I used to have a PV1 and you're right, they look great and are very compact, but the performance leaves a lot to be desired for truly deep punch and impact.
And I also agree with you entirely about the aesthetics of Subs - they are hideous! Just this huge black box staring at you menacingly in the corner.
After I sold the PV1 I bought a Paradigm Seismic 110 which picked up a good review on here and is still available:
Compact, trouser troubling fun.
www.avforums.com
Much better performance than the PV1, okay aesthetics, but still black. Finally bit the bullet and bought a proper big Sub after trading in the Paradigm for a Monitor Audio Gold W15 - 15" driver, built-in Room EQ, remote control, still relatively compact and not in black!
Since you've been doing your research, you'll know that BK do a range of sizes and finishes to fit available spaces. I do think that the Light Oak DF (any model) is particularly attractive as it looks more like furniture than a Sub.
What's your budget?