This discussion shows why options are preferable to suit the many different tastes, but they do require more effort in development. Thus the invitation to help creating the features requested.
As a long-time Linux user who uses GUIs as naturally as the command line, I understand both sides. A pretty design doesn't contradict functionality per se, but in reality it tends to reduce the available options, since they have to fit into the design. And prettiness lies in the eye of the beholder anyhow.
I often compare software design to cars: everyday controls are best placed on the dashboard, the rest goes under the hood. There will always be exceptions that depend on personal preferences rather than functionality, but even among car enthusiasts only a select few care about the visual design of the engine compartment. :) But I think we shouldn't shun the ones who do.
