Yes pictures of your spot would be the best! I have been loving these gallery walls lately - probably because I don't have super high ceilings to do that in my home... but it sounds like they might be perfect in your spot! And I LOVE this one!! Hope to see pictures of your space soon!

I love that hall tree! Thanks for the link. I guess I worry it will make it seem too crowded there. I will probably have to wait for the new kitchen to be put in to be able to judge properly. I will definitely consider that, though! I was thinking of just a shelf like in the link below with storage along there and nothing crowding the floor, but I do like the idea of a bench for dropping bags and things. Otherwise I guess we can hang them up (that'll be a novel idea for my kids!! LOL) Here is a link that might be useful: storage shelf with hooks

You could start off with doing some wall paneling, maybe barnwood? Providing you with the natural character of wood without getting into something large, such as an entertainment center. The variation of barnwood alone will give you some nice variation. Just enough to go behind and around the TV. Then perhaps some sconzes on the sides? The picture I have attached is an example in our showroom.

I think the secretary (not a china cabinet) is doing a good job as a visual counter balance to the fireplace at the other end of the room. All the extra knee knockers and chairs should be removed. Use the tiered table in the corner. Indulge in some real flowers on it at this extended holiday time. Add a lower version of that to the table top. Spend some money on rewiring the room for a new chandy to hang 30-36" above the table. Center the table and the secretary with the fireplace, and center a linear chandy over the table. Then spend the big bucks to add a rug 36" larger than your table top all around. Style the bookcases flanking the fireplace with 1/3 books (standing, lying, leaning or stacked,) 1/3 large decor items that can be identified without getting up from the table and 1/3 open space. Dedicate the big blank wall to an art gallery of beautiful pictures with the same mats and frames. It will be beautiful, less congested and really soothing for entertaining.