YouTube is making changes to benefit the VIEWING experience. The more that viewers enjoy watching videos and hanging around on YouTube, the more that creators will benefit.
Upon looking at ijustine and epicmealtime, I see that YouTube basically makes MY information (as a User/Viewer) available in the left-hand column. My Watch Later, Watch History, Playlists, Messages, and Subscriptions. My interpretation is that it makes the USERS
Sure, the background image is gone but the Channels still get the whole center of the screen plus apparently, the channels also get to put information in the right-hand column.
I do understand how creators are disappointed that they apparently lose the ability to have a large background image to give their channel some individual personality. Well, as far as the internet goes, screen space is vital real estate and it should be utilized as best as possible to create a good user experience.
There needs to be a balance between the creator's needs and the user's needs. I have no problem with the changes.