I would also suggest to match the walls. When you look at where the stairs meets the wall...by making it two different colors it will appear choppy looking. Making it blend in together like it is part of the wall won't make that corner and the stairs stick out like a sore thumb.

You can't trust colours online, so if you order online make sure that it can be returned if it clashes. Your taupe/beige woodwork has a pinky undertone on my monitor, avoid colours with a yellow undertone. I selected dark blue because it's very fashionable, works with the pinky wood, plus with with two walls of Windows and a ceiling fan, I'm guessing the room gets hot. Blue is visually cooling. That's also why I put up blockout curtains and blinds. I think you need sheers too. neutrals work well with that blue, so do the dark reds, berry, brown, as you asked for dark. Also taupe, cream, light creamy pink, which is another very fashionable colour. I would search for metallic lamps if I were you. If it were me I'd choose champagne gold, but there are lots of options. At night it would be good to have that gleam with the dark scheme. let us know in your ideabook and here, which direction you are going to go.

Hi siriuskey So the large coir mat from Bunnings is much cheaper than the Chilewich. I'm confused now. Do you recommend the coir mat or the Chilewich? I'm not sure if I can even find a Chilewich in Adelaide to bring home for a look ....

Don't box your stairs in, as it will close in the space. You do need to address the balustrade as it doesn't comply with the current regulations and actually looks a bit flimsy - painting it will not improve the safety aspect so don' even bother. Steel stringer stairs are most certainly not cheap, and are often used in high end architect designed houses. I would consider refinishing the timber stair treads by sanding them back and applying a tough, clear, timber floor finish, possibly in a satin or matt before you install a new balustrade. The only thing that could do with a paint is the existing steel, possibly in a matt black. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls