That is bizarre and just looks like the contractor read the blue prints wrong, I would have a carpenter come in and remake it.

I actually see it as a handy drop spot for keys and other items that you might wish to quickly grab on your way up or down the stairs. I might look into how to make it more functional in that light, perhaps adding a built-in with cubbies, hooks, etc.

If you don't need it as a drop off zone, how about just a large plant (or whatever size will appropriately fit the space)?

I think I’d have the left stairs removed. Could you build a tiny closet?

I kind of like it. I have no idea what I'd put there but I'm come up with something decorative.

If you don't like it, littlebug's idea of closing it in to make a closet, or maybe built in shelves, is a great idea too.

I think there is a closet to the left...imagine how much bigger it could be!!

I like it! A little lamp table or small car with a lamp, a perfect spot for any kind of vignette.

What bothers me is the flooring change in the middle of it.

how would you remove it? there's no ceiling above so closing it up to become a closet would be odd.

its odd that the stairs go up half way