I've always hated this staircase, as I think it's ugly and in desperate need of a makeover. The prior owners of the house maybe thought the same thing, as you can see their unfinished attempt at re-staining the railings. I'd like to just replace them entirely with something nicer, but I don't know what would be best in terms of cost and visual appeal. Also, I want to rip up the carpet and have hardwood instead, but I don't know what the steps look like under the carpet (and I'm afraid to look). Last, I want to swap out the boring white railing on the wall with something different, but again I don't know what would look best. Any ideas or suggestions would be appreciated!