Heh, both of the above are probably true.
IMHO, the Expedit really call attention to itself and is VERY large and dominating. In reality, most of us don't need to have more than one full day's worth of albums out at any given time, so I'd suggest placing your LP media storage elsewhere. Then consider what might be a decent or optimum placement of your proposed speakers and where that could go. Remember that it may be future speakers you have to think about too.
Ask if speakers with nice wood veneers, glossy piano black, Rosewood, glossy color paint could also work? How about thin black, silver or chrome metal, or wooden stands and small speakers (think LS3/5a size plus small subs) could also do it?
then start doing some brainstorming together on what a nice equipment stand might be like? I suspect lower and nice appearing could be important. They could be open and modern with glass, neutral color wood materials, even a short armoire with doors, glass or otherwise, to close up the system when not in use. Lots of options here. And maybe even space to add some decoration like Lava Lamp (guys stuff) or more pictures, even flowers.
What I'm getting at is - work together and collaboratively, involve her in the aesthetic considerations while you help shape the equipment and gear options. Did you see that when asking about how speakers might look, she could say, well maybe some nice rosewood veneer speakers of this or that size could be used - that way, now you've got an upgrade path for some nice speakers that you don't have now, and she's given you some leeway in choosing. Remember there's a lot more out there than just the typical rectangles, black or grey boxes.
If your wife likes any kind of music, then play it (via ipod or such) to maybe help her understand how much music can help the mood or feel of a HOME. Play some of the kids' music (if it isn't too nauseating) and see how it may be helpful in keeping them occupied while calming them down (this assumes they aren't teens yet!!).
IMHO, having been married for 34 years, compromise and agreement, working together, is a healthy plan for a healthy marriage. Unless you and your wife have agreed upon division of space usage, its important to consult each other when stuff like this comes up.
I don't disagree with some of the other ideas above, especially to live in a home, I just feel working together shows your commitment to your marriage first, rather than the stuff (and music), as important as it can sometimes seem to be.