Are the room level? If so I would remove it. I have something similar I would love to remove some day. You could always use a sofa table if you desires a little division.

I have the same room, same dilemma. I think I need to keep it for safety because like you, there is a chair backing up to the railing.

Is it just 1 step down? It seems the railing is needed to keep people from accidentally tumbling off that step.

I would think the railing is important for safety reasons but since you'll be redoing the kitchen and den, would you consider replacing the railing with something different like iron? Might be a nice change and could create interest.

The rooms are not level. There are 2 steps down to go into the family room. We too, see the need to keep the railing for safety reasons, but on the other hand find that the it really dates the room.

Khillen, we both have the exact same railing. The only difference is that there is an opening in yours, whereas ours is wall to wall.

Thanks everyone, for taking the time to answer!

If you like it open, you may want to put in a glass railing. A low bookshelf for storage with seating above would probably be my choice. You will still need a railing like a low back on the bookshelves & lotsa pillows. Could add a bookshelf above the seating like in attached photo.

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share the end result of what we did with you. We added a small wall! Shorter than the railing and it modernizes the room. We put a granite top on it ( which matches our kitchen granite). We love it!

Thanks for your input.

Nathalie

You would end something. Depending on your style. Could go stainless and glass for a airy look or rod iron in black. Cable in stainless is a contemporary look. Google different looks.

Lease lose the verticals on slider.

Sorry should have noticed it was from Jan. . You did a great job. Looks so much updated.

We had the same sort of separation, but it was a half wall between the kitchen and fam room, and it had a hideous brass railing. So we tore it out and had this bar area created. We absolutely love it!

Sorry, just saw your renovation. It looks great!

We had a railing ( not as wide) that we replaced with bookshelf/wine rack room divider. Only one step down to family room.
I will try and attach before and after photos

I would keep the railing.

natoukb, when i first seen the original railing my knee jerk reaction was that railing was to high...i like the pony wall you did

TO: Natalie & Nancy4Taylor: You both did an excellent job! I have the same EXACT problem. I hate, hate my railing. It is not only outdated but it blocks the family room and makes my home feel choppy. I hate it so much that I have thought about moving again (we just bought the house in March) but we love the neighborhood, so we stay! I really appreciate you sharing your before and after pics. I will send them to the kitchen designer we are working for. Thanks again!!

I love the little wall you put up. we're thinking of doing the same. can you tell me the height?