Thanks for thinking of us! Something totally different now as many said this plan in reality wouldn't work;-(.....so, going to do large shower next to vanity, leave toilet where it is now (which is where it is in second picture) and put an armoire acting as privacy wall next to toilet...open up doorway to 42-48" so bath "suite" type look when you come in room...then guest bath will have tub/shower (traditional) I gave up on dream of clawfoot...;-( what do you think?

My sister has the same "alcove" in her beautiful home. As you enter, you pass the stairway, turn around, and look up, way up. She has a beautiful but small table there, and a very big beautiful flower arrangement on it. At Christmas, she decorates it with lighted Christmas trees, garland and wrapped presents (fake). She has to have someone climb a very tall ladder to do all of that but it's worth the effort.

Obviously if you intend to keep shelving in there you're going to need to be sure that it is sturdy - none of this chipboard with veneer stuff they sell at Office Depot. Also be certain anything with height is anchored to the wall since it sounds like you have more than one climber who could potentially pull it over on themselves. If there is space maybe consider having an actual climbing wall installed? I second the idea of having the lower shelves dedicated to bins for the toys and middle shelves children's books with the adult books on the upper shelves. Are the lockers for storing personal property or were they supposed to be where the toys got stored? Only keep them in the room if they are being used. If you keep metal lockers, an auto shop can give them a custom paint job in just about any color under the sun and might even be willing to do it if they can write it off as a donation to the shelter. For art you might get one or two children's easels with either blackboard/whiteboard or the big white pads of paper they use in business meetings. Something that can be folded up and use less space when not in use. You could potentially dedicate a wall to art by using chalkboard paint or adding corkboard so the kids can hang up their masterpieces. Get a couple of hippity hop balls, sit and spins, or something else acceptable for the kids to get their energy out on. That should help cut down on the climbing activity.

Thanks, I have seen that but they are out of CA so I am thinking shipping might gauge me. I might try them tomorrow though. As for the door being big, yep it is :) My husband does not want to have a smaller one. I thought about a sidelight but I don't think they sell them in 6 inches.