If it's not too late and you haven't already done so, I suggest posting this on the "Discussions" side of Kitchens. This is the "Gallery" side that's more for finished kitchens and the like. The Discussions side of Kitchens is for on-topic discussions concerning kitchen remodels. You will most likely get many more responses over there. Oh, and btw...you're probably not receiving emails of follow-up postings, even though you checked the box requesting them. This is b/c you don't have the email option turned on in your profile. See the "Read Me" thread for more information. Scroll down to the post with the subject "Getting Emails Sent To You...3-step Process". Good luck! Here is a link that might be useful: Read Me If You're New To GW Kitchens!

I know what you mean about the cinder block. That certainly will work but the painter really needs someone standing at the ladder base as a precaution. Also, depending on the stairway height and width, obtaining the necessary angle for a ladder may not be possible. Check your local rental center. Small scaffoldings with adjustable legs are made for working on stairs. You'll have a larger working area. The rental rates generally aren't unreasonable - maybe $100 per week. Hope that give some encouragement.

In order to make an informed decision, I would have a professional take a look, so you know what you would be getting into structurally and cost wise. An option could be changing dining room side only, but have to consider symmetry, especially with arch going into living room. Perhaps it wouldn’t necessarily have to be entire wall as well. No matter what you decide (leave or change): - I would highly recommend painting the hall, staircase and living room the same color as dining room. - Lighten the stairs (see below) and change runner to something lighter/more interesting - A gallery wall could detract from the staircase’s narrowness, as the eye will be drawn to wall - Add a great ceiling light in front entrance If it were me, I’d first make these updates and then you can always reconsider. You may be happy with how the stairs feel, as well as the whole space in general; lighter, fresh and more cohesive

Presuming you have an excellent doormat outisde the door, how about putting a large area rug you like to be underfoot right as guests walk in, a rug that would be positioned where you currently show that light gray rug as people walk in, but much much larger. Create the space so that someone walking in has immediately to the left a neat tidy place to get rid of a wet jacket, umbrella or hat. And it’s a comfortable space for two people to stand, turn around, with the rug underfoot. Then think about adding a different round rug between the 2 closet doors in the short space of hallway leading to the kitchen. Take away that console table with the plant. Hang art on the walls instead or a mirror with a thin floating shelf. Let’s say you picked a round bright colored rug for the space closer to the kitchen. Would a square or rectangular entry rug like these work for you? nothing this elaborate, and no upper cabinets, but how about a fraction of this on the left wall as someone walks in?