SFGate

soberg To me, the simplest and best is just to do nothing with it and leave it as empty space.

Gabberts Design Studio You could custom build some drawers, search in the photo area of Houzz...there are a lot of great solutions

LizaJane I would close it in and use for storage or bookshelves. Hard to tell from photo.

DIAspoton build in bookshelves foe books or line with attractive baskets for storage

ASVInteriors From your image it looks as if both sides of your staircase are open. Can you consider closing up the left bannister with a wall and a door in front (to the left of the stairs). On the other side close the wall. Now you have a storage room.

trinity_12_12 Thank you everyone for your comments! soberg and J have made me see this space in a different light and instead of 'wasted' it now feels uncluttered and airy :-) so I think I might just leave it as is. @ J, it is an actual photo of the space. Thanks again everyone for your input!

Bonnie I do like the idea of leaving it empty and enjoying the light airy feeling. On the other hand, if you have small children you could close it in and make a playspace... I have seen pictures on Houzz for this idea.

decoenthusiaste I think I'd remove the mirror because it is just increasing the effect of all the bannister! Have you considered color blocking the area? Can't see the rest of your space but some people love color, and even several shades of a neutral color can add interest to the blocks of walls. It can be funky or subtle

violinist3713 You can also build a mini built in office to maximize you office space if you're lacking

Carolyn C I'm with leaving it empty below, but here's a view of what it will look like if you redo it in wood. It changes the look dramatically. I didn't do it all as it's a lot of work, but this will help you see if in a different light.

trinity_12_12 Wow! First time I've posted and I'm thrilled with the response! @ Carolyn C, would never have thought of re-doing in wood but what a dramatic change :-) It would create a real feature of the stairs. Love it! @ Bonnie, have a 6 month old grandson so love your idea too. This is my vision, leave it open and colour block as per decoenthusiaste to make a lovely play area for my grandson. Loving this site and all it's creative members :-)