Nice idea. I agree that you have to be careful to hang the frames so they won't be bumped. Put something decorative on that ledge on the left? Not too much -- I like the spareness.

The ledge is designed to be part of your entry focal point and the angled wall leading to the dining room should remain empty to allow for traffic flow. You also don't want it to distract the eye from the built-in focal. I'd put the family pix up the stairs where they could be admired without standing in a hall/passage. You might consider doing the grouping you like at the top of the stairs on the landing. Lower the art above the ledge so it is closer to the ledge than to the door frame on the right. Add an interesting small sculpture. Would suggest you paint the white outlet to match the wall paint. I don't think the vent can be painted because it spans the baseboard and wall.

I like it. Toe nail the frames -clip panel board nail ends at a downward angle -and push into walls to keep them firmly in place.

Love all the ideas.. Considering opening the entry, kitchen and redesigning the area We never use our formal dining room or the office next to the kitchen . Need to find out if we can with support walls and all

Truthfully, I like the entry as it is. I'm agreeing with the idea to put the family pictures elsewhere, lower the picture on the left and add a small ornament on the shelf.