I agree what a beautiful kitchen.. I think Jeanne is right, a Black Wire Basket.. would look good. You could use a really large sized one up there and propped up (I've used wood blocks that are not seen) to elevate the basket and give it more height. It's kind of lost up there. I've even taken a basket and tilted it forward (propped up from the back) to bring it's contents into view. I think what Punk means is to move the Prints down to the other side - left of the basket and put them together...JMO I'd love to see the end results.. You have a beautiful kitchen...show us more!! jane

Yes a runner would be safer on the stairs. That raised edge (if I am seeing right) is a terrible tripping situation. My good friend had that and it was really bad. Hope you can get that done.

Is it possible to angle the trim on the left closer to the wall so that it will visually look parallel? Like say left side 30 Deg and right side 45 deg? I don't know.. plus chalking.. ?

Where are you located? They could have been migrating, or are sitting on eggs, or tending to babies in the nest. In my area they will fledge in early July and them you'll likely start seeing more again.