I have setup an entire factions server before and managed it. I am not always available though as I have to run my own server. I will add you and if you have any pressing questions I would be glad to answer them! :-)
Don't just use ice. Use a variety of blue glass, there are many options! I also suggest adding buildings into winter scenes, not large, but small cabins always add to a winter scene. Good luck! :-)
I think a cool build would be a greek city. If you are looking for a smaller build, then maybe a small farm with a nice red barn, a windmill, and a farmhouse. I have never gotten around to building a greek city but it is always something I wanted to do. Good luck! :-)
I believe that most people stay interested in minecraft because of the endless possibilities. You can stay entertained in a survival or towny server by making beautiful towns or city creations. You can stay interested in creative gamemodes but literally having an infinite amount of possible structures and buildings to make. People also stay interested in the PvP because... well frankly who doesn't like slapping people in the face with a sword and spraying someone down with arrows?