You can buy corner protectors. You can also put double-sided tape in places that won't accomodate the corner protectors, like the top back of the sofa, where cats like to sit. They don't like the sticky part of the tape, so won't claw.
Yes, leather does feel cold when you first sit in it, but it warms up. I also have a couple of fleece throws that I use in cool weather, and they are warm and cuddly, and also highly washable.
I don't have a china cabinet either, don't want one. I have a hutch for the china my mother bought me for our wedding. I don't even have crystal stemware! Don't really want it - have to be so careful with it. I bought a set of decent looking glasses and wine glasses at macy's. When they break, I replace them.
I have several down throws. The last one I bought a couple of weeks back when I was in Hot Springs. It is a very soft velour type fabric one side, and the other side is a soft, brushed cotton type fabric. I don't know exactly what it is, but it sure feels good against my skin. I'd love to have a long robe out of the same fabric blends. They had these in full size for the bed, too. Wish I'd gotten one of those.