Shifting pedals?

First, figure out what you want the bike for. If you want a racing bike, go with something high end - a Raleigh Professional, Peugeot PX-10, etc. If you want a touring bike, cruising bike, commuter, etc.

Second, figure out what components and frame type you want. The world doesn't begin and end with lugs, but they are pretty, and some say that they make the bike ride nicer (not really MY experience with them). If you want to go with ergo shifting...well, it's your bike. Cable routes can be similar, as you're just moving the shifters out to the brake levers. You'll need to get new derailleurs and new cables, as well as a new rear hub, if you weren't planning on doing that (which you were). I wouldn't suggest it simply from an aesthetic viewpoint. Also, if you want on-bar shifting, go with bar end shifters - they're more period correct, aren't fugly, and do the job nearly as well. You can also stick with a 7 speed rear end and not have to stress the frame as much as you normally might. Cable routes can be similar, as you're just moving the shifters out to the brake levers though

Deep V's usually don't look all that good with vintage frames - just look in the Fixed Gear section of the board!

Finally, it's your bike. Do what you want. If you want ergo shifting and 30 speeds, you certainly can do it. I'd stay away from French stuff, as it's harder to find things that will thread onto and fit into the weird french stuff, but otherwise, just find a frame of the quality you want and have at it.

BTW, what size do you want? I"ve got a 48 cm Nishiki Sport that I need to unload. $50 takes away the frame and fork.