Our installations · Stair runners

Herringbone Carpet Runner with Contrasting Taped Edges

A carefully fitted stair runner can become the focal point of a hallway. For this installation, we fitted a herringbone-patterned carpet runner with contrasting dark taped edges, complementing the painted staircase and geometric balustrade.

The completed staircase, with the painted steps visible on both sides.

A patterned runner framed by dark tape

The light and dark herringbone pattern gives the carpet texture and movement. A solid dark taped border defines each side of the runner and ties it into the surrounding painted woodwork. Leaving part of each step exposed keeps the shape of the staircase visible, while the carpet introduces a softer finish through the centre.

The close-up photograph shows how the plain tape frames the small-scale pattern. It is a detail that makes a noticeable difference both from the hallway and when walking up the stairs.

A close-up of the herringbone carpet and dark taped border.

Following the shape of the staircase

This staircase includes a wider base and turning steps around a newel post. The runner follows these changes in shape, with the taped edge tracing the turn and the detail around the post. The photographs from above show how the patterned carpet carries through the different sections.

For a runner like this, planning the width, the visible margin of painted stair and the treatment of the turns is an important part of achieving a balanced finish. These details are considered together, rather than treating every step as an identical rectangle.

The runner follows the turning steps, with a dark border around the newel post.

Herringbone pattern and contrasting tape on the stair turn.

Looking down the staircase at the shaped runner and taped edges.

A view of the runner across the wider steps at the foot of the staircase.

Choosing your own taped stair runner

A contrasting tape creates a defined border, as seen here. A closer colour match can give a more subtle effect. When choosing a runner, it helps to compare the carpet and edging alongside your staircase paint, hallway flooring and lighting.

We can talk through carpet suitability for stairs, available edging options and how a runner could work with your staircase. Bring along photographs of your stairs and the look you have in mind, then speak to our team about a measuring appointment and quotation.

Stair runners from Midland Carpets & Flooring

Based in Nuneaton, we help customers in Hinckley, Bedworth and the surrounding areas choose carpets and flooring for their homes. Explore our carpet options or browse our work gallery for more installation ideas.

Thinking about a taped stair runner? Call 02476 384852 or contact our showroom to discuss your staircase.

Ask about a stair runner