Help!!

I call this my "entry way" just because it's where I drop everything off, but the only problem is I have nothing to drop the things on. I was going to get a short bookshelf but I just was never positive if that's what I wanted. I thought about a short buffet because I can put stuff on top and store my books for class underneath. My Grandpa said he could build me something if I drew it up but I'm just not sure what style to do. Please help? I accept links to stores as help.