Need ideas for this corner

[sprior]

I could use some ideas for what to build in this corner.  It has collected games, toys, books, art projects and needs more space.  I'm leaning towards something freestanding instead of built in, the other side of the fireplace has a big TV so a built in on the right would leave the room asymmetrical (assuming that's a bad thing).  I kind of like the shelf unit in the picture because it keeps things somewhat light and doesn't bring a big imposing box to the room, but again could be missing something.  One choice would be to build a base cabinet and then a hutch on top.  The question then would be how high I should go, the ceiling height in here is 9 feet, how high should a hutch go up and not look funny or leave an odd hole above it?  I've even thought about making something similar to that black shelving unit, but wider with a center support so the shelves don't sag, but that's just one possibility.

I'm not sure whatever ends up there needs to stay there for a long time, as our son gets older we'll probably want to get the toys out of there.  For now it just seems like a project perfect for me and my Festools if I can just decide what exactly to build.

Ideas?

 

[Sparktrician]

What about a wall system on either side of the hearth set back, say, 6" from the stonework, and with a 12" high bridge above the mantel between the wall systems, held up to the ceiling, spanning the wall systems?  Paint it to wall color or a light contrast to keep it light so it doesn't overpower the room.  Just a thought... 

 

[sprior]

Here's a picture of the entire wall showing that the other side is pretty much taken up by the TV which is on a diagonal.  So I think for now I'm leaning towards something freestanding and think our needs will change in a few years.

 

[tjbnwi]

Simple 7'6" tall book shelf. Use the top as a shelf for seasonal decorations. As you needs change you can build something else-----possibly in a new to you home.

Tom

 

[leakyroof]

Here's a picture of the entire wall showing that the other side is pretty much taken up by the TV which is on a diagonal.  So I think for now I'm leaning towards something freestanding and think our needs will change in a few years.

  Hmm, if it overpowers the TV side by being too big on the right side/corner, I see your point. Would not be balanced in the room. Smaller, free standing unit as suggested by others. [smile]