20 design ideas for stylish stair runners
A stair runner fulfils a number of functions: it can cover a staircase that isn't in the best condition, it can protect against wear and tear on the treads, or provide traction on slippery surfaces. And of course, a runner can be a stylish decorative choice, most often associated with traditional houses, but perfectly capable of holding its own in a contemporary scheme. Sophie Cooney, the founder of her eponymous contemporary, kilim-inspired stair runner company, says the staircase is a prime spot for colour and pattern. “The staircase is the main artery of the home,” she says. “Injecting it with colour and character will pump life and joy throughout.”
There are various considerations when designing your staircase runner, including the kind of edging you want. Options include whipping (like an over-stitch), which provides a small piping around down the edge of the runner. You can also chose to fold the edges under (if the material allows) which gives a neat, infinity edge with no border. Binding your runner with tape creates a traditional English look, with a wide cotton edging that can either contrast or compliment the runner itself. You could also explore having a plain runner with a patterned taping. There are plenty of options out there, all you need now is inspiration.
Read on to explore the best examples of runners from our archive, whether you're looking for an understated, practical jute runner or an eye-catching patterned version.






















