Help Reform another Clueless Yuppie

Perhaps I shouldn't have volunteered but a friend of a friend has just moved into a new apartment and asked me to help her with a stereo, "home theatre" and multi room music.

I shuddered at the thought of counseling another non enthusiast wanting Bose speakers, flat plasma TVs and silly touch panels in every room, mainly concerned that the speakers were small and wires were hidden.

I was relieved, however, when she said she would consider higher end equipment for the sitting room / TV area. Further good news: she doesnt need a tuner, will tolerate a single disc changer, and wants only remote volume controls in the bedrooms. Can you help me spend her money? I dont have a budget yet but I would guess about $15-20 + K shouldnt be a problem.

1) What components or configuration would you suggest for a SIMPLE, bulletproof, core system that could also function as a home theatre front end using a "virtual center channel".

2) For multi room, what "hidden" or at least discreet speakers would be best? Are Gallo worth a look? And what about subs - she wants to "rock out" at parties.

3) What is the easiest way to remotely adjust volume in the bedroom etc, without getting into the silliness or complexity of changing sources etc. Again, SIMPLE is better. She does not want multiple remotes etc.

Given that all speakers must be "hidden" I am hoping to sneak in a pair of Maggie 1.6s (at least they dont look like speakers), and I was wondering if a Sony 9000 might be convenient to play DVDs, SACDs and CDs. Maybe Bryston power amps for power and reliability? And plasmas are not my cup of tea -- maybe the big Sony HD 16:9 tube and she can move her two plasmas into the bedrooms?

I realize this is a big question and there are many potentially long answers but any and all ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Thank You.