I am a fan of black as a disappearing colour! If the tha bannisters were painted black the Victorian look of cast iron would fit. The walls are too pale , would you consider a dark green( FB Green Smoke) under the rail, next to the carpet, and a much lighter version above( FB Light Blue or Pale Powder). Not really sure of the shade of green in the carpet, it might be more FB Oval Room. I am fond of the Pugin look but realise it is powerful and invariably used with very dark paints. We changed our ginger brown stairs, over 3 storeys to white. 13 years later the effort was not only worth it but the pain has subsided too!

Choose something that goes with the bedroom carpets. Personally I like I similar colour throughout the house for continuity. I would choose a neutral- perhaps a warm grey

It's impossible to tell from a photograph. I think it's fine. I do recommend 3 things - View the paint outside, or at least in natural light - View the color next to other taupe paint sample squares... to make sure there's no pink or green cast. - Make sure it is fine with adjacent rooms - for "flow". I hope this is helpful?

I want to make a peace garden to fit with my Holistic health Clinic and I would like some ideas please. Also, I have a very dark hallway which requires the light on constantly with one bedroom not having access to natural light.