Thanks Carole, yes we are very keen to knock out that wall - I have to be restrained from bringing the sledgehammer inside until we get a proper load-bearing beam organised! Once thats done and the books are off the floor and on the wall opposite we will have to think of rearranging this space - I still like it split up by a couch, but perhaps we could put a larger dining table in the new space.

I think your original idea to put the TV on the wall between the sliders was correct. I don't think a TV ever belongs in front of a window. After you move the TV, put the two chairs closer together under the window with a table between them, and rotate the sofa to face the TV. You may have to angle the TV (but not the TV cabinet) toward the seating for viewing, but I think it will be a more satisfactory arrangement for you.

Well, for lack of a better idea, since you find it a drafty little space. I'm assuming the draft comes in on the right? Most of the necessities in the area are located of the left side; i.e. vent, thermostat, light switch etc. What I would do I think is caulk up the drafty spots, maybe even add sized poster board wrapped in batting I covered in a gorgeous fuscia with diagonal grosgrain ribbons every which way covered with a heavy velvet to be attached to the area above & below the window. (Of course remove the drapes that are hanging in there). This for the purpose of using it as a pin-it board for notes. Attach a table height board covered in felt to carry across the full width of the little room. Leaving just enough space for a comfortable little antique desk chair. Paint the back wall a bright cobalt blue, paint the ceiling a silvery pearlescent white. Find a way to attach a clip-on task lamp. And stretch a heavy duty enough wire across the top of the opening and complete it with a heavy doubled velvet drape with a drooping valance. Place a swag with fringe & jewels on it to be closed when not in use. Voila intrigue is yours!

Here's an alternative to a recliner that you may not have considered. It is a snuggle chair with matching Ottoman. It swivels too. Available from Plush Sofas. I love ours... So relaxing and there is room for two adults. Available in leather or lots of other fabrics too. I took this photo of the shop display one before we bought ours...