Agree with all above. First think what you need the extra space for - you have lots of options. Also remember it is a walk through, so a 'public' space. If used as a study would be best if not too messy or private.

You can put a timber cap on top of the gyprock wall, the same width as it, and paint it to match. I've done this detail a lot - and it gives people somewhere to hold onto as they climb the stairs. It's also easier to clean and more durable than the gyprock itself. You can also have it in timber to match the stairs or floors to make it a feature. Here's an example to show you ... Hope that helps, Regards Amelia, Undercover Architect www.undercoverarchitect.com

The only problem I see with placing plants anywhere near the steps, if leaves fall and are not cleared away, they will rot and become an eyesore as well as slippery if stepped on. Also it may reduce the space as the plant/s grow, as you use the steps. I think placing screens against the grey wall in a fancy pattern would look nice and is basically maintenance free. I would also paint the steps, maybe in the same shade as the screens, though I would leave the railing as it is closer to the window and you don't want to make it the feature.

Thank you for your Comments. It was the under-coat primer we used. And the client opted to paint it Black eventually in his spare time.