JJ, you really need a landing zone w/some storage. is there where everyone comes in and drops everything? What do you think about doing a tall storage bench with a panel to hang backpacks and such? Can you guys DIY at all? look at this white one
you could do baskets below, or build in doors or cubbies.
you could do your risers in white, but I'd leave the treads as is since it matches your flooring. Down the road if you ever redo your wood floors, you can go a bit darker and have the treads done then. like this:
The railing. to redo, take some steel wool or other sand paper and give it a quick go over to remove any flakes or chips. Spray with a new white shade, or try Rustoleum 'Dark Walnut" color. it's similar to an Espresso.
However, the railing would prob be the first thing I'd save for and redo. Shouldn't be too much since the pieces are rather small. check out some prices.
Can you do something like,
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living room
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