If you mean change the appearance of a staircase, you could start with the opposite of what you have already, so a carpeted stairway can be uncovered and the wood brought up to a shine. If its wood, put on a carpet runner. If its wood stain you can paint it and if it is painted you may be able to strip and sand it down and then stain it. So many choices! The bannister can be changed, you can decorate or simply repaint the stairway. I hope this is your question Douglas!!!
Here is a link to what other Hometalker's have done. Perhaps one of these will inspire you - http://www.hometalk.com/search/posts?filter=remodel%20staircase - good luck!
If you mean change the appearance of a staircase, you could start with the opposite of what you have already, so a carpeted stairway can be uncovered and the wood brought up to a shine. If its wood, put on a carpet runner. If its wood stain you can paint it and if it is painted you may be able to strip and sand it down and then stain it. So many choices! The bannister can be changed, you can decorate or simply repaint the stairway. I hope this is your question Douglas!!!