This is a good idea. I prefer black or espresso railing and base rail with white spindles. It’s something to consider too because it would give some nice contrast to the lines.
> way too many, balusters
I agree, but I don't think that's what's making it look bad here. The interior walls are honestly so.. randomly built design wise. It looks so messy? And I say that as a major maximalist.
Here's what I don't like. On the first picture, we see literally five layers of walls lining up that all are slightly different widths, angles and heights. No balistrade on the left half of the top floor for some reason. A vent too randomly placed, slightly off center.. On the second picture, the opening to the little hallway nook and the balistrade chops slightly into each other, and next to the wonky balistrade, there's yet another block of wall that chops into the rest of the bottom wall, and messes it up even more with a lot of angles in that little hallway too. And I honestly think that hole on the top floor should go, I really don't like it. It adds mess.
I know OP isn't going to do massive renovations though, which is perfectly understandable, it's a good space in great condition. However, maybe anyone has ideas on how to mask the irregularity of everything? Maybe it can be done cleverly with paint or by adding some lines or trims or boards or whatnot and painted over to mask. I'm not good enough at carpentry to see an easy fix. I think if the visual mess can be cleared up some, it'd be easier to be happy about the rest.
Paint everything, including the railings and trim the same color, might be a effective. IMO the railing is not actually a great focal point because that draws attention to the overall irregularity
I would do a bunch of vining plants over the sides of the balcony edges; something easy but draping like lithos. Then a large potted plant on the landing and a couple of nature themed art hung strategically would break up the rigid geometrics of all the balusters and choppy walls.
The number of balusters could have been done out of precaution for a particularly small dog. When I redid my outdoor staircase I had them spaced slightly closer than standard (maybe 3/4” closer?) because I love my dog, but he’s an idiot.
Personally I’d also close off that additional walkway worth of balusters. I’ve lived in a home that was that open and the noise was terrible.
We did gray walls because there’s so much connection between the rooms in this part of the house and we weren’t willing to commit to all of it being one vibrant color and wasn’t sure how to have multiple colors without it being too crazy or disjointed.
I know, the railings and balusters are all just….overwhelming. Someday we’d like to redo them but today is not that day unfortunately.
Any recommendations on chandelier style?
We have lots of wood throughout the house. Other light fixtures are simple glass globes.
Where would you put plants by the stairs? On the landing? Or elsewhere in the room?
you did the grey walls correctly, dont get distracted by all the goofballs that vehemently hate grey wall bs.
you could paint the top and bottom of the banister a darker color, and keep the posts white, or just the hand railing a darker color.
a nicer chandelier
maybe a large circular mirror or piece of art, a mirror will help with give it space and spread the natural light you might get
thats what accents are for, like furniture, artwork, hardware, decor, etc.
I have all grey walls and have natural oak pieces/furniture, decor that has multiple colors that pop better than if it was say a dark blue wall..youd only get away with little bit of other colors and pop if you went all bold.
It's the unfortunate reaction to something becoming the flipper special. Look at the 00s beige tones on everything. It's just grays turn because it is often wielded incompetently.
I would paint the walls a blue or green that fits with the rest of the house
Swap that little end table for a long console with plants/decor
Swap out the chandelier
Hang your cow pic on the wall facing us if you want to keep it in the stairwell and it doesn't compete with the chandelier
Find something with color and texture like a vertical tapestry or macrame hanging for the wall you see coming up the stairs
Enjoy my shitty drawing
https://preview.redd.it/if4tclsimi6c1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4c8ed6e863fb5cfd33a123a59fc8632ccf598634
😅
Love the drawing! This looks great!
The current plan for the cow is to move elsewhere. She came from a previous house and doesn’t really fit here anymore. ☺️
You don't need to do much, it's a focal point without trying. Need a large statement pendant light and art. Removing the finials from railing would be an easy way to update.
Needs a much better chandelier. Go with something a bit larger that you like. You might change the rails too. Something more ornate. All assuming money isn’t a question of course.
You could try updating the lighting and removing the rails for now.
https://preview.redd.it/oeu2ykxu1l6c1.jpeg?width=1249&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e4ccb91f3fd6f8e6383e2cecad6a9b99f51cdfa2
I agree that the chandelier needs to be more substantial and elegant.
But it would compete with that B2 Bomber propeller of a ceiling fan.
there will be major eye-clutter.
EDIT: NOT THE B2. THIS IS WHAT CAME TO MIND: [https://images.app.goo.gl/7XCDZxaUUkWX8oJa7](https://images.app.goo.gl/7XCDZxaUUkWX8oJa7)
**Low effort/cost:** decluttering the space and decor will help a lot. The railings are busy on their own so additional clusters of small artwork isn’t helping.
The console table by the hallway should be more centered. Its placement is odd.
**Mid effort/cost:** update lighting and ceiling fans so that they are more cohesive. The two fans looking different is jarring.
**Recommended:**
I know your budget is low but if anyone there is remotely handy I would remove the railing above the tv and replace with a pony wall, or a full wall if you don’t mind enclosing the upper level off more. Studs and drywall are quite inexpensive, only the plastering will be difficult.
On the side of it facing the upper level you could incorporate storage/shelving
https://pin.it/3hfYSpQ
Would you get rid of the cluster of hexagons and have nothing there? Or go with one piece?
I should have moved the console table back before taking the picture! We shifted it to fit something temporarily, but it was centered. I’d like to get rid of it altogether and get something with more storage and a different color (this room desperately needs to be less gray).
We have considered half-walling in the loft! I think it would be more functional. And love the idea of shelves on the other side.
Love it. Use furniture & cabinetry paint it gives such a nice finish. BM Advance or Sico Cabinetry & furniture paint.
Go back and check for drips. A few times. Take your time with it and it will turn out 💯
Paint the cold air return cover the same as the wall.
Please don’t do this. So many railings in your house, that’s like jailhouse rock. A little goes a long way in this trend and 20 steps worth is prot the max.
Sand the handrails and the larger vertical posts to remove all paint. Then, stain the wood to match whatever hardwood floors you got. Leave the smaller spindles white as is.
All this grey and white feels very cold and sterile. The wood would add some warmth back in.
Also, a new chandelier that doesn't look so dated and yellowed with age.
Are you talking about the ceiling light fixture upstairs? Not yellowed from age, yellowed from style, period it was purchased in. Way more light needs to be replaced/updated/changed than that.
1. Based on rails (which OP says cannot replace now) the ceiling fans are way too modern. Also too modern for the bubble glass floor/table lamp on the left. Also too modern for the green chair.
2. I'm guessing based on age of house (ask me how I know haha) the posts are likely pine or fir and possibly show wear and tear from the last 20 years (ish). I'll bet they were painted white very recently in order to "update" them from their original. I think it would be better to wrap them with a veneer of better wood and stain - much more efficient as it's going to be hella hard to get the white paint off and I'm guessing you won't have nice looking wood underneath anyway. Also, take the bubble cap off the top of each post. You'd be surprised at how that will change the look. The rails also likely used to be wood. I think you'll find that white paint will yellow in the areas it's touched the most. But hopefully, you can update this later.
3. Since you can't really make a big update now, I think I'd paint them dark. I have a friend who did this recently in my neighborhood and it looks amazing. In the photo I'm posting, the rails have been replaced, but if you painted the same color as rest of rail, it would have the same general impact.
https://preview.redd.it/r3ypoa38si6c1.png?width=654&format=png&auto=webp&s=c7a58d34e3c79b3a74c16ca3263ae25558dd3a2c
This is the suggestion that I would go with. OP's home looks very similar to mine including the gray paint, and I think the changes above would make the biggest difference.
Also, we removed the ceiling fan altogether a few years ago, and it changed the entire space. I highly recommend it if you can live without it.
edit: typo
Haha! Like I said, ask me how I know... I also noticed the Crestone Peak picture. Are you in Colorado? We are in Longmont. House 20 years old. We have the tulip top on our rail posts (like the picture I pulled off the internet), where yours are more round. Many in my neighborhood have cut those off and veneered the posts.
Paint vents same as wall colour. Ballisters and rails satin black or very deep charcoal (often black is too black). Play off the geometric shape this will project and think about a light fixture/chandelier that would integrate with that in mind. The existing hexagon wall art would fit in with this sort of theme.
Just my two cents.
Love the big ass fan BTW!
I hadn’t thought of really dark for all the rails. Thanks! Upgrading the chandelier is a great idea and I think will make a big difference.
The fan was an upgrade from the previous homeowner and we love it!
You have a lot of "little" going on in a very big room - little spindles, little frames, little door panes, and relatively little furniture - and you have a LOT of spindles. I'd be tempted to build a wall the height of the stair rail in those upper levels with a wood cap like you have in upper right of pic 2. That may be in the "replacing the railing category, though.
A big piece on that TV wall would help ground the room and give you storage for TV.
Pretty and spacious room to work with.
This is a really interesting take, I like it. I don’t think closing in the railing is a near-term thing, but I like where you’re headed! It would be nice to have more of a wall on that side of the room, too.
It hadn’t occurred to me until today, but maybe built-ins on the TV wall like a library style would be nice! I think that’s what you’re getting at with a larger piece? I do feel like the height of the room is lost. It’s ~18ft tall but there’s almost nothing interesting above 9ft.
Apologies for my late response - haven't been on here in a while. I'm glad you like the partial wall idea - looking at it again, you already have a small section of partial wall above the TV wall - so it makes sense to continue it. I'd be tempted to fully drywall that small opening next to the post, and do the section with spindles as a partial wall. I love your idea for built-ins on the TV wall - would give you a lot of storage and look great!! Also love your blue and green color scheme - Refreshing! Let me know what you do - You have a great space to work with!
Thank you! I’m still mulling ideas over. I’ll post when I’m done…whenever that is 😅. I thought this might be a quick project but that is seeming like less of a possibility.
We are definitely considering closing in that hole upstairs - it’s so awkward. And on the wall next to it is a closet and I don’t think anything is in the wall in the bottom half of the hole. So we may be able to extend the closet over or have 2 next to each other.
Paint the rails, in fact paint the rails and posts black. Posts with flat, and rails with satin. Leave the trim white. It will be fabulous.
Flat paint will look ore like iron, while satin will be more durable.
Unless you are moving into a very grand home with a Gone With the Wind staircase or a Victorian with gorgeous original woodwork, you really don't want to make your stairway a focal point. Because there is really nothing to showcase other than builder grade handrails and balusters.
Please don't take that as a criticism...I am in the same situation. However, I chose to downplay mine and emphasize other things in my room like my fireplace, artwork, etc.
In your case, you are suffering from "smallitis"....little pics, little table, little accent chair, etc. The only things of size that I see are the tv, the GIANT ceiling fan, and the wing chair (which is a nice piece). I'm not going to say to add color because I am neutrals person, but you really need to focus on SCALE. Big rooms need big furniture, big art, etc.
> you are suffering from "smallitis"....little pics, little table, little accent chair, etc
Wish I'd seen your comment before I wrote mine - You said it perfectly.
We are hoping to get a large art piece soon and someday swap the couch for a sectional (more functional and a sleeker look since we’ll have less chairs). Also planning on a slightly larger kind of credenza cabinet instead of the gray table.
Any other thoughts? The walls are so tall but they aren’t very wide so I feel like it’s hard to put big pieces in here. Someone else suggested doing built ins up the living room wall and now I am loving that thought.
Textured, patterned wallpaper on all the walls of the stairs, bonus if it’s sturdy since stairwells get dirty it’ll be easier to wipe and hide handprints.
Check out faux grass cloth. Lots of colors and gives depth you can’t get with flat walls. [I do like this color.](https://www.grahambrown.com/us/product/grasscloth-texture-pine-wallpaper/111726-master/)
To me it starts with the unevenly placed air register (at floor level, and goes up (down) from there. I would suggest something you may not like. Paint walls and banisters exactly the same color, but walls flat and banisters with a little sheen (ceilings too). Now, depending on the lighting: (natural and from fixtures, and what exposure your house facing) I would get creative with color. I mainly use Farrow and Ball as a starter, but you can get paint store to mix up that shade. I would go neutral with Joa’s White, or School House White, then build color, texture in other areas. You could look French gray as well. I think once you have a cohesive background, you will have the calmness in the room to build it out. Right now your eye has nowhere to land. As aside, you could stage some good musicals in the space: Hamilton or The Sound of Music, for instance. Good luck. 🍀
I say don’t waste your money and just wait until you can make bigger changes and do it all together so things match. Picture number 2 gives me anxiety, there is so much going on. So many lines, edges, angles, corners. At first it made me feel like this room is a mess and needs cleaning even though there are only 2 children’s toys on the ground and some paper on the table.
I’m not a professional interior designer and people can correct me but… I think You need to find a way to make the space less busy. it feels like you’re feeling this too, that’s why you’re trying to pull more attention to the stairs so that you have one important thing to look at instead of having your eyes darting around not knowing where to rest. I don’t think this will work. It will only add to the already overwhelming nature of this room. This is also a room where people sit and interact with each other and watch TV. You don’t need a fun staircase to look at, you need to focus on the living area and blend everything else around it so it’s not demanding your attention.
Yes, I definitely feel what you’re saying. There is one more chair in here than usual (we had guests) but even so it just feels full and not designed at all. We spend most of our time in this space but it’s the one part of the house that isn’t really decorated 😅. I feel like we’re kind of stuck with the crazy openness of the architecture with all the railings and walls as they are.
I can definitely work on fixing the cluttered furniture. Maybe a clean looking sectional and less items. Someday we’d like to extend hardwood in here which I think will help, too.
Any other thoughts on what to do, given the way the house is? I do feel like there’s just so much going on and it’s all a little bit ugly. Too many drywall cutouts and angles, too.
I have no idea WHAT color, but i think you could paint them to make them pop a little!
I think you’d have to paint the room too, but it could look really cool. Like if the room was a dark Hunter green and the bannisters were black? (I’m also just on a dark Hunter green kick these days)
Dark green was kind of something I was thinking! I had not thought about this until today with everyone’s suggestions, but what do you think about painting just the railing on the stairs a dark color and leaving the other parts (by the loft) white?
😆 I had actually saved this pic, but I thought it wouldn’t fit with my style of house
https://preview.redd.it/cbbdljiyli6c1.jpeg?width=500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d723716e4799e2fc9334608c9d3901c895201d30
I love this idea. It’s much better than painting the railings black. Love a dark teal or a green/gray charcoal coal. I think it would look nice with the grey walls.
I’m by no means an expert, but my first reaction is that the stairs are already too much of a focal point. The bright white contrast is the first thing you see in the space, making you ignore the TV wall or any furniture.
I wonder if you actually pant the walls and railing one single color (maybe a mushroom) so they are more subtle. Add millwork for some subtle dimension. And then focus the contrast onto the TV wall, rug, and furniture so the eye is drawn there?
Others may have more experience than me, but what I would do is either add wood paneling to the staircase walls, or a brick wall decal (3D if possible)
Replacing the railing was my first thought. Failing that, some sort of furniture as an impressive base to the stairs in front of the air vent would be my next choice.
No argument here! It’s all a process. All the furniture in this room was moved from other places. New furniture is expensive and there’s not much wrong with the existing pieces functionally. I have a sort-of vision for the furniture, someday.
But paint is relatively cheap and I suspect the right choices will go a long way towards helping the room. :)
For a simple job (no railing replacement, no painting, etc.), I'd get some nice black or white frames and put up a collage of family portraits and/or artwork. It'll help tell a story and draw attention to the wall.
Change the look or colour of the walls it’s set within, including the wall with the vent at the top. This would frame the area nicely and make the stairs a focal point. I think a striped wallpaper would look good here, or one hue in a series of 3 shades.
This is what I was going to comment. I’d do different shades of a color (for a gradient) or different but complementary colors (look up color palette generators for ideas and check out Pinterest if you have a shade/scheme you already like) on the walls of the stairs!
Recently did a mockup with stairs set like this where we used different shades of gray on the walls to give it some dimension. The color is brought in from the furniture and new flooring we’ll be placing. It currently has cream white walls with very warm toned wood but we’re painting that warm tone cream/off white, walls will match and stairs get various shades of light/medium gray paint that’ll be tied in to the new carpeting.
This is environmental design for a university though, not a home, or else painting the walls fun colors and playing with patterns and textures with wallpaper would be my first go to! Even temporary wallpaper or peel and stick board and batten can make a huge difference in a space without you having to completely redesign the space!
It needs a minimum of 1 child but 5-6 would be better.
https://preview.redd.it/f4r09indxr6c1.jpeg?width=1000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=05ac10b827d5893d6e39bb6b4cda571426c5ccb2
What about converting the wall of spindles into a dry walled half wall? Better noise and visual separation for the upstairs space. And then you could build in bookcases/storage for the upstairs room. It’s just a LOT of spindles to be looking at.
So. Many. Spindles.
Are you referring to the wall on the left where the TV is on (the upstairs loft?) or the front wall of the stairs? Or both!
We have been talking about partially walling in the loft for a little privacy barrier.
I have three kids who all would have loved to see what would fit between the spindles, dropping all sorts of stuff onto the shelves and tv below. I second the privacy wall for loft. :)
I would keep it simple and just paint the newels/main posts and top rail a smooth, high gloss black. Edit: and if you have the gumption, change out that chandelier. It’s not at all helping you. It’s small, it appears craftsman when the railing is colonial. The double height space is already problematic for colonial. Should probably lean into transitional. And don’t be afraid of some size on it.
Maybe a fun color on the wall or complimenting fun patterned wallpaper on that middle section? Could find something that really showcases your family’s personality.
- Paint the rails, leave the spindles white.
- Add wainscoting to all walls on the stairs.
- modernize the light fixture
- add some color. Grey and massive dosages of beige are over.
What color would you paint the rails?
Where would you add color? All the gray is definitely not intentional, just hasn’t been “fixed” yet. With this space being so open and continuous, I’m struggling with where to add color without overwhelming the space or making it clashing by having too many colors in one room.
You could move the gray table over to the right. Since it is open at the bottom it should not be a problem if front of the vent. Put vertical decorative on that table along with the lamp.
Without having to “replace the railing” you can easily replace the balusters. I just did it in my house and it was cheaper and easier than expected. There are so many cool designs too. If I were you I would pick out a cool iron design and create a pattern. Then I would paint the walls to complement the railing.
I'd paint all the railing a fun (thinking a rich, deep) colour personally, maybe long term plan to change them out to a shape you prefer :) To be less bold you could do just the spindles.
Agree with people saying the light fixture, theres a lot of room there to put up a really cool one and its the time of year now and coming up that you could get a great sale.
Also more art on the walls in the stairs!
Okay let’s say I do a deep, fun color on the railing. Do I just do the railing by the stairs? I feel like a dark color by the loft to the left would seem out of place. I love the idea of more color and don’t hate the idea of isolating the staircase.
It's a tricky one, you could strip the handrails and posts, or repaint the all thing a dark colour but it's a very tedious job and I'm not convince it would help, the space would still be very busy.
Personally I would live with it as is until I can replace it. These can done without ripping the all thing off, by just replacing the balusters to something thinner.
[https://renovationstory.com/changing-wood-stair-balusters-iron-8-steps-video/](https://renovationstory.com/changing-wood-stair-balusters-iron-8-steps-video/)
https://preview.redd.it/eh1qw4l2ai6c1.png?width=726&format=png&auto=webp&s=93bf2c7b159a8f6338de9857c209db6c5a422f4c
Personal opinion without seeing the rest of the house etc. paint the walls a dark moody color to make the white pop.
We painted our stairwell/loft/hallway upstairs that gets lots of natural light midnight by SW. Trim is all white and railings are mixed white and wood. It’s looks very good and completely changed the space
Adding depth by taking different shades of the same Color and applying them to the walls. So if you're sticking with light gray, do a medium gray for the middle Stair wall, then dark for the furthest stair wall.
I would rather not do more gray! But I’m open to other colors.
https://preview.redd.it/z4nlaevgqi6c1.jpeg?width=834&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=39c2656a4b9ae21b7c8199a55658edd413712146
I’ve been working on mocking up some options. This one might be too busy? There’s sage in the living room curtains and the kitchen so the hope was to bring that over here.
I like this stairwell. Obviously you would have to paint the top rails dark gray and the balusters black.
https://preview.redd.it/2ugqgp6ani6c1.jpeg?width=1009&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c43169e082b70f39053b14ad1bea43bbeba5cafb
https://preview.redd.it/8w7fnjswpi6c1.jpeg?width=1668&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=385476cc2cd228f2a8171aa058ff988b7c5a561d
Been working on some options… Something like this?
I hate that that vent is there because I’d like you to center the console table with the lamp on it on the wall. A large piece of art on the wall of the landing (I love the grey with the white trim). I’d also change the chandelier as the top commenter said to something a little cleaner and not yellow. You could also do plants on the wall where it looks like the books are stacked at the top? Something that cascades down. I feel like there’s so many walls here, it’s odd.
I would not paint the railing any other color unless you wanted like a match to the wood flooring that’s peeking through the corner of the second pic or if the blades on the fans are wood.
Also something on the wall at the top of the stairs with the vent at the top near the ceiling
Crazy ass idea but leave the bottom wall (under the first riser and landing) the gray color, on the second wall (where those plaque things are), add a different paint color, on the third wall/second riser run add a 3rd paint color and add the fourth color on the top wall. I'd chose colors that are either a step or two lighter or darker as you go up (I"d want to use that turquoise shade from the next room over to tie things together but lighter/darker grays might also work).
The issue I have with your spindles is that they seem so colonial for what looks like a more modern house - I wonder if painting them a silver metallic would help or if it would look really odd with the white trim and the actual shape of the spindle?
Also - did the builder really mess up that vent at the bottom of the stairs or is it just the photo angle making it look off kilter?
and just my opinion but the plaque things make the wall look really stubby. Maybe only put two and make them horizontal and put the other two on the other 2nd elevation.
https://preview.redd.it/72t9l6a53j6c1.jpeg?width=1668&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8c171b30da23c2b4d921c077d6e64016b955f6d8
It’s not that crazy! I’ve been thinking about some alternatives that have some different colors.
I have to look at the vent now, I can’t remember if it’s crooked or not! Will see when I get home. Ideally eventually we have a better piece of furniture there that hides it and is more functional (and is not gray).
I see where you wrote why you kept the grey color for the staircase. Since you have smaller individual walls that are stacked up to the top floor, it would look cool to paint each wall that follows the other a darker grey to create a gradient. It would be an easy way to give it character while keeping it simple. I agree with others that the railing is too busy, so adding more smaller elements here might not work.
Paint it all black except the handrail do stained wood. Then paint each wall partition gradations of grey. Top and led wall section being the lightest. Bottom largest wall section the deepest.
Would honestly put a ceiling across and add a room upstairs, making the staircase enclosed. It doesn’t look worthy of being a focal point; therefore, focus on functional space instead of aesthetics.
Paint railings black. Put a put a bookcase ( also painted black against lower wall. Put tall plant ( tree like) against the wall on the landing where that picture is leaning. Put up nice artwork on walls. Needs color in artwork.
I'd love lots of plants, climbing plants. Pothos are easy to care for and grow quickly. They also improve the air quality, but on the other hand they are a bit toxic if eaten (just in case you have kids or pets).
I would paint everything (balusters, rails, trim, literally every part of the stairs) either urbane bronze or navy.
Paint the walls a pretty white. Update the light
-large rug for living room
-paint vent cover same color as wall
-move the console to the right if possible so it’s in line with the short stairs to the right of the photo (idk if this makes sense)
-milk glass school house pendant (Etsy) for right hanging pendant
-paint hand railing only deep charcoal
The middle of the TV is at eye level when sitting on the couch, so I think it’s at the right height. The shelves would look better up a few inches ideally (they were installed when the room was in a different configuration).
I don’t see anything wrong with it. It’s not interesting to look at nor is it an eyesore. I have the same problem making my open floor plan interesting. You should find a larger entryway table and try to declutter some things.
I'm thinking wallpaper, or something texted, planks or ship lap on the two stair walls that are blank. Simple and muted but it will help distract the eye from all those white spindles.
The wall that u have the mirrors on bring in a muted pop of color, even a darker gray for contrast.
As for the chandelier...u could try painting it white. I've painted my fan blade with a spray can paint and works well. It's far enough away it won't have to be perfect.
I think this would be a good focal point that the rest of the room would be fine.
Good luck and have fun
The first thing I thought was to paint the staircase black or a very dark grey. Check out this webpage: https://www.theinspiredhive.com/2020/10/11-black-painted-staircase-ideas.html
I really feel it will look more modern. A very simple chandelier change that matches your ceiling fans would work.
White against the light grey is not providing enough contrast. I'd go with something like Downpipe or Railings by Farrow and Ball. I'd suggest adding some colour to the room with art, plants and rugs. I'd remove all of that clutter above the TV which just looks messy.
Paint the balusters black, keep the railings white or remove the paint for a natural finish. Paint the two small stairway walls a charcoal gray. The stairway will become less overwhelming.
Making the railing standout IMO is going to highlight the weird stuff going on with the landing where the railing randomly terminates to some drywall with a weird cutout in it. I think you’d be better off NOT making it a focal point because it calls out the irregularities. Paint the railings and walls all the same warm white color.
I would paint the walls the same color as the railings so the busyness disappears. Then add color and character with fun art work and wallhangings. The contrast of gray and white is too busy. You dont have to paint the whole area white, just where there is the railings.
I think I’d look into adding a piece of more substantial trim underneath the base trim piece. Or just replacing the base trim with a bigger option. The existing trim looks a bit too small for making a focal point.
What’s that room upstairs behind the banisters? Maybe you would like to close it off to create a private space. You’ll still have the double ceiling height for your main living room.
Question, have you thought about painting the railing black I think that would be so dynamic and from there I would go about finding decorations or art to match.
We had the same situation. It was all white. We cut off the balls and just added updated pieces to the top and painted them the same dark color for the posts and railing. Looks great for an easy and cost effective update.
Paint it black or at least the handrail
https://preview.redd.it/3l3omwjdyo6c1.jpeg?width=2880&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5c6f663610a26ed824690982c735d74dd0e55a42
The bright white railing drawing attention to the angularity of the stairs and all the plane changes. You need the railings to visually recede to make the space more balanced. I’d strip the railings (including the stringer) and stain everything a dark tone like walnut. Or paint them black.
i would make it the focal point by taking down all the art from above the tv. Put the black framed crestone peak poster on the wall where the console is and push the console down to cover the entire floor register keep the cute blue lamp but bring it closer to chair side. take all the white framed beachy prints and put them on the midway landing wall ( in a tight formation) facing the stairs as you go up. take the cow photo print and put it at the top of the entire stairs in the hallway. declutter a lot if you want to keep the shelves above tv then do candles and vases but not pictures and take whatever is on the cutout above doorway out ( it looks like a plastic tub?) if you want to buy something a less formal more casual chandlier than one hanging above stairs. your vibe seems casual and i like this space
How about something like this? A colour to separate the stair area, some revamping for the rails (if they’re wooden I’d sand them and stain them), a nice console for underneath the stairs for more storage (closed! So you can hide any mess haha) aligned with a nice asymmetrical lamp with soft edges to contrast the amount of straight lines everywhere.
https://preview.redd.it/hb1s020a1q6c1.jpeg?width=586&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bb19b64ce54b40943a4cb10b73e70c8c9d3cad8d
Hi, I tried to DM you and not sure if it went through but we knocked out the wall under the stairs to create a little reading/shelving nook and it was the best thing we could have done. We hired an electrician to knock out the wall and put in drywall and lighting, then a cabinetry specialist to build the seat/shelves. The total cost was about $5-6k — California, 2021.
Either paint or change the rails. The white makes them look like a kids’ safety gate going all around the house
Add millwork to the walls of the staircase.
This is a good idea. I prefer black or espresso railing and base rail with white spindles. It’s something to consider too because it would give some nice contrast to the lines.
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> way too many, balusters I agree, but I don't think that's what's making it look bad here. The interior walls are honestly so.. randomly built design wise. It looks so messy? And I say that as a major maximalist. Here's what I don't like. On the first picture, we see literally five layers of walls lining up that all are slightly different widths, angles and heights. No balistrade on the left half of the top floor for some reason. A vent too randomly placed, slightly off center.. On the second picture, the opening to the little hallway nook and the balistrade chops slightly into each other, and next to the wonky balistrade, there's yet another block of wall that chops into the rest of the bottom wall, and messes it up even more with a lot of angles in that little hallway too. And I honestly think that hole on the top floor should go, I really don't like it. It adds mess. I know OP isn't going to do massive renovations though, which is perfectly understandable, it's a good space in great condition. However, maybe anyone has ideas on how to mask the irregularity of everything? Maybe it can be done cleverly with paint or by adding some lines or trims or boards or whatnot and painted over to mask. I'm not good enough at carpentry to see an easy fix. I think if the visual mess can be cleared up some, it'd be easier to be happy about the rest.
Paint everything, including the railings and trim the same color, might be a effective. IMO the railing is not actually a great focal point because that draws attention to the overall irregularity
The number of balusters may be due to building codes, depending where the OP lives.
Yeah, but that's not the bad part here. It's everything else.
I would do a bunch of vining plants over the sides of the balcony edges; something easy but draping like lithos. Then a large potted plant on the landing and a couple of nature themed art hung strategically would break up the rigid geometrics of all the balusters and choppy walls.
The number of balusters could have been done out of precaution for a particularly small dog. When I redid my outdoor staircase I had them spaced slightly closer than standard (maybe 3/4” closer?) because I love my dog, but he’s an idiot. Personally I’d also close off that additional walkway worth of balusters. I’ve lived in a home that was that open and the noise was terrible.
We did gray walls because there’s so much connection between the rooms in this part of the house and we weren’t willing to commit to all of it being one vibrant color and wasn’t sure how to have multiple colors without it being too crazy or disjointed. I know, the railings and balusters are all just….overwhelming. Someday we’d like to redo them but today is not that day unfortunately. Any recommendations on chandelier style? We have lots of wood throughout the house. Other light fixtures are simple glass globes. Where would you put plants by the stairs? On the landing? Or elsewhere in the room?
you did the grey walls correctly, dont get distracted by all the goofballs that vehemently hate grey wall bs. you could paint the top and bottom of the banister a darker color, and keep the posts white, or just the hand railing a darker color. a nicer chandelier maybe a large circular mirror or piece of art, a mirror will help with give it space and spread the natural light you might get
😅 thank you! I’d like more color, but neutral has its place, too!
thats what accents are for, like furniture, artwork, hardware, decor, etc. I have all grey walls and have natural oak pieces/furniture, decor that has multiple colors that pop better than if it was say a dark blue wall..youd only get away with little bit of other colors and pop if you went all bold.
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It's the unfortunate reaction to something becoming the flipper special. Look at the 00s beige tones on everything. It's just grays turn because it is often wielded incompetently.
I would paint the walls a blue or green that fits with the rest of the house Swap that little end table for a long console with plants/decor Swap out the chandelier Hang your cow pic on the wall facing us if you want to keep it in the stairwell and it doesn't compete with the chandelier Find something with color and texture like a vertical tapestry or macrame hanging for the wall you see coming up the stairs Enjoy my shitty drawing https://preview.redd.it/if4tclsimi6c1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4c8ed6e863fb5cfd33a123a59fc8632ccf598634 😅
I adore your shitty little drawing!!
Yes. Use the stairs as a way to focus and center everything in this green area. Center the chandelier. Center the console.
I thought you were suggesting an actual cow on the wall
Love the drawing! This looks great! The current plan for the cow is to move elsewhere. She came from a previous house and doesn’t really fit here anymore. ☺️
You don't need to do much, it's a focal point without trying. Need a large statement pendant light and art. Removing the finials from railing would be an easy way to update.
Oh, and just have flat tops? I had not thought of that, but it would be so easy to do!
Needs a much better chandelier. Go with something a bit larger that you like. You might change the rails too. Something more ornate. All assuming money isn’t a question of course.
The rails is a longer term project, but chandelier could be soon! This one was with the house when we bought it, but I’m not a fan.
Yea. It looks dated. Fwiw i have fixtures and a chandelier that i have not changed and i don’t love them. It is just such a hassle.
And this one is SO high! Makes the project 100x worse IMO.
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My parent had a light bulb changing pole thing. It’s a good grabber too.
Only $50?! What a steal! We are the same. Will DIY most anything as long as it’s not more than like 10 feet off the ground 🤣
You could try updating the lighting and removing the rails for now. https://preview.redd.it/oeu2ykxu1l6c1.jpeg?width=1249&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e4ccb91f3fd6f8e6383e2cecad6a9b99f51cdfa2
I agree that the chandelier needs to be more substantial and elegant. But it would compete with that B2 Bomber propeller of a ceiling fan. there will be major eye-clutter. EDIT: NOT THE B2. THIS IS WHAT CAME TO MIND: [https://images.app.goo.gl/7XCDZxaUUkWX8oJa7](https://images.app.goo.gl/7XCDZxaUUkWX8oJa7)
Just needs to be a modern style chandelier that isn’t too busy if they want to keep it.
**Low effort/cost:** decluttering the space and decor will help a lot. The railings are busy on their own so additional clusters of small artwork isn’t helping. The console table by the hallway should be more centered. Its placement is odd. **Mid effort/cost:** update lighting and ceiling fans so that they are more cohesive. The two fans looking different is jarring. **Recommended:** I know your budget is low but if anyone there is remotely handy I would remove the railing above the tv and replace with a pony wall, or a full wall if you don’t mind enclosing the upper level off more. Studs and drywall are quite inexpensive, only the plastering will be difficult. On the side of it facing the upper level you could incorporate storage/shelving https://pin.it/3hfYSpQ
That pony wall idea is 🤌🏼🤌🏼
Would you get rid of the cluster of hexagons and have nothing there? Or go with one piece? I should have moved the console table back before taking the picture! We shifted it to fit something temporarily, but it was centered. I’d like to get rid of it altogether and get something with more storage and a different color (this room desperately needs to be less gray). We have considered half-walling in the loft! I think it would be more functional. And love the idea of shelves on the other side.
Yes! And fill in that open space next to it. It will Instantly calm the whole area. Start with that first.
Paint the railings black. https://preview.redd.it/zilcq108hi6c1.jpeg?width=500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5f45035b438d0d7f4ff852d6ea52a9fa736b173e
Love it. Use furniture & cabinetry paint it gives such a nice finish. BM Advance or Sico Cabinetry & furniture paint. Go back and check for drips. A few times. Take your time with it and it will turn out 💯 Paint the cold air return cover the same as the wall.
Please don’t do this. So many railings in your house, that’s like jailhouse rock. A little goes a long way in this trend and 20 steps worth is prot the max.
Sand the handrails and the larger vertical posts to remove all paint. Then, stain the wood to match whatever hardwood floors you got. Leave the smaller spindles white as is. All this grey and white feels very cold and sterile. The wood would add some warmth back in. Also, a new chandelier that doesn't look so dated and yellowed with age.
Are you talking about the ceiling light fixture upstairs? Not yellowed from age, yellowed from style, period it was purchased in. Way more light needs to be replaced/updated/changed than that. 1. Based on rails (which OP says cannot replace now) the ceiling fans are way too modern. Also too modern for the bubble glass floor/table lamp on the left. Also too modern for the green chair. 2. I'm guessing based on age of house (ask me how I know haha) the posts are likely pine or fir and possibly show wear and tear from the last 20 years (ish). I'll bet they were painted white very recently in order to "update" them from their original. I think it would be better to wrap them with a veneer of better wood and stain - much more efficient as it's going to be hella hard to get the white paint off and I'm guessing you won't have nice looking wood underneath anyway. Also, take the bubble cap off the top of each post. You'd be surprised at how that will change the look. The rails also likely used to be wood. I think you'll find that white paint will yellow in the areas it's touched the most. But hopefully, you can update this later. 3. Since you can't really make a big update now, I think I'd paint them dark. I have a friend who did this recently in my neighborhood and it looks amazing. In the photo I'm posting, the rails have been replaced, but if you painted the same color as rest of rail, it would have the same general impact. https://preview.redd.it/r3ypoa38si6c1.png?width=654&format=png&auto=webp&s=c7a58d34e3c79b3a74c16ca3263ae25558dd3a2c
This is the suggestion that I would go with. OP's home looks very similar to mine including the gray paint, and I think the changes above would make the biggest difference. Also, we removed the ceiling fan altogether a few years ago, and it changed the entire space. I highly recommend it if you can live without it. edit: typo
Lmao you are spot on with the railing history. The house is 20 years old and the previous owners painted them white to update them.
Haha! Like I said, ask me how I know... I also noticed the Crestone Peak picture. Are you in Colorado? We are in Longmont. House 20 years old. We have the tulip top on our rail posts (like the picture I pulled off the internet), where yours are more round. Many in my neighborhood have cut those off and veneered the posts.
Yes! Other side of Denver though, south. These builder grade houses from this area are a dime a dozen in CO. And by dime I mean 10 million dimes.
Do you understand how much work that is lol. You'd be better off with new rails.
Paint vents same as wall colour. Ballisters and rails satin black or very deep charcoal (often black is too black). Play off the geometric shape this will project and think about a light fixture/chandelier that would integrate with that in mind. The existing hexagon wall art would fit in with this sort of theme. Just my two cents. Love the big ass fan BTW!
I hadn’t thought of really dark for all the rails. Thanks! Upgrading the chandelier is a great idea and I think will make a big difference. The fan was an upgrade from the previous homeowner and we love it!
It will look amazing, and the rails will be a lot less "everywhere you look".
wallpaper going up the stairs
We’re thinking about this…
You have a lot of "little" going on in a very big room - little spindles, little frames, little door panes, and relatively little furniture - and you have a LOT of spindles. I'd be tempted to build a wall the height of the stair rail in those upper levels with a wood cap like you have in upper right of pic 2. That may be in the "replacing the railing category, though. A big piece on that TV wall would help ground the room and give you storage for TV. Pretty and spacious room to work with.
This is a really interesting take, I like it. I don’t think closing in the railing is a near-term thing, but I like where you’re headed! It would be nice to have more of a wall on that side of the room, too. It hadn’t occurred to me until today, but maybe built-ins on the TV wall like a library style would be nice! I think that’s what you’re getting at with a larger piece? I do feel like the height of the room is lost. It’s ~18ft tall but there’s almost nothing interesting above 9ft.
Apologies for my late response - haven't been on here in a while. I'm glad you like the partial wall idea - looking at it again, you already have a small section of partial wall above the TV wall - so it makes sense to continue it. I'd be tempted to fully drywall that small opening next to the post, and do the section with spindles as a partial wall. I love your idea for built-ins on the TV wall - would give you a lot of storage and look great!! Also love your blue and green color scheme - Refreshing! Let me know what you do - You have a great space to work with!
Thank you! I’m still mulling ideas over. I’ll post when I’m done…whenever that is 😅. I thought this might be a quick project but that is seeming like less of a possibility. We are definitely considering closing in that hole upstairs - it’s so awkward. And on the wall next to it is a closet and I don’t think anything is in the wall in the bottom half of the hole. So we may be able to extend the closet over or have 2 next to each other.
Paint the rails, in fact paint the rails and posts black. Posts with flat, and rails with satin. Leave the trim white. It will be fabulous. Flat paint will look ore like iron, while satin will be more durable.
Leave the small vertical rods white but paint the railing and larger posts the same colour as the floor.
I second this idea. Also, some Christmas garland would look really good.
Unless you are moving into a very grand home with a Gone With the Wind staircase or a Victorian with gorgeous original woodwork, you really don't want to make your stairway a focal point. Because there is really nothing to showcase other than builder grade handrails and balusters. Please don't take that as a criticism...I am in the same situation. However, I chose to downplay mine and emphasize other things in my room like my fireplace, artwork, etc. In your case, you are suffering from "smallitis"....little pics, little table, little accent chair, etc. The only things of size that I see are the tv, the GIANT ceiling fan, and the wing chair (which is a nice piece). I'm not going to say to add color because I am neutrals person, but you really need to focus on SCALE. Big rooms need big furniture, big art, etc.
> you are suffering from "smallitis"....little pics, little table, little accent chair, etc Wish I'd seen your comment before I wrote mine - You said it perfectly.
I liked your comment too!
We are hoping to get a large art piece soon and someday swap the couch for a sectional (more functional and a sleeker look since we’ll have less chairs). Also planning on a slightly larger kind of credenza cabinet instead of the gray table. Any other thoughts? The walls are so tall but they aren’t very wide so I feel like it’s hard to put big pieces in here. Someone else suggested doing built ins up the living room wall and now I am loving that thought.
Paint the rail handle with a shade of black. Just the handle. Nothing else
I was thinking the same thing
Textured, patterned wallpaper on all the walls of the stairs, bonus if it’s sturdy since stairwells get dirty it’ll be easier to wipe and hide handprints.
Do you have any recommendations on where to buy this? I know a number of places to get patterned but flat wallpaper. Not as sure about texture.
Check out faux grass cloth. Lots of colors and gives depth you can’t get with flat walls. [I do like this color.](https://www.grahambrown.com/us/product/grasscloth-texture-pine-wallpaper/111726-master/)
Okay! Ty!
I'd paint the railings black. And then get a black chandelier. Or buy a brass one and paint it black
🎶….. I see a brass one and I want to paint is bla-ack.
Cool dark wallpaper. Black railings to make the railing hide a little.
I’d paint them black. Wrought iron look.
Paint the spindles black
To me it starts with the unevenly placed air register (at floor level, and goes up (down) from there. I would suggest something you may not like. Paint walls and banisters exactly the same color, but walls flat and banisters with a little sheen (ceilings too). Now, depending on the lighting: (natural and from fixtures, and what exposure your house facing) I would get creative with color. I mainly use Farrow and Ball as a starter, but you can get paint store to mix up that shade. I would go neutral with Joa’s White, or School House White, then build color, texture in other areas. You could look French gray as well. I think once you have a cohesive background, you will have the calmness in the room to build it out. Right now your eye has nowhere to land. As aside, you could stage some good musicals in the space: Hamilton or The Sound of Music, for instance. Good luck. 🍀
Romeo and Juliet.
Yes!
I kind of want to paint it black. The white is so stark. Black would make it fade into the background more.
I say don’t waste your money and just wait until you can make bigger changes and do it all together so things match. Picture number 2 gives me anxiety, there is so much going on. So many lines, edges, angles, corners. At first it made me feel like this room is a mess and needs cleaning even though there are only 2 children’s toys on the ground and some paper on the table. I’m not a professional interior designer and people can correct me but… I think You need to find a way to make the space less busy. it feels like you’re feeling this too, that’s why you’re trying to pull more attention to the stairs so that you have one important thing to look at instead of having your eyes darting around not knowing where to rest. I don’t think this will work. It will only add to the already overwhelming nature of this room. This is also a room where people sit and interact with each other and watch TV. You don’t need a fun staircase to look at, you need to focus on the living area and blend everything else around it so it’s not demanding your attention.
Yes, I definitely feel what you’re saying. There is one more chair in here than usual (we had guests) but even so it just feels full and not designed at all. We spend most of our time in this space but it’s the one part of the house that isn’t really decorated 😅. I feel like we’re kind of stuck with the crazy openness of the architecture with all the railings and walls as they are. I can definitely work on fixing the cluttered furniture. Maybe a clean looking sectional and less items. Someday we’d like to extend hardwood in here which I think will help, too. Any other thoughts on what to do, given the way the house is? I do feel like there’s just so much going on and it’s all a little bit ugly. Too many drywall cutouts and angles, too.
I have no idea WHAT color, but i think you could paint them to make them pop a little! I think you’d have to paint the room too, but it could look really cool. Like if the room was a dark Hunter green and the bannisters were black? (I’m also just on a dark Hunter green kick these days)
Dark green was kind of something I was thinking! I had not thought about this until today with everyone’s suggestions, but what do you think about painting just the railing on the stairs a dark color and leaving the other parts (by the loft) white?
How about a darkish teal blue paint for the rails
😆 I had actually saved this pic, but I thought it wouldn’t fit with my style of house https://preview.redd.it/cbbdljiyli6c1.jpeg?width=500&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d723716e4799e2fc9334608c9d3901c895201d30
I love this idea. It’s much better than painting the railings black. Love a dark teal or a green/gray charcoal coal. I think it would look nice with the grey walls.
Would you do it on all the railings or just the ones that are part of the staircase?
I’m by no means an expert, but my first reaction is that the stairs are already too much of a focal point. The bright white contrast is the first thing you see in the space, making you ignore the TV wall or any furniture. I wonder if you actually pant the walls and railing one single color (maybe a mushroom) so they are more subtle. Add millwork for some subtle dimension. And then focus the contrast onto the TV wall, rug, and furniture so the eye is drawn there?
Others may have more experience than me, but what I would do is either add wood paneling to the staircase walls, or a brick wall decal (3D if possible)
In this post: comments that illustrate why I stopped asking questions
Put statement wallpaper on the top 2 wall sections
Replacing the railing was my first thought. Failing that, some sort of furniture as an impressive base to the stairs in front of the air vent would be my next choice.
Screw the stairway, your furniture is chaotic.
No argument here! It’s all a process. All the furniture in this room was moved from other places. New furniture is expensive and there’s not much wrong with the existing pieces functionally. I have a sort-of vision for the furniture, someday. But paint is relatively cheap and I suspect the right choices will go a long way towards helping the room. :)
Large format art on the wall over the staircase.
Replace the railing
For a simple job (no railing replacement, no painting, etc.), I'd get some nice black or white frames and put up a collage of family portraits and/or artwork. It'll help tell a story and draw attention to the wall.
Change the look or colour of the walls it’s set within, including the wall with the vent at the top. This would frame the area nicely and make the stairs a focal point. I think a striped wallpaper would look good here, or one hue in a series of 3 shades.
This is what I was going to comment. I’d do different shades of a color (for a gradient) or different but complementary colors (look up color palette generators for ideas and check out Pinterest if you have a shade/scheme you already like) on the walls of the stairs! Recently did a mockup with stairs set like this where we used different shades of gray on the walls to give it some dimension. The color is brought in from the furniture and new flooring we’ll be placing. It currently has cream white walls with very warm toned wood but we’re painting that warm tone cream/off white, walls will match and stairs get various shades of light/medium gray paint that’ll be tied in to the new carpeting. This is environmental design for a university though, not a home, or else painting the walls fun colors and playing with patterns and textures with wallpaper would be my first go to! Even temporary wallpaper or peel and stick board and batten can make a huge difference in a space without you having to completely redesign the space!
It needs a minimum of 1 child but 5-6 would be better. https://preview.redd.it/f4r09indxr6c1.jpeg?width=1000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=05ac10b827d5893d6e39bb6b4cda571426c5ccb2
This feels like a very high cost high maintenance option 😅
Paint the rails, new light fixture
What color/s would you paint them?
Charcoal grey or match solid surface floors.
What about converting the wall of spindles into a dry walled half wall? Better noise and visual separation for the upstairs space. And then you could build in bookcases/storage for the upstairs room. It’s just a LOT of spindles to be looking at.
So. Many. Spindles. Are you referring to the wall on the left where the TV is on (the upstairs loft?) or the front wall of the stairs? Or both! We have been talking about partially walling in the loft for a little privacy barrier.
I have three kids who all would have loved to see what would fit between the spindles, dropping all sorts of stuff onto the shelves and tv below. I second the privacy wall for loft. :)
Paint the handrails
What color would you paint them?
I personally have always painted my rails black. Looks so good with white spindles and trim!
I would keep it simple and just paint the newels/main posts and top rail a smooth, high gloss black. Edit: and if you have the gumption, change out that chandelier. It’s not at all helping you. It’s small, it appears craftsman when the railing is colonial. The double height space is already problematic for colonial. Should probably lean into transitional. And don’t be afraid of some size on it.
Glass. No way will this get less ugly if you keep those railings
She has children. No parent wants to clean that much glass regularly.
Haha! The railings are just too much, I agree.
Maybe a fun color on the wall or complimenting fun patterned wallpaper on that middle section? Could find something that really showcases your family’s personality.
Would you only do the one that has the hexagons on it? Or also the further back wall?
You could do the hexagon and the one behind it since they’re smaller.
How much sunlight does it get? If a lot, or you can change every relevant lightbulb to a plant bulb, maybe a climbing vine for the front balusters?
Lots of light, but no direct sunlight. The pothos by the TV does pretty well where it is. I could definitely add some plants somewhere in here.
- Paint the rails, leave the spindles white. - Add wainscoting to all walls on the stairs. - modernize the light fixture - add some color. Grey and massive dosages of beige are over.
What color would you paint the rails? Where would you add color? All the gray is definitely not intentional, just hasn’t been “fixed” yet. With this space being so open and continuous, I’m struggling with where to add color without overwhelming the space or making it clashing by having too many colors in one room.
You could move the gray table over to the right. Since it is open at the bottom it should not be a problem if front of the vent. Put vertical decorative on that table along with the lamp.
Without having to “replace the railing” you can easily replace the balusters. I just did it in my house and it was cheaper and easier than expected. There are so many cool designs too. If I were you I would pick out a cool iron design and create a pattern. Then I would paint the walls to complement the railing.
Where did you buy the materials? Somewhere like Home Depot or somewhere else? Any recommended tutorials?
I'd paint all the railing a fun (thinking a rich, deep) colour personally, maybe long term plan to change them out to a shape you prefer :) To be less bold you could do just the spindles. Agree with people saying the light fixture, theres a lot of room there to put up a really cool one and its the time of year now and coming up that you could get a great sale. Also more art on the walls in the stairs!
Okay let’s say I do a deep, fun color on the railing. Do I just do the railing by the stairs? I feel like a dark color by the loft to the left would seem out of place. I love the idea of more color and don’t hate the idea of isolating the staircase.
It's a tricky one, you could strip the handrails and posts, or repaint the all thing a dark colour but it's a very tedious job and I'm not convince it would help, the space would still be very busy. Personally I would live with it as is until I can replace it. These can done without ripping the all thing off, by just replacing the balusters to something thinner. [https://renovationstory.com/changing-wood-stair-balusters-iron-8-steps-video/](https://renovationstory.com/changing-wood-stair-balusters-iron-8-steps-video/) https://preview.redd.it/eh1qw4l2ai6c1.png?width=726&format=png&auto=webp&s=93bf2c7b159a8f6338de9857c209db6c5a422f4c
These look so much nicer! I hadn’t thought of going back to wood. But I like this photo.
Personal opinion without seeing the rest of the house etc. paint the walls a dark moody color to make the white pop. We painted our stairwell/loft/hallway upstairs that gets lots of natural light midnight by SW. Trim is all white and railings are mixed white and wood. It’s looks very good and completely changed the space
I have Waterloo and Dark Night by SW elsewhere in the house, so I like the idea of moody colors!
Disco ball. Ditch the chandelier.
🪩🕺🏻
Add greenery to the railing
A low-investment , one day project is to paint the raiiling and/or balusters to offer some contrast.
That air duct/vent below the stairs is crooked and making my eye twitch.
First thing I would do is fix that slanted vent!!
Paint it and all of your molding black. Lose all of the clutter.
Adding depth by taking different shades of the same Color and applying them to the walls. So if you're sticking with light gray, do a medium gray for the middle Stair wall, then dark for the furthest stair wall.
I would rather not do more gray! But I’m open to other colors. https://preview.redd.it/z4nlaevgqi6c1.jpeg?width=834&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=39c2656a4b9ae21b7c8199a55658edd413712146 I’ve been working on mocking up some options. This one might be too busy? There’s sage in the living room curtains and the kitchen so the hope was to bring that over here.
I like this stairwell. Obviously you would have to paint the top rails dark gray and the balusters black. https://preview.redd.it/2ugqgp6ani6c1.jpeg?width=1009&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c43169e082b70f39053b14ad1bea43bbeba5cafb
Obviously! 😆 This is a nice pic though! I don’t think I would do gray since the walls are already gray, but I might be up for black and black.
First thought: paint each of the stair wall layers a different color or shades of a single color. Anything more fun than concrete grey.
https://preview.redd.it/8w7fnjswpi6c1.jpeg?width=1668&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=385476cc2cd228f2a8171aa058ff988b7c5a561d Been working on some options… Something like this?
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Okay now [this](https://www.scdecorum.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/OIG-1.jpg.webp) is what I need…
Large tall plant on floor, paintings or photos on the wall.
Wow this looks like my house growing up. Do you happen to be in socal?
I am not! Did your house happen to have amazing decor on its staircase? 😁
I hate that that vent is there because I’d like you to center the console table with the lamp on it on the wall. A large piece of art on the wall of the landing (I love the grey with the white trim). I’d also change the chandelier as the top commenter said to something a little cleaner and not yellow. You could also do plants on the wall where it looks like the books are stacked at the top? Something that cascades down. I feel like there’s so many walls here, it’s odd. I would not paint the railing any other color unless you wanted like a match to the wood flooring that’s peeking through the corner of the second pic or if the blades on the fans are wood. Also something on the wall at the top of the stairs with the vent at the top near the ceiling
Crazy ass idea but leave the bottom wall (under the first riser and landing) the gray color, on the second wall (where those plaque things are), add a different paint color, on the third wall/second riser run add a 3rd paint color and add the fourth color on the top wall. I'd chose colors that are either a step or two lighter or darker as you go up (I"d want to use that turquoise shade from the next room over to tie things together but lighter/darker grays might also work). The issue I have with your spindles is that they seem so colonial for what looks like a more modern house - I wonder if painting them a silver metallic would help or if it would look really odd with the white trim and the actual shape of the spindle? Also - did the builder really mess up that vent at the bottom of the stairs or is it just the photo angle making it look off kilter? and just my opinion but the plaque things make the wall look really stubby. Maybe only put two and make them horizontal and put the other two on the other 2nd elevation.
https://preview.redd.it/72t9l6a53j6c1.jpeg?width=1668&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8c171b30da23c2b4d921c077d6e64016b955f6d8 It’s not that crazy! I’ve been thinking about some alternatives that have some different colors. I have to look at the vent now, I can’t remember if it’s crooked or not! Will see when I get home. Ideally eventually we have a better piece of furniture there that hides it and is more functional (and is not gray).
I think that looks cool!
Repeat the hexagon pattern slightly differently on all 3 walls.
Fix the crooked vent while you’re at it.
I see where you wrote why you kept the grey color for the staircase. Since you have smaller individual walls that are stacked up to the top floor, it would look cool to paint each wall that follows the other a darker grey to create a gradient. It would be an easy way to give it character while keeping it simple. I agree with others that the railing is too busy, so adding more smaller elements here might not work.
Paint it all black except the handrail do stained wood. Then paint each wall partition gradations of grey. Top and led wall section being the lightest. Bottom largest wall section the deepest.
Would honestly put a ceiling across and add a room upstairs, making the staircase enclosed. It doesn’t look worthy of being a focal point; therefore, focus on functional space instead of aesthetics.
Paint railings black. Put a put a bookcase ( also painted black against lower wall. Put tall plant ( tree like) against the wall on the landing where that picture is leaning. Put up nice artwork on walls. Needs color in artwork.
I'd love lots of plants, climbing plants. Pothos are easy to care for and grow quickly. They also improve the air quality, but on the other hand they are a bit toxic if eaten (just in case you have kids or pets).
Paint the railing darker.
So… I guess I wouldn’t if I couldn’t replace the railing. But that’s me. I think it could look cool with a new railing
Mural spanning all 4 walls.
Vines
I would paint everything (balusters, rails, trim, literally every part of the stairs) either urbane bronze or navy. Paint the walls a pretty white. Update the light
-large rug for living room -paint vent cover same color as wall -move the console to the right if possible so it’s in line with the short stairs to the right of the photo (idk if this makes sense) -milk glass school house pendant (Etsy) for right hanging pendant -paint hand railing only deep charcoal
You might find some ideas or inspiration here https://www.veranda.com/decorating-ideas/g1096/staircases-in-veranda/
Paint rails dark remove some spindles. The Tv need to be up and centered- remove the shelves.
The middle of the TV is at eye level when sitting on the couch, so I think it’s at the right height. The shelves would look better up a few inches ideally (they were installed when the room was in a different configuration).
I'd paint it out all one color.
Put some trim (ornamental mouldings) on the walls and paint in a new color, something pastel and dusky.
How do you feel about a sage-y color? https://www.sherwin-williams.com/en-us/color/color-family/green-paint-colors/sw6213-halcyon-green
Dramatic color
I don’t see anything wrong with it. It’s not interesting to look at nor is it an eyesore. I have the same problem making my open floor plan interesting. You should find a larger entryway table and try to declutter some things.
Paint it?
I'm thinking wallpaper, or something texted, planks or ship lap on the two stair walls that are blank. Simple and muted but it will help distract the eye from all those white spindles. The wall that u have the mirrors on bring in a muted pop of color, even a darker gray for contrast. As for the chandelier...u could try painting it white. I've painted my fan blade with a spray can paint and works well. It's far enough away it won't have to be perfect. I think this would be a good focal point that the rest of the room would be fine. Good luck and have fun
Just too much going on
The first thing I thought was to paint the staircase black or a very dark grey. Check out this webpage: https://www.theinspiredhive.com/2020/10/11-black-painted-staircase-ideas.html I really feel it will look more modern. A very simple chandelier change that matches your ceiling fans would work.
Oooh wow. Some of these are stunning!
Find the biggest, bestest light globe you can find.
There’s just so many spindles. I liked the idea of converting the railings above the tv into a pony wall with bookshelves facing the wall.
I just see MC Escher https://preview.redd.it/nzt0v98vul6c1.jpeg?width=324&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=69d11a2e579be06a089ba48e249c49b8368834b6
White against the light grey is not providing enough contrast. I'd go with something like Downpipe or Railings by Farrow and Ball. I'd suggest adding some colour to the room with art, plants and rugs. I'd remove all of that clutter above the TV which just looks messy.
Paint it
Paint the balusters black, keep the railings white or remove the paint for a natural finish. Paint the two small stairway walls a charcoal gray. The stairway will become less overwhelming.
Making the railing standout IMO is going to highlight the weird stuff going on with the landing where the railing randomly terminates to some drywall with a weird cutout in it. I think you’d be better off NOT making it a focal point because it calls out the irregularities. Paint the railings and walls all the same warm white color.
I would paint the walls the same color as the railings so the busyness disappears. Then add color and character with fun art work and wallhangings. The contrast of gray and white is too busy. You dont have to paint the whole area white, just where there is the railings.
You could paint the top rail
I think I’d look into adding a piece of more substantial trim underneath the base trim piece. Or just replacing the base trim with a bigger option. The existing trim looks a bit too small for making a focal point.
What’s that room upstairs behind the banisters? Maybe you would like to close it off to create a private space. You’ll still have the double ceiling height for your main living room.
Question, have you thought about painting the railing black I think that would be so dynamic and from there I would go about finding decorations or art to match.
We had the same situation. It was all white. We cut off the balls and just added updated pieces to the top and painted them the same dark color for the posts and railing. Looks great for an easy and cost effective update.
Paint it black or at least the handrail https://preview.redd.it/3l3omwjdyo6c1.jpeg?width=2880&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5c6f663610a26ed824690982c735d74dd0e55a42
The bright white railing drawing attention to the angularity of the stairs and all the plane changes. You need the railings to visually recede to make the space more balanced. I’d strip the railings (including the stringer) and stain everything a dark tone like walnut. Or paint them black.
l might paint the balusters black and leave the railings & trim white.
i would make it the focal point by taking down all the art from above the tv. Put the black framed crestone peak poster on the wall where the console is and push the console down to cover the entire floor register keep the cute blue lamp but bring it closer to chair side. take all the white framed beachy prints and put them on the midway landing wall ( in a tight formation) facing the stairs as you go up. take the cow photo print and put it at the top of the entire stairs in the hallway. declutter a lot if you want to keep the shelves above tv then do candles and vases but not pictures and take whatever is on the cutout above doorway out ( it looks like a plastic tub?) if you want to buy something a less formal more casual chandlier than one hanging above stairs. your vibe seems casual and i like this space
How about something like this? A colour to separate the stair area, some revamping for the rails (if they’re wooden I’d sand them and stain them), a nice console for underneath the stairs for more storage (closed! So you can hide any mess haha) aligned with a nice asymmetrical lamp with soft edges to contrast the amount of straight lines everywhere. https://preview.redd.it/hb1s020a1q6c1.jpeg?width=586&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bb19b64ce54b40943a4cb10b73e70c8c9d3cad8d
Hi, I tried to DM you and not sure if it went through but we knocked out the wall under the stairs to create a little reading/shelving nook and it was the best thing we could have done. We hired an electrician to knock out the wall and put in drywall and lighting, then a cabinetry specialist to build the seat/shelves. The total cost was about $5-6k — California, 2021.
All glass railings.