Select art for the wall of the staircase and then illuminate it with a single picture light. See below. or a set of two or three library lights mounted above the art. See pics below.

If you select a hanging light in the staircase, it won't hang down very far. See diagram below.

Beverly. I was thinking about doing a light like above. What type of dining table light and pendants would you hang with it. Thanks.

West Elm I would select a black finish over the staircase. What you decide to do in the kitchen and dining room is your call.

I like these bubble glass pendants and think they could be used in the kitchen and the chandelier version in the dining area.