I was considering staining my new steps these two colors on your steps. Nice stairwell I would paint it first and see if that suites you.

What about the lighting in the stairwell is it sufficient?

can you put a skylight in-we are about to build a similar "enclosed" staircase, and have decided to do that, along with a huge window on the landing

These pics were taken close to night - the dining room (where I'm standing while taking these) is very bright during the day so it helps a little. There is NOT adequate lighting and the ceiling is so very high inside the staircase. Not sure a skylight would work - although it's a possibility! I had considered painting the risers but love the black and brown. I might be convinced to paint them - my hubby might not like the idea!! haha

I had exactly the same situation at one of my old houses. What I ended up doing is I kept the studs in the walls, opened up the dry wall, and I brought in a window person to custom make indoor windows between the studs (all spaced properly). Flooded the space with light and opened the view to the adjacent room. I think we used non-shatter glass for safety. I think you can probably do this on one of the walls. Do it on the wall that opens up to an interesting space with windows.