Also any suggestions for the rest of the design?

For under the desk I would be tempted to paint it black, especially if you think shoes will scuff that area. For the rest of the design, who will be using this area, kids? Adults? The first thing that comes to mind would be floating shelves: [houzz=]

Thanks...desk too deep to scuff wall. I'm a teacher and I have two primary school kids who will use it with me. It's large enough for all 3.

Well, you probably don't want to paint again but I can see framed chalkboards above the desk, and chalkboard paint is quite reasonable. As for below the desk, I would leave it as is.

emilywq1, no one cares! Stop already!