@Oeloe,
initially I wanted to do a new map for HL2DM, so I was aware of it, called AEcantw2 (canyon tower 2)... but since HL2DM just does not really inspire me to map, I will be releasing that map for q3a pretty soon. Along with AEsafe (sock's test map).
@pjw
the purple shot was in there just for the fun of it. I will be going with the colors of the last shot, orange, white and light blue. IMO orange and white are definately in, and the light blue may still change.
@Hipshot
just played your map "Prayers Nest II" and looked at the source of your map. Very interesting how you covered the stairs with botclip. I am normally even more radial covering everything in playerclip. And I also looked at the way you added fog to the bottom of you map, at the suggestion of Todtsteltzer, because the AEsafe map really should have something like fog the the bottom of the map.
About the skybox... you are probably right. But I love lava

... Since I still have no idea where aeglow will actually go, a lot may yet be changed. If you find a good skybox feel free to point it out. Personally I would not want a city scape, I prefer a more opened up view outside.