I think the core components such as processor and vid card will be a good foundation that doesn't have too high an opinion. However, for the cases, you are asking for peoples' opinions as most will get the job done. I think the HAF 932 by cooler master looks decent, but it functions VERY WELL. I only care about what I see on my PC screen so I may not be of great help if you want to show off your build to people.
Other than that, I think you will be very happy with $1500 to $1600 build. You definitely don't need to spend more than that and crush all games (spare Crysis) out today and down the road for some time. I am telling you right now, the 5970 or GTX 480 or whatever will be great.