Is there a way you can check underneath it to see if there is any plumbing or duct work? If not, you can just take it out. However, I think it's cute. It would make a nice lounging spot. Add a cushion to fit the space, paint the panelling white etc.. But a closet area would be nice too.

Why not plop a mattress & pillows there and use it as a daybed/guestbed?

My guess is it was built as a platform for a twin bed. Honestly, with the angle of the roof line you wont get much closet space so maybe put a twin mattress on it and use it as a day bed.

In your office you need a bookcase and you can also incorporate a good Bose Speaker with an iPod. Paint the bottom white and install the bookcase on top also white, I would make the deviders all different sizes to make it interesting.
Great background music is relaxing and you will enjoy being in your office.
Show you're picture when it's done. Good luck

A mattress on that would look great, you could add a lot of pillows (maybe 2 bolsters on the ends as an arm rest) and use it as a reading nook, day bed for mid work naps :P

Towards the far end, right after the bed ends, the wall is straight for a portion after which it begins to slope; you can build in open book shelves here, or just get some nice book ends and line up a stack of books.

I'd make some 'built in' storage that is customized for your needs. Things like your office supplies, books, reference materials will need a home, and using this space will keep them out from underfoot and make this otherwise awkward space more usable. You can probably find some materials on Craigslist, and may be able to barter for some design help or carpentry. Post the jobs as a gig, with pictures of your space, and see what you get back. There are some talented people out there willing to take little jobs. Best of luck!

I would paint it white, add a cushion and lots of pillows, a good reading light and you have a lovely reading nook!

Couldn't you just add a closet rod across the top, put some drawers in the raised part and place a pretty curtain in front? It's hard to tell from the photos, but it looks pretty narrow for a bed. Picture is from Creations By Christie.

Similar to Lornie's picture, bring a 'wall' straight down behind the cushions, so its a proper seat. The 'wall' could, actually, be doors covering up a closet (as has been suggested) or storage. And as others have recommended - find out what's beneath it, and maybe put hinges on the seat and have access to the beneath for other storage. Looks like a GREAT spot for Christmas decorations...

since this will serve as your office ..a built in cabinets (filing cabinets)should be installed..

Add some book shelves behind the seating and storage behind that :)

Pillows pillows pillows ! Pillows can totally redo your look ---while you wait for your ship to come in !

Hi Jenny, Did you end up finding a solution? Would love to see updated photos of what worked!