I have the same type of chandelier, I'm replacing.

paint it black along with banister oak and stairs!

jendlr-I am planning to either paint the oak banister black or stain it a darker color.

You could go with something more transitional (see attached-click to open large photo). It would look great in your space.

The picture you attached puts me in mind of staged wedding photos at banquet halls. All the college friends cascade down the stairs while the bride attempts to balance herself on a chair in the midst of the madness. Somewhere in that sea of faces is the groom wondering why the heck he agreed to this reception in the first place. Most of the groomsmen (OK, and some of the ladies) are raising red Solo cups as a salute to the photographer.

Replace it with something updated and more contemporary and subtle. There is tremendous weight in that chandelier--something that seems lighter is probably a good idea too.

Omg, that is so funny...I will definitely be replacing it and modernizing that space ASAP!

HI -- Yes ,replace , shiny brass is out . Have a look at the fixtures at Restorationhardware.com and also go to some of the lighting stores , there is so much to choose from . If you like the style of the fixture , a lighting shop may be able to rework or refinish the shiny brass . Maybe they could make it an antiqued gold finish that is very in right now or it could be replated to a chrome ,also very in . This would all depend on the cost and if you want to do it or go for a new fixture.

Go into some lighting stores before settling for Restoration Hardware's offerings. They will have so much more to choose from.

Hello,

We think that this chandelier would look great if you are looking to update, but still stay true to the style! Here is the direct link below:


http://www.wegotlites.net/product.asp?itemid=25434

Let us know if you have any questions!

-WeGotLites

It looks a little formal with the oak trim. Go with a more transitional look

Finally changed the light fixture and painted the banister black. Thinking now of painting the front of the steps black but not sure yet? What do you think?

I love the painted banister, good job. Not sure which direction you love, but here is a pic of black risers for inspiration.


And I actually like it, not sure how scuff marks show up on the black if durability is an issue for you.