I don't disagree but assuming I left everything as is - I think the budget on a project like this would be more than I was willing to spend...I never realized how much split level homes irritated me until we moved here lol

I would wonder first if I wanted to match the white paint as in the kitchen (white?) also, if I love the wood of the kitchen cabinets and hardware to be able to keep a uniform base for the rest of the home. You have white trim, okay, great start to be able to open the space up. Rugs: runner at the entry, at least a 8x10 in the living area, and at least a 5x7 for the dining area. How about coordinating curtains for this space. Is the dining room a sliding door? Because the hanging blinds in the livingroom suit more a sliding door spot. Rather have blinds or shades paired with curtains if both just windows. Rods and knobs in a coordinating finish as the kitchen knobs. The round table in the rectangular dining space seems off. Would love to sneak a peak at your lighting fixtures. Your entry table setup looks nice, what is your style, the table in the dining space seems cottage, the sofas heavy, could we get more of a view of the other corner of the fireplace? How about a curio on long wall in dining area. A table with a bench on the kitchen side would be nice.

I suggest you paint the wall red…specifically B.M. Dinner Party Red. Perfect with the gray cabinets and a nice warm, welcoming color.

You just need a cleaner. less busy stair, fewer spindles, more "beef" But..........there is code. No more open space between than four inches. You need a contractor. I wouldn't close it in.....it's too close to the front door and will look congested. Tempered glass....or reduce the busy too many spindles. Just remember ......it is a total design, toatal cleanup. All the way up and in concert all. : ) Balusters, railing..ALL, and in consideration of the rest of your home.