Stairway to Heaven

We have done just about nothing to the house in the past month, aside from the constantly cleaning and sweeping that comes along with having a ridiculously furry dog and dark hardwood floors.  Recently we have been toying with the idea of ripping down the wall that currently closes off our staircase to the livingroom.  We can see that it used to be all opened up but at some point the previous owner put up a wall that blocked it off.  I dont even know if this is possible and of course we would need to rearrange some furniture, but it could definitely happen and I dont think it would be much work.  Here are some photos that are currently inspiring me to rip down the wall and enjoy our staircase in all its beauty...

And my personal favorite (and one of my all time favorites):

Everything about this above staircase is just perfect.  The natural wood, the adorable little chair, the large hutch in the corner, the awesome mirror mural on the sides and ceiling and of course that fabulous pendant light hanging above.