Forrest Glover Design

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Current Obsessions: Stair Runners

Image: Architectural Digest

The transformative power of stair runners can never be overestimated. If you desire to instill some color, texture, or simply infuse your home with a splash of your personality, look no further than stair runners. These elements, while functionally essential for safety and noise reduction, serve as an underutilized canvas for exhibiting your unique design style.

Stair runners are not just a fad – they have evolved into a defining trend, adding depth and creativity to what could have been an otherwise mundane staircase. Acting as visual connectors between different floors of your home, they imbue your staircase with a vibrant vitality and uniqueness that is bound to grab attention.

One of the most appealing aspects of stair runners is their versatility. Your design preferences may fluctuate over time, influenced by changing seasons, emerging trends, or personal evolution. The beauty of a stair runner lies in its ability to adapt and evolve along with you. Regardless of whether your home echoes an eclectic melody, radiates the rustic charm of a modern farmhouse, or exudes sleek contemporary elegance, stair runners offer a universal platform to express your creative design impulses.

Design by Leanne Ford

Pictured above is an exquisite example by the renowned designer, Leanne Ford. Commissioned by Domino.com, Ford leverages the staircase as an unconventional platform to make an artistic statement. Here, she transforms a standard staircase into a display of chic design flair that aligns with her personal style. Who said you need to invest in an expensive art piece when your staircase can serve as a dynamic, functional canvas?

Leanne Ford's artistic approach illustrates the potential of a staircase to become a focal point of interior design, rather than a mere architectural necessity. She masterfully repurposes an often overlooked space to create an element of intrigue, reinforcing the concept that every corner of a home has the potential to reflect one's unique aesthetic.

Design by Raquel Garcia Design

In another inspiring display, the design by Raquel Garcia, featured in Elle Decor, beautifully demonstrates how a painted stair runner can incorporate subtle minimalistic detailing to create a cohesive aesthetic. This approach seamlessly integrates the stair runner with the overall design of the space, resulting in an ensemble that is pleasing to the eye.

Incorporating stair runners can be an efficient way to revitalize your staircase without delving into extensive remodeling. Take for instance a recent project we undertook in Mexico, where we painted a royal blue runner on the staircase. This choice wasn't just about style; it was a practical solution for a vacation rental with high foot traffic, emphasizing that design and functionality can go hand in hand.

Design by Commune Design

Should you desire to inject a touch of bohemian charm or vintage nostalgia into your home, patchwork stair runners are a splendid choice. These captivating elements can set a distinctive tone for your interior style, serving as a teaser for what guests can expect within your abode.

Design by Studio LifeStyle

Patchwork stair runners, such as the one showcased above by Studio LifeStyle, beautifully highlight how this design element can align perfectly with both dark and light interiors. When you introduce such a powerful design feature, it becomes the centerpiece that requires minimal surrounding décor to shine. The key to successfully incorporating patchwork stair runners lies in carefully selecting patterns and colors that not only complement each other but also harmoniously align with the broader interior aesthetic.

In conclusion, stair runners are an excellent choice for homeowners who wish to blend style with practicality. They offer an affordable, versatile platform to inject creativity, texture, and personal touch into a home's design scheme. Whether it's experimenting with different colors, patterns, or textures, the potential of stair runners is limited only by the bounds of your imagination. So go ahead, transform that once overlooked staircase into a showcase of your unique style and watch it command attention.