I made a column and planter at the end of last summer out of concrete using sono tubes. I did put a plastic pipe inside to reduce the amount of cement. The planter at the top is hypertufa. I was considering painting it but didnt get around to it yet. I may just leave it as cement another year before I decide. I'm waiting for warmer weather before I plant up the top. We are still getting frosts year and the grass I bought isnt that tolerant. I also have to make a repair. I noticed that the whole thing was out of alignment a bit and pushed too hard at the top. I broke the mortar joint and the top tipped overed. Stupid me. But nothing broke. I just have to put it back together. Here is a link that might be useful:

No problem sewwhatsnew! That's what we're here for!! ;) Yes, that's exactly why I was looking for a low back, no obstruction and something that didn't overwhelm. I only needed two, but with six, I would say it's just what you need. They are very comfy and the leather is very nice. The seats are deeper so make sure you have a suffcient overhang, they'll just stick out a bit if not, not a big deal. I would definately go for the black with your granite and other fixtures. I could have gone either way. There are black streaks running through my granite as well as a lot of brown tones. I chose the black to compliment that. The chairs are fairly close to my huge brown leather sectional, looks just fine. Besides, black goes with everything!!

I just called the store to find out when they will go on sale and the gal says they never know when the sales are, so this location might not be flexible. I am hoping for a July 4th sale too. Hey Becky, whenever you know you are coming out my way, give me a shout so you can come over and bring your daughter/family. I will have lunch and cocktails for us...then you can report back here on that decor fopah in my guest bedroom...LOL. Maybe we can coordinate a NorCal Garden Web convention at my place...that would be fun. There is an advertisement running on the right side of my screen for SW paint that rotates through various colors and it keeps staying on "Rivulet" SW6760, a very beautiful turquoise which would be a perfect color for my dining room...IT'S A SIGN I TELL YA!!!!

I like your idea of an accent wall, as long as it doesn't compete with the art work. This post might get more responses on the Home Decorating forum (especially with the paint/wallpaper style question) or the Smaller Home forum. They will really appreciate your creative use of space...and Smaller Homes is a slower forum and questions stay on the first page longer :)