in a FR.