Post pics of your space and IMO you need a stair design done by a pro not your contractor , There are codes about stairs so that needs to be followed and the pics you posted are not helpful. I much prefer the glass but you need someone to do this right.

"We’re mid remodel and trying to figure out our stair design."

Your going to need an experienced stair builder in there right away before you get any further. Stairs are tricky and safety codes are very unforgiving. Unfortunately the stairs should have been planned before ever starting the remodel.

oh boy, not something you want to "ask a pro on the internet about" you need eyes on and spend the money on it. Your contractor should be well aware that this is not all about esthetics but more about not having to redo it. Code and safety come first here, get someone there eyes on with real solutions.