Hi, Nancy--

I think you and Beverly are thinking the same thing! And in my book, it's a great call. From all angles, we'll more readily see greater detail in your scrollwork, and a fair bit of your trim white in the mix will help highlight the contrast between dark treads, posts and rail, with white risers and skirtboards on balance. As is, we lose some of the impact and it goes overwhelmingly dark - even in the bright light as photographed. Should be gorgeous - cheers!

do the risers and then reassess. white risers make a staircase much easier to navigate in low light.

White risers, yes.

Love the pup!

Very nice call and will enhance your stairway too!

It will look beautiful. Be aware that white risers are a magnet for black smudges from shoes. The toes hit the back and leave marks. If you don't mind the cleaning and touching up it is a very nice look.

It looks like your Puppy is asking our opinion:)) I like the white risers idea but I also like a nice runner without painting anything .

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Even though I posted the painted riser, I would install carpet on the steps. Bare steps scare me a bit and I know it would be easier for my dog.

The tiger print carpet on the stairs looks smashing!

Light colored risers worry me too...the toe kicks and smudges.

I like it as is, unpainted, and I LOVE the last carpet-looks like snow leopard-BeverlyFla posted.

Love your curved staircase!

I’m trying to make this decision for myself too. We were just quoted $4500 to restrain our stairs. Ouch.

What's a good white to paint the risers? Do I match the trim?

Yes, match the trim color and sheen.

And definitely add a runner--it will be safer and prevent scuff marks on the risers.

A nice elegant stair runner, but no painting, please.

I vote for stair runner and no paint. White risers will show dark markings from shoes unless you have a no shoes in the house policy.

I like the drama of the current dark staircase, but a fabulous rug would take it over the top!