I'd change the carpet before anything else. And that's only because I'm not a fan of carpeted stairs. As Timandra said, colours all work. Cool handrail by the way!

Keeping everything else? Then black would look modern especially if the stairs can be stripped back and I would try to add a timber panel to the side too (are they timber?) or if you are looking at a pop of colour then pick your favourite!

I agree - I love the stair balustrading!! I would remove the carpet too...

Art Deco colours included black, grey. Cream, silver. What are the colours in the adjacent rooms?

Stair Dilemma

just take it a step at a time.

Balustrade is wonderful. I would strip the carpet paint the balustrade black then paint the brick wall and wooden panelled wall white. It would be fantastic if under the carpet was great quality timber. Just gorgeous.

If the wood on the stairs is going to be exposed, I'd paint the balustrade black and paint the brick wall opposite white. You may have to leave the timber trim which runs along the carpet edge. It's a wonderful balustrade

You know when I saw this photo first I thought it was an outside shot so it needs to be a colourful change. I would paint the brick a nice pale colour those bricks went out with the flood, there is absolutely nothing as bad as brown bricks. Sand back the wood and apply a light varnish this would lift the whole area. Also change the carpet to a strong colour and you won't know your staircase. Hope this helps.

My thoughts are: Paint the stair in a Matt Black (As per Tilly above), Definitely look to remove the carpet from the steps. The carpet spoils these beautiful treads. Is this brickwork all through the house? If so, then probably quite an expensive exercise to paint. If there is only a small amount of brickwork, then to paint it would radically change the appearance of the space. Perhaps also a grey toned carpet would work well.

Another vote for matte black and removal of carpet, would look amazing! I'd think about updating the light too, this really dates the space. If it falls within the budget and the ceiling height is enough, a modern pendant over the landing would look great! A Tom Dixon beat pendant would be right at home here! post a pic when you've finished!