Dan, I appreciate the feedback. My dad seems set on some kind of tile, not wood, but I'll mention bamboo to him again. I know I like the look of it in my friend's basement.

Does anyone have any links handy for equipment closet builds? Beyond the convenience of having the gear to the side of the seating, as well as improved aesthetics, my goals are to isolate the sound of the gear and provide effective cooling. I'm still foggy on how to accomplish this, so if anyone knows of great references for these questions, I'd be indebted.