Couple of things with these barrister bookcases: if you (like me) have large books (textbooks, art books, dictionaries, encyclopedias, etc.), you will need to make sure that the barrister bookcases are deep enough. I found that several were too narrow for my larger albums and collections. Glass doors are really elegant and keep the dust off the books (important for my allergic family), but they do tend to discourage casual browsing (also good to keep little sticky fingers off your nicer books, but a bummer for adult readers who become reluctant to pick something off the shelf). My guess is that anythign in a glass case becomes "collectible" instead of for everyday use and enjoyment in the eyes of those who are browsing. I prefer the Hampton Bay bookcase, but that's probably because it resembles my favorite furniture piece in my house. :) Make sure you check on ebay in the antique and used furniture section. Last time i looked, I saw many wonderful pieces that would work great as bookcases -- particularly some old curio and china cabinets. You might find something really spectacular there and get a great price. After I had already purchased my bed and the barrister bookcase from EA, I won on ebay a 1940s demi-lune Drexel dresser (mint), an 1880s French marble top side table with drawer and door (near mint), a gentleman's armoire, and a small buffet for super cheap -- all gorgeous pieces and I didn't pay more than $250 for any of them. (English Gentleman's armoire, reproduction circa 1950) French marble top side table, circa 1880s and 1940s Drexel demi-lune dresser (used as bedside tables -- ignore the lamps; they're in a "transition" stage) (small buffet)

Thank you all!! Oakley - My Dad does have mad workworking skills but his back is having some issues and he has a lot going on with work right now. We started a little project together months ago and I don't see that it will be finished anytime soon. Alex - I would maybe consider a dresser there if I could find the right one. The walls are smooth. Java - Ha, I also hope I can keep all my energy! Tuesday - Aw, thank you. I was nodding my head reading the rest of what you wrote about your DD. You've always reminded me of someone I'd get along with well IRL. Thanks again everyone! I change my mind daily about what I want to do with that area. I really want to decorate a bookshelf but I think I'll appreciate a cleared floor by the end of the day. However, I may run into that perfect something tomorrow. I have nursery ideas for both a girl or boy that I'll need some help refining. We will be finding out and crossing our fingers the Dr. is correct as I have specific directions I want to go with each. Stay tuned!

Allison, good to know you also feel that way about the trim over the entertainment center. I will do a mock-up. I guess my one question would be, if I were to decorate the ledge above that white trim (the trim is the forward edge of a ledge that goes back about 3 feet and the full length of that wall) would it still be good to have it all one color? I don't know that I would decorate the ledge. I've been on the lookout for something to put up there but in almost 4 years, I haven't found anything yet. I just wonder because it defines a change in levels.

I would finish both sides flat. TV on the right side, over a narrow console. Left side, a piece of art and a plant? A low cabinet and a striking lamp on it? I just don't see any advantage to built-ins here, for the reason you note. Unless you have a giant book collection that is overflowing all the storage elsewhere, keep it normal here. Fireplaces require neither built-ins nor symmetry. I do like the little built-out zone in this last one -- you could do something similar in the left corner to give you some splashy display while leaving the remainder of the wall at the base depth...