11 Expert Tips For Adding Stair Runners To Your Home

The power of a good stair runner in a hallway or entry knows no limits. Find the right one and it can truly transform a staircase from something purely functional into a beautiful design statement and give you the perfect opportunity to showcase a bit of personality in what is often an overlooked area. 

They can add warmth, texture, and a sense of comfort underfoot while also being a wonderful way to introduce colour or pattern into a space. Whether you opt for bold prints or subtle tones, a runner can completely change the mood of a hallway, making the space feel more polished and inviting.

Few know better than how to work stair runners into your own space than the founder of handwoven bespoke rug brand Bombay Sprout and all-round rug expert, Zara Bollingbroke-Kent. From starting with a colour palette to finding the right print, read on for her golden rules for making stair runners work in your home…

Start with colour

When adding a stair runner, always consider your hallway and home’s overall style and colour scheme. Your stair runner shouldn’t just stand alone; it should harmonise with the rest of your interior. Think about the flow from one space to another and select a runner that complements, rather than competes with, the surrounding design. 

Think practically

Stairways are high-traffic areas, so you want something that can withstand wear and tear. Durable materials like wool, jute or a wool blend are great options, offering both comfort underfoot and long-lasting quality. It’s really important to remember that a stair runner should be both beautiful and functional; ensure you choose a material with a good grip to avoid slips. 

Work with the size of your staircase

When choosing a pattern, consider the scale of your staircase – a narrow or tightly winding staircase will benefit from a smaller, more subtle pattern, while a wider, grander staircase can handle bold designs. Don’t be afraid to use stripes or geometric patterns to elongate the stairs and create a sense of movement.

Borders can add drama and space

A border can be key in defining the edges of your stair runner, especially if you’re working with a material without colour such as natural jute or neutral colours. A contrasting border not only gives a polished finish but can also draw the eye along the stairs, enhancing the architectural features of the space. 

Choose your hardware wisely

The key to harmony between the hardware and a stair runner lies in the style. If you’re using a classic, patterned runner like a floral or damask, opt for more traditional metal finishes such as brushed brass or oil-rubbed bronze. These finishes echo the timeless appeal of the runner. For a more contemporary look, go for minimalist rods or brackets with cleaner, sleeker designs. Don’t be afraid to contrast metalware with the runner for a bold statement. It’s a great way to highlight both elements without them competing. 

Think of a runner as the thread that pulls everything together 

By choosing a runner that complements your existing decor, it can seamlessly connect the hallway with the other rooms, creating a cohesive flow in the house. Whether it picks up on colours, textures, or patterns from surrounding spaces, the runner has the ability to unify a design scheme, making the entire home feel more harmonious. It’s an elegant way to guide the eye and seamlessly link one area to the next. 

Don’t DIY

Always leave installation of a stair runner to the professional, they will ensure that the installation is done tightly to prevent any shifting or wrinkles. 

ZARA’S STAIR RUNNER TREND RECOMMENDATIONS…

1. Play with stripes

Bold geometric patterns and classic stripes are having a big moment in stair runners right now. Stripes, in particular, are timeless and help create a sense of movement up the stairs. They elongate the space and bring a clean, contemporary feel, especially when paired with neutral walls.

2. Look to nature
I’m seeing a shift towards earthy, grounding colours like soft terracottas, warm taupes, and natural greens from our clients at Bombay Sprout. These tones bring warmth and calm to stairways and complement the growing trend of organic, nature-inspired interiors. They’re subtle but impactful, creating a cosy yet sophisticated feel. 

3. Consider natural fabrics
Natural textures are also making a big comeback. Sisal and jute stair runners with intricate woven patterns like our beautiful Bombay Sprout x Laura Stephens collection are popular because they add both texture and durability. They offer a rustic charm while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic, especially when paired with white or neutral interiors. 

4. Go bold with botanicals

Botanical and floral prints are continuing to gain popularity too, particularly in softer pastel shades. These patterns add a gentle elegance and a touch of whimsy to a staircase, softening the hard edges and making the space feel more inviting. 

For more information on Bombay Sprout and to shop the full collection visit bombaysprout.com

SHOP THE STAIR RUNNER EDIT BELOW…

The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.