Will you ever be closing the drapes? Are both wall heaters set back from the window edge like the unit on the right wall? Are the heating units water or electrical? If the heaters are set back from the window edge, I'd hang full length panels if you aren't going to draw them closed. And if the heaters are water there is very little chance of fire, altho heat output will be affected/redirected by drapes. Yes, you want the rods the same height, and if you choose to go with shorter drapes, make them the same length along the bottom. The window sill on the right looks to be a little lower so, IMO, the bottom of the drapes on the left should be the at the same level as the drapes on the right.

I have windows that meet in the corner just like that. You ask about getting on rod that is 'L' shaped but you would still need a "center" support in the corner for it to stay up and that would be awkward. I got my rods at Pottery Barn I believe. All I did was buy two rods that had removable finials. I put up two brackets over each window with proper placement and only put the finials on the outside ends having the rods set so they meet in the middle. Really, nothing special had to be purchased. I use rings for the curtains and they meet at the corner without any gap. If you are using curtains with the rod run through them then there would be a problem with the curtains meeting without a gap but that problem could be taken care of with a little cut in the curtain. BTW track drapes are "in" again and with a very updated sleek new look. These may solve someone's dilemma where windows meet at the corner. http://www.potterybarn.com/products/track-rod-window-hardware/?pkey=crods-finials Here is a link that might be useful: They are

I have children in their 20's, but also have many large gatherings with all my young nieces and nephews. We've had 11-12 sitting at the table at one time playing cards/board games. My Mom is 85, she is shown in the pic above, she had no problem sliding over to have dinner. :-) Never heard a complaint about the nook. I didn't have a seat cushion, but used pillows for your back if necessary - but, I never needed one. I think a built in nook is a personal decision. I loved mine and am repeating the same thing in my new home. Everyone comments on how nice and comfy the nook is. Plus, it's pretty. @Brian - on my last home, the back of the seat met the window sill at 36". My builder has placed the windows in my new home also at 36".

I know you're not interested in moving the fireplace. However I'm posting this not only for you but for those who lurk to see another way of arranging the living room. This arrangement gives you a lot more room for arranging furniture and more light because it's allowing lots of natural light from the front and rear. In the front hall, a low table can be put under the windows and in the living room, you can arrange an L shaped sitting area to take advantage of the fireplace, tv and the backyard views. The tv can be put on a swivel extender for optimal viewing. On the front porch it also allows for a seating area if wanted. There is a straight shot from front door to rear door and the rear door can be all glass. Now the door doesn't interfere with your seating arrangement. I noted in darker pink how much more room you have for seating compared to the older version. New: Old: