Having a sisal or flat weave stair runner installed is a great way to add character and warmth to your staircase. We've put together the most popular stair runner trends seen in interiors right now but first, let's give you professional advice on everything that is involved when choosing a stair runner.
What is a Stair Runner:
A stair runner is a piece of carpet that doesn’t cover the entire width of the stair.
It’s usually installed over hardwood or painted stairs. Runners come in a huge variety of colours, patterns and styles and most designs can be produced in different widths to suit the width of your stairs.
Stair Runner Widths:
Regardless of which design of runner you choose, proportion is key to getting your runner right.
Stairs are typically 80cm - 90cm (31 - 35 inches) wide, so most runners are set at a 70cm (27 inches) width. However, many clients have narrower stairs going to the basement or loft, in which case you can have your runner produced in a narrower width. Aim to have at least 10cm’s (4 inches) on each side of the runner, it creates a feeling a grandeur to your staircase. Leaving too small of a gap either side will make the runner feel more like a wall to wall broadloom carpet and leaving a wider gap 15cm - 20cm ( 6 - 8 inches) will make the stair runner feel too cramped. It all depends on the width of your stairs, but usually between 8cm - 12cm (3 - 5 inches) gap on either side is the sweet spot.
Sisal Stair Runners
What is Sisal:
Sisal is derived from an agave sisalana plant. It is valued for cordage because of its strength, durability and ability to stretch. The higher-grade fibre is converted into yarns for the carpet industry. Sisal carpets are versatile and hardwearing and are ideal for living rooms, halls and as stair carpet. Choose from textured sisals or fine woven sisals which are intricate and tactile.
Styles of Sisal:
Stair runners produced in sisal is a trend that has caught on and continues to be a brilliant option for clients. With manufactures regularly coming out with new designs and colours, you are spoilt for choice. Opting for a herringbone pattern is a personal favourite of mine, as the patten creates texture and interest. Go for a large bouclé (pronounced book-lay) 😉 for a relaxed, rustic feel or a small bouclé for a chic, contemporary look.
I’ve noticed that manufactures are starting to produce sisal in metallic tones, such as silver and copper, this gives a client a lot more interior choices rather than the standard natural colour of sisal.
How Sisal Runners Are Made:
A carpet runner such as sisal, will be cut from a roll of carpet to make the stair runner, as opposed to a flat weave runner which is produced on a narrow loom. You can have a stair runner produced in this manner from any type of carpet such as wool or viscose.
