Hmm its hard to say, would a cabinet there impede traffic ? To be honest I would stick with the plant..

What's the overall size and can you take a picture from further out? to better see traffic flow?

It's exactly 36cms wide. I guess it would get in the way of traffic. We did think of painting a bedside unit and putting it there with some pictures above.

We did try this look, but it didn't feel right.

I would much prefer to see some shelving on that wall, they would be more impactful and at eye level so you could have pictures and actually see them. You can also have nice baskets that will help you corral all of those things that gather at the bottom of the stairs to be taken up. I dont think a unit will work or give you the impact you are looking for.

Thanks Monica