As far as the first room goes, I thought I made it pretty obvious with the elevated area. I'll try to find a way to make it a little more obvious. Also, if the scary music creeped you out after dropped down, you might not be able to stomache the rest.
As for the monster in the hallway, I never did play Penumbra, so I'm not sure what you're referring to. But I am glad that you enjoyed it!
Oh, and thanks for the feedback guys! Keep it coming!
Just had a thought for the "hint" for what to do in the first room. I could just have a noise of a slight draft coming from there and only when you're standing pretty close to it. I'm sure that'd help.