Stairway help

I live in a townshouse built in the late 1970's. The previous homeowner lived there for twenty years and did not change anything. Even though I bought at a good price I have spent a lot upgrading everything and there is still tons move to do.

One of the first things I did after moving in was to replace the 2" baseboard with 4" . When I got to the stairways I couldn't figure out how to transition so right now I have the larger baseboard meeting the steps and just stopping. In addition to the baseboard issue, the railing is some funky metal with this wood hand railing. I would like to replace it with wrought iron, but when I priced it - wow, it is way over my budget. Lastly, the flooring leading up to it is tile and the steps are carpeted.

Can anyone give me some ideas on how to transform my stairway on a modest budget? It is the first thing one sees coming into my home. Is there a supplier of iron railings that are prefabricated and also look good? My decorating style leans towards a mixture of Art Deco, Traditional, and 1930/40's,

Of all the projects in my house that need to be done this one baffles me. I've thought about painting the existing one, but that might make it worse.

Shelley

Hi Shelley, I would like for you to take a couple survey pictures.

1.) Close up side view of base board to stairway transition
2.) Close up view of carpeted step and tile landing
3.) Over all side view of staircase
4.) Metal and wood railing detail

Next a few questions

1.) Does the carpet on the steps continue on the second floor hallway and does it need replacing?
2.) Is your living room carpeted?
3.) What bothers you most about your staircase as walk in your home?
4.) What is your modest budget limit at this time?

Jess

Thanks Shelly,

The email you sent me with photographs was excellent. By viewing your photographs I can understand your disappointment with the entranceway. Your situation is not impossible but larger budget would help you greatly.

The railing is not great but it is the least of your problems, so I would paint it for now and possibly darken the hardwood handrail. Next the blue carpeting on the steps needs to go. The tile at the base of your steps is a neutral brown-tan and your new carpeting needs to complement it. I would also carpet the living floor to match. This would create at ascetically pleasing seamless look for the flooring, which is the foundation to your new look.

I think you need to add color to your walls. Your walls are white and color can help create a really nice warm atmosphere!!!

I can see you also need to do some filtering which is clearing your field of design. That is the subject of our first round table " Ruling Your Domain".

Get your evening gown ready!!!.......the Decor Divas are ready to party at the grand opening of your new design!!!

Jess

Jess,
As usual, you are spot on about the next steps for my stairway project.

The wall color is River Reed Green which is way too light for the space. I had considered going darker, however, this is a middle unit and it's starved for light. I have painted the walls three times in the last 3 years.

I am thinking of just taking a piece of the tile to the carpet store and trying to come as close as I can to matching the color. The tile in the entranceway is also in my kitchen.

Thank you for your thoughts and direction. Truly appreciated!

Shelley

I have great wholesale resources for carpet so check back with me on that purchase. As for color for your project it is possible go darker without creating a dungeon look. Accent lighting can really brighten the rooms and create warmth at the same time.


What times the party???

Jess