Think of is as a jewelbox for your home - what is that tiny thing you wish you had room for - a library, tea room, colectibles showcase, reception area, vlog office? Don't get caught up in the door situation, a screen is enough when you want to redirect the eye. This is a good place for things you don't dare try in other areas - wallpaper, blown up photos of the family giving the stink eye, a curiosity case, a cat highway, the bar that doesn't fit elsewhere -Have a brainstorming session ( cocktails are recommended here, as well), and see what you can come up with!

Nice...I like the way you think! I also have to remember that it's the first thing that people will see when they enter our home so I can't go too crazy.

Do go crazy! You can always pull back later, so start off with big ideas for your small room, and you are more likely to create a more exciting 'greeting card' for your guests to enjoy. Good luck!

We have one just like this and till we do knock down walls...it's a library with our collection of rare books andd seashells ...it's become a cozy nook where my sons love to read. And I get to display my antiques without worrying...too much.

Finally got the pic to post!

The other weird piece is that a reading area is awesome, except we have one upstairs...

Also, is there a term for a room or entryway like this?

Put a gurney in it and call it "Triage".

1) Make it a small game room, by adding a billiard table. 2) Exercise room 3) Office

Well, maybe a different kind of reading spot, then. Play time -

I want to get rid of the dead end aspect, so maybe a window (!) seat hidey hole

that will bring the back wall forward:

both.

Back in a sec.

Love that last one most of all!

In front and to the side of this is another seat. Maybe that means a chair, or chaise, or maybe an entire L shaped banquette sofa, rather than a hidey hole.

In front of that is a statement piece - could be a traditional round table for books, incoming mail, etc.....

could be something more interesting for guests

Drapes at the window, blah blah blah.

Different than upstairs, great way to greet guests, and a fun place to be when you are waiting for family members to get ready.{ So says I :)}