dodge Im in the same boat. I have to consider looks and function as well as sound. Luckily I have a pretty understanding wife.....so far.:)
I just ordered a swatch pack from ATS ACOUSTICS. They have several options of material to cover panels, traps, or whatever you go with. You can customize them with art or photos for extra $. They seem reasonably priced as well.
I have tile floors and the right side of my living room opens up toward the kitchen. Is the open area a plus or negative??
So it seems the first course of action is to treat the first reflection point?? How big should panels be?