I think the height of the red shade is better, but still doesn't have the angle. In the sketch, the shade is 1/3 the height of the visible lamp base, up to the bottom of the shade - and 1/4 of the total height of the lamp, not counting the finial. I find that to be a very good proportion for a tall, skinny buffet lamp. Likewise, the diameter of the top of the shade is just about 1/4 the diameter of the bottom, and the shade is 2/3 as high as it is wide, which I think is a very pleasing proportion for the coolie style. You get a lot of angle and spread, but it's not too extreme for a more traditional style. Perhaps that will help you work out your dimensions. I'm sorry if I'm driving you to distraction! Once you find something that looks right to you, I think you should choose that.

There are downsides to painting the tile, even if it comes out well initially and you don't use the super cheap rustoleum kit. One thing is you have to stay up on the cleaning - using it more frequently but not as abrasively. For example, I wouldn't be able to scrub the grout except for gently, maybe with a toothbrush. Also, this is not a very long term solution, maybe 3-5 years if taken care of. By then I will most likely be ready for something else anyway. To do the shower and tub together (black + white) costs less than $200 plus a weekend or so of my time, which I usually have very little of but I have plenty right now. I am not trying to argue my way of you guy's good logic, but providing more information just in case some comments were directed at cheaper products / perception of long term use (10-15 years). Also, I know a lot of you are professionals or otherwise experienced in these areas so I am still seeking and valuing your input.

Ok, so I had to come back to reality and remind myself that I am working on a budget, a very small budget. So as I toyed with the idea of ripping out the carpet, replacing the banister, and installing that awesome blue antelope carpet, which I totally LOVE by the way, the dollar signs started added up in my head, I quickly came back to earth, and back to the idea of painting the banister (sigh). We are in the process painting the kitchen cabinets and installing granite so the stairs will have to be another project for another day (sigh again). Anyway!!! My painter is using General Finishes Java on the banister and the spindles will be white. What a huge difference already! Here is a sneak peak of the banister and a few pictures of my "in progress" cabinet just because I love them already.

Okay, thank you! Also, the wood French doors into the office. Maybe I’m just nitpicking it since I see it every day.. maybe adding cooler toned light bulbs in the foyer might brighten it up? The brown is really getting to me..