We have an opening between the living room wall and the kitchen, about 8 feet wide by 5 feet tall (the wall framing goes up to counter height, then opens up).

This opening provides a scenic view out the living room window from the kitchen island, while at the same time allowing the living room sofa to back up against this wall.

We thought about making the top of the divider into a narrow counter to match whatever we use for the island countertop. However we are leaning against that idea because we are afraid it would get filled up with unsightly beverage cans, mail, TV remotes, and all sorts of temporary items that guests would leave around.

So now I'm thinking of something "natural" like a pebble rock formation along the top of this counter height wall, or maybe some kind of water feature. Or maybe a spreading "air plant" that drapes down and doesn't need soil.

Something interesting as a conversation piece?