For me the first staircase did strike me as being a little too bright, but I think it's the vintage appearance of the staircase, I suppose I'd expect it to be a little darker, in an old house... The other staircase makes great use of pattern and light, Tendrils is wonderful too; and that landscape is beautifully done.
If #2 doesn't win, the judges want their heads examining!!! I really like #1 as well, but when played with different crops I liked it even more with the bit of wainscoting at the top removed.