The Perfect Stair Runner
Well hello ya’ll! I hope this post finds you enjoying the sunshine and slightly cooler weather we’ve been experiencing here in central VA this week. As for me, I find myself in search of the ever elusive, perfect stair runner. Chances are, if you have a two story home, the staircase is one of the first things you see upon entering through the front door. Therefore, the impact potential of a stair runner is huge! Currently, my main stairwell is carpeted with a beige “runner,” that is an extension of the upstairs carpet (how big was this original piece of carpet??). Needless to say, I’d like to change it. One thing my current runner does have going for it…it’s neutral! Versatile, clean (mostly), and chic…can you guess which runners I’ll be featuring today? Spoiler alert: they’re all neutral, but with an edge…an animal print or chevron pattern edge. I’m in love.
Worth noting: measure your existing runner, if you have one, or consult your carpet installer as to the width/length you will need. Various manufacturers produce various sizes…and as most of these runners are a special order, it’s best not to have to worry with the hassle of trying to return! For my staircase, I’ll be looking for about 30” in width, to accommodate the removal of the existing 29” runner and cover up any tack holes, etc. it has left on our wooden treads.
Speaking of my main stairwell, here’s a shot of the before, in all it’s 1989 glory:
Is it awful? No. Could it be better? Yes. I’m a firm believer in small, thoughtful changes that can make a huge impact. As I was not in love with the banister color, I opted to repaint the spindles in a fresh coat of white, while giving the railings a refresh in Benjamin Moore Jet Black with a high gloss advance finish. To achieve this look, I first primed the railings with my fav, Bullseye 1 2 3 Primer. I then applied two coats of the Benjamin Moore Jet Black in high gloss advance. Boom! Instant refresh!
Once I make a decision on the runner, we’ll eventually be ordering and installing…which runner is your favorite? Herringbone, chevron, or animal print? Leave a comment and let me know!