Looking for suggestions


I'm new to the forum, so please be gentile.

I'm looking for suggestions on Speaker (by brand, no specific models).  Just a place for me to start exploring options and listening.  

I have a relatively small apartment, but that doesn't have to mean bookshelf speakers.  At the same time a footprint of more that about 4 sq. ft per will start to be an issue.

Thanks!
128x128cdonwine
If your amp is up to it try Magnepan, I had 1.7's with a sub in a similar size room and the sound was incredible. I am now running 3.7's in the same room to amazing results.
As others have commented much depends on your budget and associated equipment.
Yet another question — what speaker and overall sound characteristics are most important to you?  Tone, micro/macro dynamics, detail, warmth, 3D soundstage, etc.?  This will help get you more specific and targeted recommendations from the crowd. 
You'll want to look into 2 way and 2.5 way speakers.
Monitor Audio is a good place to start. You'll find it suits you, or that it's too laid back. :)


Budget? Is this a dedicated listening room?

Do you have room to pull the speakers out from the front wall? Dipole speakers (such as planars and open-baffle speakers) should be 3ft or more from the front-wall to sound their best, while traditional box speakers can often be placed closer without losing as much sound quality.