Can you post more pictures? The one in your link is a unusual area. It looks like a high traffic area for a TV.

As far as the ledges go, you don't need to put anything one them. You could add some color to the niches and put art or sculpture in them.

Another option is to close them off. The opening over the TV is a view to the lighting in the kitchen area.

Houssaon,

Thanks for your reply. The house deal just fell through, so we no longer have the issue!
CB