I like the chest. Paint the wall behind it one of the color tones in the cabinet door.

I like the bench a lot. I would put a colorful painting or wall hanging on it and some wonderful pillows. Check out Viktoria and Adam for charming pillows .

Is there space for both the chest and bench ?

i prefer the bench. it has great lines and a welcoming feel.

The bench is wonderful..but it looks too large for the space. I prefer a chest with a large decorative round mirror over it. Maybe a lamp. And a green plant in a colorful pot nearby.

http://www.onewayfurniture.com/pulaski-ds-704209.html?utm_source=nextag020408_OWF&utm_medium=Comparison&utm_campaign=nextag020408&utm_term=pulaski-ds-704209&utm_content=PULASKI%20FURNITURE

http://www.onewayfurniture.com/plk-st-643215.html

And lots of choices here http://www.onewayfurniture.com/bombechests.html#c_t

I love the bench . Mirror and other art pieces for interest. A few pillows for colour.

I like the chest. Is there room for a chair or maybe a small bench? (see photos)

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Pretty table with a mirror above, or painting?

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Sorry I read too quickly and didnt notice the pictures. My style is more pottery barn like, so I would prefer something a little different. You could really do something pretty in this little spot though!

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Both choices are good. The chest, as seen in the picture, gives a more formal vibe while the bench feels welcoming. Which impression do you wish to project? Another consideration is usage. Which are you going to get more mileage off of? The chest provides additional storage, but the bench's heaviest use is someone sitting long enough to put on shoes. Based on these thoughts I feel the chest is the better item. The wall color and objects you place on it can make the mood of that piece of furniture anything you wish.

I like the chest with mirror above, it allows visitors to check themselves before entering living area and the chest gives you a chance to show your decorating style

Excellent spot for art! That would really bring out the room. I have just completed some that would look awesome!!! I also do commission work. Contact me at julie@jul313.com or visit my website at www.jul313.com. Good Luck to you.

I would use the chest, it gives you added storage for accessories, a place to introduce your personality and welcome your guests. You can hang a mirror, or artwork, or a collage of family photos. Add a lamp and some accessories.

Thank you for all the wonderful suggestions.i could use some of them.I really like a console but it may be big for my space.i am wondering if it could work despite being large.

I like the idea of a chest too plus the ones you showed us were not the right look/style for your particular architecture. The cherry would clash with that weathered washed out bench.

How big is the wall? What about something like this : http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Perry-2-piece-Sofa-Table-and-Mirror-Set/6234347/product.html

The wall is 70.5 inches across and the top of the console is 59 inches..

I am thinking about putting a contemporary picture in bold shiny colors to contrast the rugged console

I like the bench but I agree with the designer who said neither piece goes with your traditional architecture. Also a modern rug with an Asian style bench in a colonial home seems like too many clashing styles. You have so much warm honey wood. Why not try to choose furniture that will work with your home instead of compete with it? Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel and Ballard Designs might be good places to start.

May I ask where the bench is from? I love it!

The bench is from Home decorators.

I love the idea of the chest and a piece of colorful art.