METAL DECKING

The deck in the back has been torn out so we're thinking about how we want to replace it and put a matching deck on the East side as well. After researching wood deck options we are more interested in aluminum planking like the one pictured below. 

OPEN STAIRCASE

We want the stairs from the basement to the first level and then from the first level to the second to be open and modern. Here are some examples and inspirations.

Though these aren't open-backed, I do like the side profile of these and they could be constructed.

I particularly like the one brace down the center of these stairs.

These may be the style we want for the stairs to the cupola 

These stairs appear to be braced in the walls and look like they are floating. I like this look, too.

These are a the ones available as a kit but are grossly overpriced

Just discovered this amazing design by Francesco Librizzi, which is as much a sculpture as it is a staircase/ladder. It's an extremely high priced item from Italy but perhaps we could find local iron workers who could create something similar.