Glisten, almost done... Options

[Mikeplyts]

Ok, so I've ultimately decided what layout I want to use for my website redesign. It's a grungy-like layout, and I really like it, but there's just one friggin' problem. I usually have a sidebar where not-so-important content is placed. This content will include/includes advertisements, affiliates, updates, and the like. I really like the layout how it is but I have no idea where to place my sidebar content. I'm trying to not have it placed in an actual sidebar, but I have absolutely no clue as to where I would place it, position it, and in what it will be inside (if it has some sort of container). I'm stuck and I would really appreciate if you guys can help me out on this issue.

click to enlarge

Also, don't hesitate to give C&C if you'd like. Thanks.

[fixtatik]

Look at it this way: do you want advertisements and affiliates (which lead people away from your site) to be considered equal to or greater than the value of the site your visitors are on in the first place? Using a sidebar makes them seem equal, possibly even more prominent if you stick to using white/bright images on a dark layout.

Same deal as before...think about where you want your visitors to look. First impression is above the fold, and you don't really want to send off the effect that you're only about advertisements and affiliates. Your navigation blends in as it is, so eyes first go to the content that you created. After the content, they should go back up to the navigation so they can go to more pages on your site. When they're done, either leave by pushing the "X", or by visiting one of the advertisements or affiliates at the bottom of the page.