Have you thought about making the center of the built-ins like a breakfront? This could house your computer monitor. Then in front of this, place your "pretty" desk. A glass desk would look great, plus would take up less space visually. Off to one side you can place the chair and ottoman with a small side table and possibly place a matching chair without the ottoman on the other side. If not a chair, a chest would work wonderfully on the wall with the door, plus it would provide other opportunities to decorate/accessorize the room.

Hadn't considered that!! But I love the idea. It seems to create more space. Thanks!

I was going to suggest similar to the above. Face the windows when you're at the desk! We recently made that change, and I will never face a wall again. :)

here's another idea I had playing around with the room planner on pottery barn.com - corner desk. what do you all think of this? built-ins again on the back wall, and that's a runner rug in front of them.

we are also still debating hardwood or carpet in here. The attached living room is hardwood, and I do like the look of it. but thinking carpet would be more comfortable. is there a type of carpet that is better if we were to place rugs? just any low-pile carpet? or maybe berber? thanks!