That is extremely helpful, thank you so much for all of the advice! I like many of your ideas. To start with, partitioning off a room so that the equipment doesn't intrude would be great. I was thinking many of the same things as you regarding the reflective surfaces, but you really gave me some detailed direction on that.
My wife has told me she's fine with this, so I really hope she doesn't change her mind! It wouldn't surprise me, so I'll keep my fingers crossed.