I would ask them to move it to the center of the wall (outlet can be moved), and then build a cabinet over it. At least then , it would look more like something that belonged there.

cat_ky Unfortunately it'll have to stay where it is, but I agree if it could have been centered it would have looked better.

I don't think it is ugly. I lived in a 1929 house that had radiators. I installed custom radiator covers in all of the rooms to cover them--that was expensive and a pain. Anyway, I would put some plant there, like ivy (spider plant), that hung down and made it seem like a cool architectural element. I would also go to a stone yard and find a cool remnant that fits that spot. I'd have it cut to 28" x 20.25" (an inch or so wide than the air return) so that there is a small ledge hanging over it on the two sides.

If you didn't mind spending money or are handy, I think you could build a cabinet on top of it was glass sides with maybe a soffit on top and take it up to the ceiling.

Place an art object on it so it functions as a display shelf.

Do something like this radiator cover. I'd extend it over so it's a foot or so larger so it doesn't look like it's crammed in a corner.

I am not familiar with this type of air return only ones in the wall low down where the colod air collects . I do not see the function part of this at all . Maybe atake a pic from the other space to show where this is doing its job.

You can put monstera plant on it. It will look beautiful and bring life to your room.

No, if it's made to look like a bookcase, the current location is ok -- you can put a plant or floor lamp next to it. I'd probably just put a book case from top of this to ceiling and call it a day. Alternatively, you could put false cabinet doors in front of the lump. Third possibility, build a cabinet next to the lump at the same height and build a bookcase all the way above both, making it look like a built in with cabinets. Or, fourth, just leave as is, top with a cool sculpture! its already under a spotlight! :)

I agree, have a cabinet built the fill width of that wall, with shelving or glass cabinets above and doors to hide the bumpout and the empty space to the left of the bump out. You could probably have a couple of shelves behind the doors, in the empty space to the left behind the door.

Also, I can't say I've dealt with a box in the floor, but I have dealt with a pipe chase that left an odd shape next to a closet, by building a shallow bookcase to even them up!

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A tall plant would be nice until you find the perfect sculpture.

I'd probably put a top on it--either painted wood or a marble slab. It looks like it's just drywall which is pretty dentable.

It's really neatly done so at least you can be glad about that.

It’s a cool spot for a record player and shelves above for albums. A tall floor plant 🪴 would balance out the space too next to the bump out. I’m picturing something with lots of branches and small leaves.

The other side of the wall where you see the air return grill is a hallway.

I would have built the bump-out to the ceiling in the living room and opened it up (above the vent) in the hallway. Made it into a linen closet or other storage with cabinet doors.

Can I just say I love your paint color? What is it?

Best wishes!

Nothing costs less than drywall and paint. Take it right up to the ceiling, add/return the crown, and it's just a jog in the wall. Hang some art vertically and be done.

Failing that ?Float nice 1/2 inch thick shelves above, no more than three, unify pots and do a boho collection of plants.

Ci lantro was 100% correct up above _ they created the ugly by NOT going to the ceiling: )

Turn it into a closet with a door and just shelves inside.

they created the ugly by NOT going to the ceiling: )

And they made it a bigger ugly than it needed to be. Looks like it is 2x4 framing rather than approaching it with a cabinet builder's perspective of building a carcass to house the HVAC. Likely that it could have been at least 2 1/2-3" smaller in length & depth had they went the carcass route. (Like how refrigerators are often enclosed in kitchens.)

but before I bring a carpenter

You can consult with a carpenter but you may get a better solution with someone who builds cabinets. Which isn't to say that a carpenter can't or won't use cabinet construction methods, just that it will depend on how flexible & creative the person is.

If you build straight up will you have a problem with the recessed light fixture location? Will you be able to find crown moulding to match to wrap the top?