SFGate

carole are there any craftshops near you,or somewhere where they make leaded glass panels,i am sure they could help you make a shelf and a mirror strip to put at the back and they should be able to give you tips on where to get lights for it...

Carolyn Albert-Kincl Design Because you appear to be in the construction industry, I suggest you remove all brick from your fireplace and start over. I would even remove the built-ins.

Lydia I know you would like to put some glass pieces in there but they would stand out much more in the white built-ins with some ceiling lights strategically placed to illuminate them. If you could have a wooden screen made with the same pattern as on the chair to cover up that nook it would be very original and would add visual interest and tie in with the other wooden pieces. You could have the same pattern done on the doors for the built-ins.

carole just found these tiles on etsy..might be a nice feature for the nook???

K.O.H. Construction Corporation Carole,I like the pieces, having a herd time locating them tho'
Carolyn, your correct, I am a builder and a Master Mason. I respect what this Mason done and actually appreciate his work and it is a second home for us.,
Lydia, good idea, let me think about it.
carole,I will search etsy for the tiles, thank you everyone

arlendau If I understand your original request to illuminate glass - contact Deborah Goldhart at Fire & Ice Studio. I met her at a Fine Furnishings Show in Pawtucket RI. Deborah has been exploring the art of glass and light and is very creative. Give her your challenge. www.fireiceglass.com

Darzy I think using the space as it's original intent would look best. Is the nook recessed for plantings? Put plants there with a "grow" light shining on them. Mid century modern funiture in the space. If you dont' really need the bookshelves, I'd remove them and have beautiful art there. A minimal look with fine art and furnishing would appeal to your mid-century modern desires.

groveraxle I searched eBay for yellow under Studio/Handcrafted Glass: http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_odkw=&_osacat=152904&_trksid=p2045573.m570.l1313&_nkw=yellow&_sacat=152904&_from=R40

Then I searched one of the eBay stores for yellow glass: http://stores.ebay.com/Marshalls-Tcg-Loot/_i.html?_nkw=yellow&submit=Search&_sid=651207819

Welcome Home designs Found a photo of an illuminated niche similar to yours. I like the idea of showcasing some interesting pieces.
You will have to balance the walls beside the fireplace so the fireplace truly becomes the focal point of the room.

carole for the glassware i searched under murano / italien glassware...

K.O.H. Construction Corporation Darzy, I agree removing the bookcase and purchasing art, but my lovely bride loves book cases.
Grover, I think you found the source.
Welcome home, this lights from the bottom and that is the look I want.
Thank you everyone.I will post pics as work progresses.