Yesterday I answered poring in the discussion instead of in the comment section Anyway, I can see there are new answers with very good ideas with lights Thank you

Hi Linda As Oklouise has said above, there are standards for the height range (riser) and the depth (going) along with a maximum pitch of the overall staircase (2R+G). It is a concern that you have fallen twice and we only ask as the photos aren't clear as to the proportions. It's no issue if you don't want to provide them. That said, if the going dimension is short then you are always coming down the stairs with the back half of your foot only. Regarding slippage, most flooring companies are not supplying nosings as the slip ratings can usually be achieved with high build coatings eg the Duragrip PLUS. This could probably be applied straight to your stairs as they are with a bit of a buff up first. Regarding the handrail, we have done curved handrails up and around these sort of staircases. I would suggest it would be money well spent in having the existing rail extended up and around the corner for safety so that the place where the steps are most tricky has a firm support. As it sits now you only have an end to hold onto. Cheers

The side wood is called a stringer. Stairs without stringers are usually harder to construct as they need more careful detailing and craftsmanship. The stair with the stringer will provide better durability to the base of the plasterboard wall and protect it from scuff marks and damage. It is not all just about looks but about practicalities as well. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

Bwefore I even started thinking about your want list , I'd want to see the house , when it was built , what has been altered over the years , structure , construction , load bearing walls , etc . I'm guessing at least some of the downstairs has been added or altered at some stage , because there doesn't seem to be a huge amount of logic -- a huge looking laundry , even a study bigger than bedrooms , etc . But thats why I wonder whether some are load bearing walls , and I especially wonder what the floors are made of . Just at a quick look , stairs coming up and 'exiting' along that right side wall by the kitchen and living , would suit that upstairs floor plan best , but it would very likely interfere with doors and even ceiling design in the downstairs bedrooms . Even basic questions need to be answered -- do you need 5 bedrooms , if so , is it worth adding on both downstairs and upstairs to add extra space that will make everything more logical ? If you did that , you may even find you can do a set of straight up , or stairs with a landing and 180 degree turn , that turns out to be way easier and cheaper than moving everything you have now . With more info , it may be a case that part of the downstairs can be gutted and essentially redesign the downstairs and/or the upstairs , but if the floor isn't suitable , or some walls can't be moved easily , its all a bit of a pointless exercise .