I'd leave the wood. The piece defines the entry space and gives a glimpse to the DR beyond. I'd have a simple ceiling light in the entry and always keep the DR chandelier light on. Style shelves simply: see photo below on left. 2 large glass decanters. a short, elongated box on next shelf and nothing on next shelf where DR chandelier is showcased.

I vote "paint it the wall color", too!

Probably cost prohibitive, but it would make a fantastic salt water aquarium!

I kinda like it! and Darzy - the fresh flower comment was exceptional! A must do for the space!

Looks like the top half is drywall? If so, paint the same as the room color.
Looks like the bottom is cabinets? Keep those
The top (is that a counter top?) looks very stark black in your house that otherwise looks very light in color. I would replace the counter to something more in-line with the rest of your color scheme.
Fill the shelves with lovely family photos.

maybe a cool stained glass piece? It would keep it light and draw you in to what is behind it.

I would light the top and use it to display some fabulous artifact, interesting antique, or beautiful piece of blown glass.

If it hadn't been mentioned already, I would considering painting the unit white to freshen it up a bit.

I would replace the glass shelves with wooden shelves and paint the whole thing one solid color. Then it's all about how you accessorize it. You want to find objects that look good from both sides since it is open. I would stay away from picture frames for example. With this being something you see when you first walk in, add some color and personal style to the shelves. Get a great vase with some flowers!

I love the wood. I also would not paint it.

Maybe if you backed the glass shelves with frosted or reed glass or a mirror, you'd like it better. You would not see through to the dining room.

Artwork could go in the other side.

Hi Jk - Can you post any more pictures of your entry way to show what it looks like looking From the dining room and at your entry door? Do you like being able to see through the piece or would you prefer to close it up visually? What would you say your style is? :)

Also, do you store anything in the cabinets currently/does this area have a function for you?

You have the perfect spot for a ventless double sided fireplace.

its sort of hard to picture why this is right inside the front door but have you considered turning it into a mudroom piece with hooks for coats, mail, bags, keys, etc.?

I would take out a few shelves and hang a nice stained glass piece from the top, so it would fill in the
top portion of the opening. Or an old window with panels in it. This is a great way to create a focal point in the entrance way and if you used a stained glass piece it would be ideal with the light coming in from the windows)

An aquarium would be fantastic in this space!

I agree Dura! Said so two months ago! Wonder how the project is going?

Same here! Hopefully jkriley will give us an update when the project is complete.

Same here! Hopefully jkriley will give us an update when the project is complete.