Covering Plaster walls

Hello everyone, I am new here.

I need help.

My husband and I just purchased our first home and we knew it needed some work when we bought it. The problem is that the previous owners decided to plaster over the concrete walls in the basement. Does anyone have any ideas of what and how to cover up this eye sore. The plaster is uneven in places and it's just ugly.

Another problem is the green stairs, yes GREEN!! they painted the steps leading to the basement a horrible green color and we can't get it off to see the wood underneath. Anyone have any ideas for either of these problems? Thanks

If you live in a cold climate take this time to frame the wall and insulate and cover with drywall, it will increase the value of the house as well save you money in the long run
As for the steps what type of wood are you trying to save I flip houses for a living and if it was not oak I would replace steps or cap them