"I would really like to put a darker tread down...I would really like to put a darker tread down..." Are you talking about actually replacing the current treads? That is what it sounds like from what you wrote. Have to say that would be easier said than done. We have one tread that was broken on the stairs to our basement (didn't know it until we replaced carpeting). I recently asked our go-to-for-renovation-projects guy about taking up the carpet and replacing that one tread. Apparently stairs are built with a part that goes into the wall, so you can't just pull up the tread without getting inside the wall (at least that is the case in our 1960 house). Your house looks fairly new and the wood looks to be in excellent shape. I wouldn't change it other than to paint the risers and spindles as Paintergirl, Palimsest and Hoosiergirl suggested.

I'm not a big proponent for building in such a "disposable" appliance. MWs of today aren't the tank like build of the old Amana Radarrange that were the size of a large hope chest! Even spendy MW's break, and then, if you've built it in, you're imprisoned to a very select set of expensive replacement models. And, since they don't make "paneled" MWs, and none of them are all that attractive, the less "bulk" with the trim kit etc. that they have, the less obvious they are. I much prefer a shelf on which to place a $79 throwaway MW, and when it dies, to replace it with another one that probably costs $59 at that point in time. You only need an inch or two clearance around most MWs, and if the non built in look really bothers you, you can get pocket doors that either slide back along the sides or lift up and in to reveal the MW when in use.

Side by side washer and dryer need approximately 60" of clear area. Then there's the issue of storage and a counter top with lower and upper cabs. Often there's a closet for broom, vacuum, mop, and shelves for cleaner, wax, soap and the like. Where will you put all these things in the plan above? If you reversed the W&D and relocated them on the wall separating the laundry from the closet, you could add a small closet with built-ins under the stairs.

Well, the under stairs plan is dead in the water. That wall is load bearing, and we would have to frame the opening with a beam. I don't think we are going to go that far. I am also realizing that we don't have enough counter space or prep space. I'm considering changing that double patio door to a tall window and single patio door. Then I can wrap around that corner and get space for countertop appliances that desperately need to be near the sink.