from the pics it appears as if the fixture itself is too small.

would something this size work better?

what kind of remodeling are you doing? otherwise, we don't know what kind of lights to suggest

I would go bigger and hang higher. Current light is too small.

Beth, The fixture is definitely too small. But, it cannot be larger unless it is hung higher... It will be too close to the stairs. I’m asking if the height is appropriate, or if I can hang it higher to go larger.

yes, you may hang it higher to go larger.

We are currently building a new home with 24 ft ceilings in the kitchen, it has been so hard to find lights that are long enough without splicing the wires for extra length. Take a look at Feiss brand fixtures, most come with 180" cord and you can buy the proper chain length from any lighting store if needed. AllModern is a site that has a search by hanging length which is great as well.

I have read that the ideal width will be the dimensions of the room added together, example a 15 x 15 room would be best fit with a 30" wide fixture. There are other theories on this as well but this is the simplest.