Decorating and Design - Rails in entryway

I live in a 1974 bi-level home, I really hate the floor plan but what can I do. My problem is as you walk in the front door there is a very small entryway, stairs go down to the family rm and up to the living rm kitchen and dining area. The living rm is open to the entry and blocked off by a black rail with a wooden banister, I would really like to replace the rails with nice wooden spindle type rails but I can't swing that right now. So my question is does anyone have any ideas about a paint treatment? The overall colors of my living room are gray carpet gray,blue and mauve furniture, light wood tones. I would like some kind of mottled finish so it won't show chips and dirt so much (I have young,messy children) Thanks

Hi. I recommend you sponge paint!!!! You can do soooo much for little money and choose colors that hide alot. Touch up's are easy because... hay, it's not suppose to look one color. Just have fun with it!