I dunno, do you like this (from our recently remodeled livingroom w/open entry area? Like Kah says, the easiest place to start is from color -- at least that's what my designer wife did first.

Hi, you don't always need to hide the beam .....if treated well it can be part of space like vintage homes.....forcefully trying to cover it up also not work always...make it work by just fixing mirror on it so ur ceiling length doubles up or as suggested by someone earlier putting rafters is good idea. hope this helps

Hi, You can have a sleek console set against the wall with a large painting / traditional artwork / picture of a Deity over it or even a full-scale wall mirror. Adding a backdrop light in the form of a cove behind the artwork can further accentuate the entrance. Further more you can refer to the image for ideas.

Any ideas what to do with this space. The wall on right has access to master bedroom. To the left is the breakfast nook and access to the kitchen. The entry way leads directly into the living room and to the left is the dining room area, which I want to use as multipurpose (that allows kids to play) etc. Any ideas? The walls just seem to separated, do I have the furniture closer together?