Stair Runners, Yea or Nay?

Isn’t it just like me to announce the blog is back and then not blog?  I’m sure those who know me well are not the least bit surprised.  Ha!

I’ve just been working on the backend to get my RSS subscription link switched over to Feedburner.  I think I’ve figured it out, so if you aren’t already subscribed, please join here.  I’d love to have you!

Now, back on topic.  I’ve been refinishing my stairway because it’s desperately in need of an update.  I posted the pic above to Instagram a few weeks ago.  I chose to stain the treads using a black stain & poly combo.  Since these treads aren’t in the best condition, I honestly think this is the best route.  It allows the natural grain of the wood to still show through slightly, while masking any unsightly dings & dents.  I’ve since finished all the staining, now I’m moving on to the risers this week. For the risers, I’ll be painting those white, along with the balusters.  And the top railing will be stained black, as well.  In the pic above, the railing and every other tread had only received one coat of stain.  I’m going for a look similar to these inspiration pics I pulled up on Pinterest.

This one is forever a classic and I will always love the contrast of the black & white runner.  I plan to go with something similar using the Dash & Albert Diamond runner in black.  I’ve gone back & forth between choosing a different color, picking something more neutral like a plain sisal, or using something with a less prominent pattern.  But this is where my heart is, so it would be my choice IF I decide to definitely go with the runner.  That’s where the post title comes in: Should I or shouldn’t I?  Would you or wouldn’t you?

I would love to hear more opinions on whether stair runners are necessary, functional, family friendly, or just plain stupid.  What say you?!