right off the entrance

Are you (ironically) talking about where the Christmas tree and two chairs are located?

I've spent time in Zen centers. They are empty spaces dedicated to meditation, not decor or plants. The most traditionally Zen thing you can do is add almost nothing at all. Clear the floor. Place a meditation cushion in the corner that you carry out when you are sitting meditation. Have a short alter bench or box sits against the wall and is no higher than shoulder height when sitting on the floor.

If you want to practice yoga here, then store your yoga belongings also in the corner, perhaps in an open box, and roll out the mat when you need to practice.

Is there a reason all the furniture is pushed back up against the walls?

I had three kids 6,5,3 that run around a lot so just for them to run around

No I have some space they look pushed back but there is space I can pull out the couch more