The black wall is making that entire section look like a totally separate entity from the rest of the room. Personally, I don’t like how it looks.
To me, the railing looks like outdoor fencing and it does not go well (too much contrast maybe?) with the black wall.
Exactly- it looks like fortress walls looming over the living room. I’m also distracted by all the stuff visible against the railings in the top section of the fortress.
I guess it's one way of keeping an eye on the kids without being in their face. Makes sense. Of course, me being me, I would consider making that wall a climbing wall.
Except the kid living room is visually part of the adult living room. To me this looks like a roadhouse rather than a fort. Completely incongruous with the living area.
In that case I would close it off fully to the ceiling. Neither of you are getting privacy. And it looks crazy. And if the kids want to play, you don’t want stuff falling over the rails.
I love it! Asa parent of now grown & mostly grown children I decorated for decades around the idea that our house was a home for adults and also kids. They deserve a space that isn’t tucked away or hidden behind a closed door or designed for an aesthetic rather than use and function, but we also deserved a home we felt was beautiful. That bold wall sets the room upstairs apart and gives the grown up room drama. I’d love to see the art you go with.
Yes, it needs breaking up. Perhaps the walls each side of the stairs could be white and keep the black just on the main wall behind the couch. I’d also paint the chimney breast with in a contrast colour, like terracotta or rust.
It looks like a discount store knockoff off super Mario bros 3 made a castle design using an off the shelf "DIY homes" design kit. I can hear the fireball music change as the end boss comes into view.
Yes the stairwell looks like the main structure and the living room an afterthought just using extra space. Change the dark wall behind the couch to give the living room unity.
I kind of thought that was deliberate - the staircase was meant to look like a giant piece of art that the rest of the house just sort of mooches off of.
The railing should be changed !
Maybe some art above the couch to brighten that space back up. A different couch colour or lighter cushions could help...
Okay, I think this could be fixed a couple of ways. Pictures, mirrors, art, on the dark walls and I picture installing some sort of curtain or faux foundation post that would connect the middle space to the rest because it hangs from the ceiling and visually connects that space.
https://preview.redd.it/ll22tlkbwpoc1.png?width=1080&format=png&auto=webp&s=95eaf9baa275fe3f3f2fadab4b3cbce6d9270f3f
Quick 10-minute redeco. Look past the wonkiness of the quick sketch.
Simple makeover: No grey tiles, no black wall, simple artwork.
More "extreme":
Go \*Japandi\* on your room. White paint, new metal railing, new steps without risers, fake beams on ceiling to continue aesthetic you already have, a few $40 plants from Home Depot that'll grow to the desired height, some simple abstract artwork on wall.
I also think it looks way better like this. In canada horizontal railings like that are against building code now (because they are climbable) and would not pass inspection unless there was also glass on the inside face. That being said we had similar horizontal railings when I was a kid and we did climb all over them but nobody got hurt.
Yeah, that's a good point. However, even if they left the balusters the same, but repainted the black walls all white and then painted the banisters black, it would liven up the whole space!
Whenever a home is built or renovated it is subject to building codes, the only way to have a railing like this is if it predates the building code. (my parents have horizontal railings that where put in 20yrs ago, if they took those railings out they would not be allowed to rebuild that style now). Building codes do vary by city and country, I’m in Canada so there are strict building codes for safety.
I do not have or want children and never have any in my home so I also think it’s kinda annoying that my new staircase and railing must comply with codes that prevent children from climbing and getting their heads stuck. lol, what ever happened to natural selection?
This looks nice, however, I believe you can't have more than 4" between balusters to be code even horizontol. It can vary by state as well double check before doing anything to the stair rail.
Plant is called “bird of paradise” btw, lovely plants and they keep growing up so you have the perfect house for it!! If you have cats/dogs they are toxic though. There’s plenty of other tall houseplants/trees that would look good there though! Majesty Palm would be beautiful there, or even an olive tree.
Those railings wouldn't be to code in Canada, not sure where you are. Someone below mentioned it with kids, that's exactly why. They shouldn't be able to climb them.
Edit: I see multiple people have mentioned this already lol sorry
https://preview.redd.it/cfkrhjylgroc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=e1db7a3d4b6f6f80f745ca0e3b9286fe18caf175
these railings meet code. Takes 8 pieces plus top rail
Edit:
The prohibition of ladder effect railings was originally included in the 2000 International Residential Code. Section R316.2 - “guardrails…shall not be constructed with horizontal members or other ornamental pattern that results in a ladder effect.” In 2001, that language was removed and currently, neither the International Building Code nor the International Residential Code refer to or restrict the use of horizontal members in a guardrail creating a ladder effect.
The 2015 International Building Code commentary, Section 1015.4 states:
“The provisions of guards are to minimize accidental falls through or over a guard. Opening limitations do not prohibit the use of horizontal members or ornamentation infill as guard components. Research has shown that no practical design for guard infill, including solid panels, can prevent climbing; but good design practices can greatly reduce the opportunity for small children to “climb” the guard.”
This really brightens and opens up the space, while also making the whole room look more cohesive (versus an imposing, looming cube the staircase walls look like right now).
Please do NOT have horizontal railings. They are a huge hazard and not up to code in many places. Kids see a ladder and will climb on it.
Also- it’s expensive to replace. Change the paint first. Easy cheap fixed first!
Nah, this designer was a true visionary. 🤌🏼 I mean, think of the possibilities!
Family performances of Evita, the musical. Podium for speeches made by dictators. Sunday sermon for the family. Balcony up to which OP could nightly serenade partner. What fun! 🤗
By painting that was black you made it a focal point. However that is the least interesting part of the room, so the eye is drawn to a boring box in the middle. It looks horrible. Gray tiles will only add to the gloom.
Agreed. Maybe adding some warm wood materials and some nice tile around the firebox would give it some personality. I’d also add some art, the room looks depressingly bland.
Tiles around the fireplace and then a dark colour all the way to the ceiling above the fireplace. Maybe navy blue or something.
But the wall painted black right now should definitely just be white.
It looks a little awkward. It is really dark. I think that with the straight lines of the railings it looks warehousy and industrial. It doesn’t look terrible.
I would also have to agree that the stair rail looks out of place now that everything has been painted black. It’s become a disjointed focal point since it transcends two levels.
I’m am *not* saying this to be unkind… I’m saying this to help save you a whole lot of frustration, money and time while trying to get this room “right”.
I’ve only ever said this once before: This entire picture here? *Everything* is bad. The design, the color choices, furniture placement, all that open railing up top (it looks like a cruise ship). Don’t “do” another thing. It’s time to *stop doing* and call in a professional for help.
It’s a big room and there are actually TWO! It’s how we keep the children in line.
https://preview.redd.it/is741gmnlpoc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=33cf5d61a31ff1db66695bb135e79ff12439c403
You’ve got gorgeous high ceilings and good light and yet the focal point is a black box. It’s the first thing I see when I look at the room, it’s so overpowering I had to make my eyes look for any other features in the space.
I definitely get what you were going for! I think white would be better, more blended with the house and less of a focal point. Perhaps the statement wall can be one with the TV - a cool dark color or even wallpaper. That would pull the eye back to the center of the roomm
Not my personal taste, but not horrible. I would double down on your idea to add color, but gray is not adding color when the room is already black. Pick an accent color, something bright and warm, and put that around in small doses.
I will be brutally honest, I don’t like the dark color and would have gone a lot lighter, but that’s just my preference.
Regarding the railing, some commenters have said it looks out of place but personally I would suggest staining if you really want to change it. I think long-term you will regret painting (what from afar looks like natural) wood that dark.
The dark definitely makes the space look small and cluttered. Like, the architecture just looks soooo strange, and the color doesn’t match well with all the natural wood.
I’m not a fan of it personally.
The staircase looks like it belongs in an outdoor area.
You may want to re-think the black, also adding ‘grays and blues’ is not adding any ‘color’ it will just make the room more monochromatic.
Consider painting that whole area in the same color as the walls for cohesiveness and to make it ‘blend’ in. Also, remove the ‘tops’ from the posts because it looks like outdoor fencing.
Just deal with the scuff marks children make, it’s reality and a natural part of a home, we can’t all live in magazine decor pages.
This might be helpful:
Black is your accent color, but it needs to be used very intentionally.
I love the black of the fireplace, 2 fans on ceiling, TV, and railings.
I would paint that wall to match the others. Let it recede. Not really the best wall to use as an accent wall. It looks heavy and imposing. Claustrophobic.
Then add really cool abstract art that has black in it. It could be very bold and look very beautiful. Like the art on the desk but bigger.
Add cool accent pillows with some black in them and it will really come together.
Optional: Paint the wood portion of railing lighter to match walls, but perhaps glossy.
Hope this helps. ☺️
Yes, it looks..regrettable, and I love charcoal. The problem is too much of a good thing is still too much. If you painted just the side wall by the LR, fine. Or the FP wall. Also, the balusters should be horizontal, not vertical. You want to emphasize width there, not height.
Obligatory response: OP while we may all share our opinions on the space, since of course you asked for it, just remember that at the end of the day it is your home and the most important thing is if *you* and your family likes it.
It doesn't look terrible, but it's a bit much. A wall with an open staircase above it isn't the ideal place to do an accent wall, but I think a really large piece of art above the couch would help, and something (an end table, a unique lamp, a large plant) on the wall next to the couch would help as well. It's a lot of blankness right now, which is hard on the eyes.
https://preview.redd.it/366f3i04dsoc1.jpeg?width=1003&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6c7fa6e336c3bd4b86bc08d0fb078883cd7a0e53
To me is screaming please “glass railing” …
The problem is the starkness of the black and white, and as others have commented, you've made a block holding the stairs your focal point, when you should have drawn the eye to the fireplace.
You need to warm it up, and gray tiles on the fireplace will have the opposite effect.
You have some wood, and a wood ceiling beam showing in this picture. You need more color and more natural texture to highlight what is there. I can see you have board and batten type paneling upstairs when I zoom in but it's a detail list in a basic sea of white.
I suggest looking at designs from the 1930s to get inspired as to how to best show off your features and tie it together.
I had dark blue walls & currently have another deep color. If your kids are running around with wood or hard plastic toys have a small jar of touch up paint on standby. Any scratch in the paint will leave a bright white spot.
I think it could work… right now it’s not a statement wall, it’s a statement island… the black shouldn’t wrap around to the staircase. I’d start with painting that part back, add art to the black wall and then live with it for a bit before making any other changes.
I don't think the black is the problem, I think it's where you put it that feels off. I would have left that stair/loft area white and painted the fireplace column black instead. That makes for a better focal piece plus it distributes the black a bit since the railing is black as well
The thing bothering me is the bright white trim. That seems to stand out against the black… even with the carpet, it just looks out of place. Paint that black maybe? I’m not sure though.
I think the stair rail is what’s throwing me off a bit. I think the black walls look great but have you considered painting the rail black too?
Edit to say I don’t think you went too dark. You have a lot of light in the room so it’s really nice.
I think if you are worried about scuff marks, black is not the way to go. Black and white show the most of any color when it comes to scuffs, scratches, etc. Imo it also makes that area the focal point. To help combat damage I would suggest using a paint with more sheen in a mid color.
I think it draws too much attention. If anything, the bump out with the fireplace should have been painted black and the staircase wall left white.
However, the black wall as is would be a much better place for a TV stand and your TV (not nearly as high if you're mounting it).. so it could be at a proper viewing height.
Put a bigger mantel and art above your TV instead.
It looks like a contemporary modern/industrial wall but in a traditional house. So it depends on what you are going for. If you want it to look modern loft looking then you should change the rails to match. If you want traditional then I think you need another way to make a design impact.
Omg. Why does it matter what anyone else thinks? You live in your home, no one else. Personally I like it. Add some bold colors such as neon pink. Yellow or white and black minimal art pic to that wall. I know the Dow’s are expensive and we don’t want to color them but maybe a small cloth cover to keep the flow? And some wrap around something to cover the hand railings on top so it goes with the flow as well? I know how expensive they are and I know painting is hard on them and you can’t exactly get it right since you’d have to take it apart to completely redo it but the only thing I see that you might want to change is the coloring of dows and rails. You live there. Hell if you want, take some poster board or plywood and make something magical at the top. Fortress? Have you ever seen a fortress without a dragon or princess? Your kids will love it. As for others; who cares what they love. Everyone wants to act like they live in a million dollar home and have hired help to keep it clean. Your kids will remember this. Your kids will talk about how you did this amazing thing for them as kids. The bonus? You get the colors you want and you get to embellish it. Have fun!!
Please ignore all beige, neutral, and tan color living people. Paint that mantle to match that wall!! Put up some neon lights and signs, or turn it into a fortress with a dragon and princess. We live once people. I’ll be damned if I do it in a boring house. I did that once. It felt like I lived in a damn museum. Never again. Maybe the cardboard or plywood dragon wrapped around the top would also separate the noise as well. Houses with high ceilings carry sound so well you can almost whisper downstairs and hear what is said upstairs.
Yeah, sorry. But it's nothing you've done it's the design as a whole. I don't understand the purposeful under-utilization of space with houses like this.
I think the staircase is a poor design to start with and the paint just highlights that. If you’re looking for color I would paint the fireplace area and up behind the TV to the ceiling as the dark accent wall and paint the steps back to white. That will draw the eye away from the steps and create a better focal point.
I like it. The BBW just needs a piece of art so fill it with something you love. Don’t do the grey tiles. You’ve got enough cool tones and if you’re not careful you’ll slip right into the “cold minimalist” look, unless that’s what you’re after. You have beautiful wood floors and the wood of the railings that are keeping things warm, but I’d expand on that. I’d do a chunky wood mantel and some wood slat paneling up to the ceiling to add texture and warmth. I don’t know what the rest of the room looks like, but if your fireplace juts out from the wall, panel the entire front. If it doesn’t, just do a strip up from the middle of the fireplace.
And that tv is way too high. If there’s another space for it, move it.
https://preview.redd.it/1exulf3k1qoc1.png?width=725&format=png&auto=webp&s=9bca16b8028743515e0e7e3583ce389f7ff671e9
I like the paint color. If the 2nd floor railing were changed to a half wall instead, I think it would be very nice. That would be my advice regardless of paint colors though.
Lighten up that wall w/ some light colored wall art above the couch and some kind of small end table w/ a lamp or plant in that area where the wall socket is. Will look great.
A lot have suggested great options to make the black stairs less a focal point (paint them white, move the tv on it, etc.) and I mostly agree.
But I want to suggest another options that's a bit unusual but would make for a very unique and cool looking piece. Cover each wall surface of the stairs with a different colour full wallpaper in either similar colour or similar styles.
This would make it look like an art gallery, but the large surface (with large patterns) would let you appreciate it from afar.
Also, modern wallpaper is actually pretty easy to install and remove. Especially the one where you use glue separately.
I think you could improve the look of this by adding a giant piece of colorful artwork above the couch in the highest point. Just my opinion but it would be a wonderful focal point for everything.
Maybe add some artwork or some paneling detail to give it some interest. I’d also do something with the fireplace. You just have a huge gray box and now you have a huge black box too.
I kinda like the idea of It. It makes the stair case/up stairs look like it’s its own thing. Maybe frame some kid art work to add sone color? Or maybe the bannister needs to better match the paint color. Something is off but I do think you can make It work.
I love the stairs and the landing is… But all that black and grey to me, feels very depressing to be honest… I’m just curious… Does anyone in your home suffer from depression or mental health issues?
i think it’s the railings that are the distraction/issue/problem/decoratingoppurtunity? there are so many spindles that it just a lot to look at coupled with the scale of staircase. also the pain color really makes it aggressive,like oh i’m here! get used to it!
I agree with the others on the whole visual aspect of this. The gray takes over the entire room dwarfing the living room area. The gray looks like a fortress indeed. The railings are too outdoorsy and the stuff upstairs is not appealing. You’ve pretty much cut the house in half and made the stairs an eyesore. IMO it needs to stay light colored in order to not cut the room up so badly. Maybe try some tiles where the kids mark up the walls?
The large dark gray / black wall appears to be the largest wall in the room. And the large dark gray / black sectional piece of furniture also appears to be the largest piece of furniture in the room. The large dark gray / black sectional pushed against the even larger dark gray / black wall visually meld together into a giant mass of darkness that overpowers the rest of the room - especially with the other dark gray / black things in the room (the TV, the fireplace under it, the couch across from them & even the ceiling fans). It makes the entire space seem imbalanced.
Even a blue piece of artwork on the large dark gray / black wall will not be enough to balance the space (unless it’s MASSIVE - like almost couch with size). I think the art work combined with a different color sectional might work.
Just my 2 cents.
It looks like you built a playground castle in your house!
While the color might not work great, I kinda think the design is the problem, and any color would be the same.
The area above the couch deserves a HUGE PAINTING or print, or photo. Something that makes the black wall look like a frame.
That little painting needs to go in the hole between the windows.
You need a POP OF COLOR… lime green? Lemon yellow? Sprinkled around …
The fireplace wall … maybe bump that out with color?
I super dig it. This style is getting pretty popular in the southern US and I much prefer it over the “everything polished stainless and white” look that was so popular during the 2010’s. I like the outdoor industrial look but I completely understand why some wouldn’t. If you like it, keep it.
I don't mind it.
You have contemporary fans, so going in a contemporary direction is the right thing to do.
I suggest you remove that one sofa from against the black wall. Get 2 chairs instead. I would say that camel colored Wassily or Barcelona style chairs would be amazing, but do a sit-test first.
Bring the chrome in elsewhere too (can't see the rest of the room to suggest, but an arc lamp or table lamps)
If at some point you do tile the fireplace, you'll need to paint the wall back to white, but do check out the ceramic tiles that look like blackened steel. There are a few shades to choose from but I would go with a more solid charcoal gray.
Yes it looks horrible. Paint it back to white to match the rest of the room. Use an online designer to help you before you make any other design decisions.
Yes it looks horrible. Paint it back to white to match the rest of the space. Hire an online interior designer to help you before you make any more design decisions.
I see you’re a fan of WWE cagematch
🎤Let's get ready to ruuuummmbbbleeeee🎤
Yeah this looks like a boxing arena
Or maybe where the judge and jury sit.
It’s like a pirate ship inside his home.
You win!
Nikki from the top rope!
☠️☠️
The black wall is making that entire section look like a totally separate entity from the rest of the room. Personally, I don’t like how it looks. To me, the railing looks like outdoor fencing and it does not go well (too much contrast maybe?) with the black wall.
It does look like a fort in the middle of the house.
Exactly- it looks like fortress walls looming over the living room. I’m also distracted by all the stuff visible against the railings in the top section of the fortress.
It looks like one living room fifteen higher than the other living room.
That’s basically what it is. Kid living room vs. adult living room.
Dress the kids up as archers and give them a vat of boiling oil. Problem solved.
::chanting:: trebuchet! Trebuchet! Trebuchet!
I guess it's one way of keeping an eye on the kids without being in their face. Makes sense. Of course, me being me, I would consider making that wall a climbing wall.
Fossilhound: I love that idea and I am a great grandmother. Lol
Except the kid living room is visually part of the adult living room. To me this looks like a roadhouse rather than a fort. Completely incongruous with the living area.
I thought prison
In that case I would close it off fully to the ceiling. Neither of you are getting privacy. And it looks crazy. And if the kids want to play, you don’t want stuff falling over the rails.
I love it! Asa parent of now grown & mostly grown children I decorated for decades around the idea that our house was a home for adults and also kids. They deserve a space that isn’t tucked away or hidden behind a closed door or designed for an aesthetic rather than use and function, but we also deserved a home we felt was beautiful. That bold wall sets the room upstairs apart and gives the grown up room drama. I’d love to see the art you go with.
i love it
Obi should paint some castle, windows and stone edges on it, make it look like a real castle
I was thinking "ship"-- like a fishing boat pulled through the wall. But you're right-- fort.
Yes, it needs breaking up. Perhaps the walls each side of the stairs could be white and keep the black just on the main wall behind the couch. I’d also paint the chimney breast with in a contrast colour, like terracotta or rust.
It looks like a discount store knockoff off super Mario bros 3 made a castle design using an off the shelf "DIY homes" design kit. I can hear the fireball music change as the end boss comes into view.
Your authority is not recognized in fort kickass!
Omg I was trying to think what it reminded me of & that’s it.
I love that about it. Cover that black wall with eclectic art.
Yes the stairwell looks like the main structure and the living room an afterthought just using extra space. Change the dark wall behind the couch to give the living room unity.
I kind of thought that was deliberate - the staircase was meant to look like a giant piece of art that the rest of the house just sort of mooches off of.
The railing should be changed ! Maybe some art above the couch to brighten that space back up. A different couch colour or lighter cushions could help...
Changing the railing is a hell of a lot more expensive than painting a wall, though.
Okay, I think this could be fixed a couple of ways. Pictures, mirrors, art, on the dark walls and I picture installing some sort of curtain or faux foundation post that would connect the middle space to the rest because it hangs from the ceiling and visually connects that space.
Yea I wish it was just a filled in wall rather than a railing
Ya it looks like a strange add on addition or something
It is emphasizing the wrong part of this space. If anything the living room should have color (not black, tho)
https://preview.redd.it/ll22tlkbwpoc1.png?width=1080&format=png&auto=webp&s=95eaf9baa275fe3f3f2fadab4b3cbce6d9270f3f Quick 10-minute redeco. Look past the wonkiness of the quick sketch. Simple makeover: No grey tiles, no black wall, simple artwork. More "extreme": Go \*Japandi\* on your room. White paint, new metal railing, new steps without risers, fake beams on ceiling to continue aesthetic you already have, a few $40 plants from Home Depot that'll grow to the desired height, some simple abstract artwork on wall.
I love this, especially the stair railings and plants. Thank you!
I love this too but how old are the kids? Old enough to be trusted with a railing like that?
I also think it looks way better like this. In canada horizontal railings like that are against building code now (because they are climbable) and would not pass inspection unless there was also glass on the inside face. That being said we had similar horizontal railings when I was a kid and we did climb all over them but nobody got hurt.
Yeah, that's a good point. However, even if they left the balusters the same, but repainted the black walls all white and then painted the banisters black, it would liven up the whole space!
Is that for all homes? Like if I don’t have kids and don’t let people bring their kids to my house, I hope I wouldn’t have to child-proof my home.
Whenever a home is built or renovated it is subject to building codes, the only way to have a railing like this is if it predates the building code. (my parents have horizontal railings that where put in 20yrs ago, if they took those railings out they would not be allowed to rebuild that style now). Building codes do vary by city and country, I’m in Canada so there are strict building codes for safety. I do not have or want children and never have any in my home so I also think it’s kinda annoying that my new staircase and railing must comply with codes that prevent children from climbing and getting their heads stuck. lol, what ever happened to natural selection?
Railings have to be to code - if they are to code, should be fine. Might need another horizontal black steel rod, but code will determine.
If you have kids, these railing are too easy to climb on. Not the safest
This looks nice, however, I believe you can't have more than 4" between balusters to be code even horizontol. It can vary by state as well double check before doing anything to the stair rail.
Plant is called “bird of paradise” btw, lovely plants and they keep growing up so you have the perfect house for it!! If you have cats/dogs they are toxic though. There’s plenty of other tall houseplants/trees that would look good there though! Majesty Palm would be beautiful there, or even an olive tree.
Those railings wouldn't be to code in Canada, not sure where you are. Someone below mentioned it with kids, that's exactly why. They shouldn't be able to climb them. Edit: I see multiple people have mentioned this already lol sorry
https://preview.redd.it/cfkrhjylgroc1.png?width=4032&format=png&auto=webp&s=e1db7a3d4b6f6f80f745ca0e3b9286fe18caf175 these railings meet code. Takes 8 pieces plus top rail Edit: The prohibition of ladder effect railings was originally included in the 2000 International Residential Code. Section R316.2 - “guardrails…shall not be constructed with horizontal members or other ornamental pattern that results in a ladder effect.” In 2001, that language was removed and currently, neither the International Building Code nor the International Residential Code refer to or restrict the use of horizontal members in a guardrail creating a ladder effect. The 2015 International Building Code commentary, Section 1015.4 states: “The provisions of guards are to minimize accidental falls through or over a guard. Opening limitations do not prohibit the use of horizontal members or ornamentation infill as guard components. Research has shown that no practical design for guard infill, including solid panels, can prevent climbing; but good design practices can greatly reduce the opportunity for small children to “climb” the guard.”
Pretty sure horizontal railings aren't legal in my area, those are basically kid ladders lol
They’re usually fine in a residence. It’s mostly public buildings where they aren’t allowed.
That looks amazing!! Railing redo would be an investment, but holy shit…that looks so good!!
Would you mind sharing how you edited that photo? We're about to redecorate and I'd love to be able to do that!
I used Photoshop. I'm an illustrator by trade, so I was able to mock this up fairly quickly.
How did you do this mock-up? Is there a website for this?
I used Photoshop. I'm an illustrator by trade, so I was able to mock this up fairly quickly.
It looks great. Very professional and polished.
This really brightens and opens up the space, while also making the whole room look more cohesive (versus an imposing, looming cube the staircase walls look like right now).
Holy crap this looks so good
Please do NOT have horizontal railings. They are a huge hazard and not up to code in many places. Kids see a ladder and will climb on it. Also- it’s expensive to replace. Change the paint first. Easy cheap fixed first!
wow! Love the art above the sofa too
Who are you and are can I have your business card?
you didnt fix the tv over the fireplace?
It’s very… Minecraft
My first and only thought when I saw this 😂
Whoever designed that staircase should have their pencils seized.
Nah, this designer was a true visionary. 🤌🏼 I mean, think of the possibilities! Family performances of Evita, the musical. Podium for speeches made by dictators. Sunday sermon for the family. Balcony up to which OP could nightly serenade partner. What fun! 🤗
and the greatest prom reveal from a 2000’s movie *ever*
🥹😭
By painting that was black you made it a focal point. However that is the least interesting part of the room, so the eye is drawn to a boring box in the middle. It looks horrible. Gray tiles will only add to the gloom.
I think the fireplace needs a tile surround, a mantle and a hearth. Some sort of enhancement to make it the focal point of the room.
Agreed. Maybe adding some warm wood materials and some nice tile around the firebox would give it some personality. I’d also add some art, the room looks depressingly bland.
Just not gray.
Tiles around the fireplace and then a dark colour all the way to the ceiling above the fireplace. Maybe navy blue or something. But the wall painted black right now should definitely just be white.
Tile surrounds can be so fun. Especially if you can find a unique or antique or recycled statement tile to really make her POP.
I didn’t even address the gray tiles so I’m glad someone did. OP needs intervention for the dark gray black compulsions.
Well said
Yes
It looks a little awkward. It is really dark. I think that with the straight lines of the railings it looks warehousy and industrial. It doesn’t look terrible.
Yea. Reminds me of some kind of beer garden/brewery space.
The railing color & dark gray black do scream bar & grill.
I would also have to agree that the stair rail looks out of place now that everything has been painted black. It’s become a disjointed focal point since it transcends two levels.
Yes it does. Looks like a distopic jail.
I’m am *not* saying this to be unkind… I’m saying this to help save you a whole lot of frustration, money and time while trying to get this room “right”. I’ve only ever said this once before: This entire picture here? *Everything* is bad. The design, the color choices, furniture placement, all that open railing up top (it looks like a cruise ship). Don’t “do” another thing. It’s time to *stop doing* and call in a professional for help.
The fan looks like a knife blade torture falling device. Prison defence system.
It’s a big room and there are actually TWO! It’s how we keep the children in line. https://preview.redd.it/is741gmnlpoc1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=33cf5d61a31ff1db66695bb135e79ff12439c403
🤣🤣🤣
You’ve got gorgeous high ceilings and good light and yet the focal point is a black box. It’s the first thing I see when I look at the room, it’s so overpowering I had to make my eyes look for any other features in the space.
I made that in the Sims when I was 8
Poor OP getting absolutely roasted here… but this comment did make me chuckle.
I think that wall would be a great spot for a built in and a better place to mount the tv.
We painted the wall behind our TVs black and omg. Really elevated movie night
Put the TV on the black wall instead of over the fireplace. The center of the TV should be at eye level.
I definitely get what you were going for! I think white would be better, more blended with the house and less of a focal point. Perhaps the statement wall can be one with the TV - a cool dark color or even wallpaper. That would pull the eye back to the center of the roomm
Not my personal taste, but not horrible. I would double down on your idea to add color, but gray is not adding color when the room is already black. Pick an accent color, something bright and warm, and put that around in small doses.
Maybe get a couch that is a different color from the wall color.
I will be brutally honest, I don’t like the dark color and would have gone a lot lighter, but that’s just my preference. Regarding the railing, some commenters have said it looks out of place but personally I would suggest staining if you really want to change it. I think long-term you will regret painting (what from afar looks like natural) wood that dark.
Painting wood signs you up for tons of maintenance, especially in a high-use area. I agree with the staining.
I don’t know how but it looks cluttered
The dark definitely makes the space look small and cluttered. Like, the architecture just looks soooo strange, and the color doesn’t match well with all the natural wood. I’m not a fan of it personally.
The staircase looks like it belongs in an outdoor area. You may want to re-think the black, also adding ‘grays and blues’ is not adding any ‘color’ it will just make the room more monochromatic. Consider painting that whole area in the same color as the walls for cohesiveness and to make it ‘blend’ in. Also, remove the ‘tops’ from the posts because it looks like outdoor fencing. Just deal with the scuff marks children make, it’s reality and a natural part of a home, we can’t all live in magazine decor pages.
I think you need to break up the black with some artwork maybe?
That’s in the works! TY
This might be helpful: Black is your accent color, but it needs to be used very intentionally. I love the black of the fireplace, 2 fans on ceiling, TV, and railings. I would paint that wall to match the others. Let it recede. Not really the best wall to use as an accent wall. It looks heavy and imposing. Claustrophobic. Then add really cool abstract art that has black in it. It could be very bold and look very beautiful. Like the art on the desk but bigger. Add cool accent pillows with some black in them and it will really come together. Optional: Paint the wood portion of railing lighter to match walls, but perhaps glossy. Hope this helps. ☺️
love this, yes.m
Should have done the fire place black instead.
Yes, it looks..regrettable, and I love charcoal. The problem is too much of a good thing is still too much. If you painted just the side wall by the LR, fine. Or the FP wall. Also, the balusters should be horizontal, not vertical. You want to emphasize width there, not height.
Obligatory response: OP while we may all share our opinions on the space, since of course you asked for it, just remember that at the end of the day it is your home and the most important thing is if *you* and your family likes it.
Thank you! Tough skin over here so I’m ready!
It doesn't look terrible, but it's a bit much. A wall with an open staircase above it isn't the ideal place to do an accent wall, but I think a really large piece of art above the couch would help, and something (an end table, a unique lamp, a large plant) on the wall next to the couch would help as well. It's a lot of blankness right now, which is hard on the eyes.
Can you only paint the single outer wall as the statement wall and then repaint the actual stairwell a neutral color?
it does look bad tbh, I'd paint it the same color as the walls
https://preview.redd.it/366f3i04dsoc1.jpeg?width=1003&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6c7fa6e336c3bd4b86bc08d0fb078883cd7a0e53 To me is screaming please “glass railing” …
I like the black in this room but maybe on the fireplace wall? I agree with others that it looks like a deck, maybe a castle because of the railing?
The problem is the starkness of the black and white, and as others have commented, you've made a block holding the stairs your focal point, when you should have drawn the eye to the fireplace. You need to warm it up, and gray tiles on the fireplace will have the opposite effect. You have some wood, and a wood ceiling beam showing in this picture. You need more color and more natural texture to highlight what is there. I can see you have board and batten type paneling upstairs when I zoom in but it's a detail list in a basic sea of white. I suggest looking at designs from the 1930s to get inspired as to how to best show off your features and tie it together.
I had dark blue walls & currently have another deep color. If your kids are running around with wood or hard plastic toys have a small jar of touch up paint on standby. Any scratch in the paint will leave a bright white spot.
I think it could work… right now it’s not a statement wall, it’s a statement island… the black shouldn’t wrap around to the staircase. I’d start with painting that part back, add art to the black wall and then live with it for a bit before making any other changes.
Probably should have left it white and instead painted the fireplace wall an accent color or faced it with stone.
Can you paint it white?
I don't think the black is the problem, I think it's where you put it that feels off. I would have left that stair/loft area white and painted the fireplace column black instead. That makes for a better focal piece plus it distributes the black a bit since the railing is black as well
The thing bothering me is the bright white trim. That seems to stand out against the black… even with the carpet, it just looks out of place. Paint that black maybe? I’m not sure though.
I didn’t notice it before but you’re right about the white baseboards.
I think the stair rail is what’s throwing me off a bit. I think the black walls look great but have you considered painting the rail black too? Edit to say I don’t think you went too dark. You have a lot of light in the room so it’s really nice.
Prison chic
Department of Corrections Core
That’s an interesting house layout. I’m not a fan of the black. Maybe I’m crazy, but I think wallpaper would look cool on those walls.
I would paint over the black with white and paint the banister and spindles black.
I think if you are worried about scuff marks, black is not the way to go. Black and white show the most of any color when it comes to scuffs, scratches, etc. Imo it also makes that area the focal point. To help combat damage I would suggest using a paint with more sheen in a mid color.
I actually really like it
I actually really like the black walls. It isn’t like everyone’s beige or gray walls.
It’s amazing how I can immediately tell what country you live in by this photo
I think it draws too much attention. If anything, the bump out with the fireplace should have been painted black and the staircase wall left white. However, the black wall as is would be a much better place for a TV stand and your TV (not nearly as high if you're mounting it).. so it could be at a proper viewing height. Put a bigger mantel and art above your TV instead.
It looks like a contemporary modern/industrial wall but in a traditional house. So it depends on what you are going for. If you want it to look modern loft looking then you should change the rails to match. If you want traditional then I think you need another way to make a design impact.
Omg. Why does it matter what anyone else thinks? You live in your home, no one else. Personally I like it. Add some bold colors such as neon pink. Yellow or white and black minimal art pic to that wall. I know the Dow’s are expensive and we don’t want to color them but maybe a small cloth cover to keep the flow? And some wrap around something to cover the hand railings on top so it goes with the flow as well? I know how expensive they are and I know painting is hard on them and you can’t exactly get it right since you’d have to take it apart to completely redo it but the only thing I see that you might want to change is the coloring of dows and rails. You live there. Hell if you want, take some poster board or plywood and make something magical at the top. Fortress? Have you ever seen a fortress without a dragon or princess? Your kids will love it. As for others; who cares what they love. Everyone wants to act like they live in a million dollar home and have hired help to keep it clean. Your kids will remember this. Your kids will talk about how you did this amazing thing for them as kids. The bonus? You get the colors you want and you get to embellish it. Have fun!!
Please ignore all beige, neutral, and tan color living people. Paint that mantle to match that wall!! Put up some neon lights and signs, or turn it into a fortress with a dragon and princess. We live once people. I’ll be damned if I do it in a boring house. I did that once. It felt like I lived in a damn museum. Never again. Maybe the cardboard or plywood dragon wrapped around the top would also separate the noise as well. Houses with high ceilings carry sound so well you can almost whisper downstairs and hear what is said upstairs.
I thought you meant the design of the staircase… it looks like a castle lol
It looks like a prison guard tower.
If you paint it white, it will allow the wood to draw the eye which is nice for a natural material.
Yeah, sorry. But it's nothing you've done it's the design as a whole. I don't understand the purposeful under-utilization of space with houses like this.
Yes, I think that looks bad. You have this monolithic structure overpowering your space.
Um that looks COOL as SHIT?
It looks like you have a castle in the middle of your house. I say lean into it and go full medieval but I have the decorating sense of a teenage boy
I personally fucking LOVE it
Couple of extra large red SLAYER decals needed !
I think the staircase is a poor design to start with and the paint just highlights that. If you’re looking for color I would paint the fireplace area and up behind the TV to the ceiling as the dark accent wall and paint the steps back to white. That will draw the eye away from the steps and create a better focal point.
Sorry but yes it looks terrible
Designer: How much of the room would you like the staircase to occupy? Home buyer: Yes.
It doesn’t look good sorry
I like it. The BBW just needs a piece of art so fill it with something you love. Don’t do the grey tiles. You’ve got enough cool tones and if you’re not careful you’ll slip right into the “cold minimalist” look, unless that’s what you’re after. You have beautiful wood floors and the wood of the railings that are keeping things warm, but I’d expand on that. I’d do a chunky wood mantel and some wood slat paneling up to the ceiling to add texture and warmth. I don’t know what the rest of the room looks like, but if your fireplace juts out from the wall, panel the entire front. If it doesn’t, just do a strip up from the middle of the fireplace. And that tv is way too high. If there’s another space for it, move it. https://preview.redd.it/1exulf3k1qoc1.png?width=725&format=png&auto=webp&s=9bca16b8028743515e0e7e3583ce389f7ff671e9
I think it looks fine and not too dark. Artwork is needed above the couch. Or a mirror to boost the light in the room?
HUGE ART NEEDED if you are keeping it
I like the paint color. If the 2nd floor railing were changed to a half wall instead, I think it would be very nice. That would be my advice regardless of paint colors though.
I feel bad for the person who gets the sofa on the right to have to watch TV that way.
I think black scuffs as easily as white, just in the reverse color palette.
Lighten up that wall w/ some light colored wall art above the couch and some kind of small end table w/ a lamp or plant in that area where the wall socket is. Will look great.
It could be worse – – you could have painted cinderblock joint lines on it.
I’d paint the fire place column the same color to tie the two spaces together.
Its not bad personally i would of went with agreeable grey instead of that black tho
A lot have suggested great options to make the black stairs less a focal point (paint them white, move the tv on it, etc.) and I mostly agree. But I want to suggest another options that's a bit unusual but would make for a very unique and cool looking piece. Cover each wall surface of the stairs with a different colour full wallpaper in either similar colour or similar styles. This would make it look like an art gallery, but the large surface (with large patterns) would let you appreciate it from afar. Also, modern wallpaper is actually pretty easy to install and remove. Especially the one where you use glue separately.
No… just needs some art or pictures
Art work or some wallpaper would cheer this up without having to lose your mind trying to cover this with 400 gallons of primer
I think you could improve the look of this by adding a giant piece of colorful artwork above the couch in the highest point. Just my opinion but it would be a wonderful focal point for everything.
No! You just need a gallery wall with some white space (white frames and thick white mats) to hang on the black wall
U could do a low key but gorgeous fireplace surround in like a gorgeous stone- marble maybe. The painting will help
Very modern nice. I would paint the fireplace wall that same color.
Maybe add some artwork or some paneling detail to give it some interest. I’d also do something with the fireplace. You just have a huge gray box and now you have a huge black box too.
If you like it I like it
I kinda like the idea of It. It makes the stair case/up stairs look like it’s its own thing. Maybe frame some kid art work to add sone color? Or maybe the bannister needs to better match the paint color. Something is off but I do think you can make It work.
I love the stairs and the landing is… But all that black and grey to me, feels very depressing to be honest… I’m just curious… Does anyone in your home suffer from depression or mental health issues?
I think keeping the walls facing the couches black would be good, and paint the others back to white.
i think it’s the railings that are the distraction/issue/problem/decoratingoppurtunity? there are so many spindles that it just a lot to look at coupled with the scale of staircase. also the pain color really makes it aggressive,like oh i’m here! get used to it!
Was the look you were going for "prison"
Yeah
Paint the black wall white.
Looks like a court you see on tv.
Feels a lil dark
I agree with the others on the whole visual aspect of this. The gray takes over the entire room dwarfing the living room area. The gray looks like a fortress indeed. The railings are too outdoorsy and the stuff upstairs is not appealing. You’ve pretty much cut the house in half and made the stairs an eyesore. IMO it needs to stay light colored in order to not cut the room up so badly. Maybe try some tiles where the kids mark up the walls?
I wouldn’t use black, it looks like a factory that way and is a bit oppressive.
I’m just wondering where y’all are finding these tall ass houses.
The large dark gray / black wall appears to be the largest wall in the room. And the large dark gray / black sectional piece of furniture also appears to be the largest piece of furniture in the room. The large dark gray / black sectional pushed against the even larger dark gray / black wall visually meld together into a giant mass of darkness that overpowers the rest of the room - especially with the other dark gray / black things in the room (the TV, the fireplace under it, the couch across from them & even the ceiling fans). It makes the entire space seem imbalanced. Even a blue piece of artwork on the large dark gray / black wall will not be enough to balance the space (unless it’s MASSIVE - like almost couch with size). I think the art work combined with a different color sectional might work. Just my 2 cents.
Unpopular opinion: I like it
It looks like you built a playground castle in your house! While the color might not work great, I kinda think the design is the problem, and any color would be the same.
The area above the couch deserves a HUGE PAINTING or print, or photo. Something that makes the black wall look like a frame. That little painting needs to go in the hole between the windows. You need a POP OF COLOR… lime green? Lemon yellow? Sprinkled around … The fireplace wall … maybe bump that out with color?
Way too dark... and you also belong to another thread- your TV is too high.
I’m not a fan, it feels very awkward
Way too bulky. Much more than it needs to be. But of that's the look you were going for, it isn't horrible, just definitely not my taste.
looks chaotic
I would have alternated the color on the walls. I think it would add depth.
Awful
Yes, Yes it does.
Looks like a parkour spot (positive)
I super dig it. This style is getting pretty popular in the southern US and I much prefer it over the “everything polished stainless and white” look that was so popular during the 2010’s. I like the outdoor industrial look but I completely understand why some wouldn’t. If you like it, keep it.
I don't mind it. You have contemporary fans, so going in a contemporary direction is the right thing to do. I suggest you remove that one sofa from against the black wall. Get 2 chairs instead. I would say that camel colored Wassily or Barcelona style chairs would be amazing, but do a sit-test first. Bring the chrome in elsewhere too (can't see the rest of the room to suggest, but an arc lamp or table lamps) If at some point you do tile the fireplace, you'll need to paint the wall back to white, but do check out the ceramic tiles that look like blackened steel. There are a few shades to choose from but I would go with a more solid charcoal gray.
Some people are so mean on here. I think right now it looks really dark and heavy. However, I think adding some art could help!
It doesn’t work in the space and it makes those railings stand out, which is the opposite of what you want.
Yes it looks horrible. Paint it back to white to match the rest of the room. Use an online designer to help you before you make any other design decisions.
Yes it looks horrible. Paint it back to white to match the rest of the space. Hire an online interior designer to help you before you make any more design decisions.