Expert: Joseph G. Swallow - 10/4/2011

Question
Want to remove the banister between living room and dining room.  The DR is "two steps down" from the LR; that is, about 15" lower.  City building code allows this since they say that if there is an open area between floors, and it is less than 30" difference, then no banister or separation is required for safety.  My question is if I do this, what is the best way to introduce these two room areas to one another so that it looks as though it flows?  Right now there is an oak wood "plank" between the two rooms at the edge of the higher level (living room) and it goes the length of the separation of the rooms.  The banister spindles (that would be removed)sit on top of this wood plank and right now the plank is 6.5" wide by 11.5' long.  I've thought of making the length of it into a sort of upholstered "bench" area where guests could sit at parties, etc., but I don't know about that.  Any suggestions?
Thanks so much,
Rose

Answer
Rose,

I've seen in similar circumstances where they split the 15" into two risers with a tread the full length of the step down.   They would run a hardwood tread cap along the top length, stained or painted riser, and a first tread to match the tread cap.  This kind of look brings the rooms together.

Is the upper DR area linoleum, hardwood floor, tile or carpet?  What is the flooring of the living room area?

Obviously if you e-mailed me a photo of the two areas I could come up with some confirmed ideas.  You can send that to joseph@westfiremfg.com.

Thank you!

Joseph