Bloomingdale front steps -- open/metal vs. closed/brick -- what do YOU think ?

There have been some Bloomingdale rowhouse renovations that have included the conversion of the existing front steps -- brick steps that are "closed" and do not allow natural sunlight through -- to wrought iron steps that * are * open to natural sunlight and air.

What do YOU think ?

Here is an example:
                                            

Here is 1733 1st St NW with the existing front steps constructed of brick.

Here is the rowhouse next door -- 1735 1st Street NW -- that has been converted to two condominium units.  The front steps have been converted from brick to iron.