Fully carpeted stairs are generally considered outdated by designers, who now prefer hardwood stairs with runners for a more modern, cleaner look. While wall-to-wall carpet is falling out of fashion, carpet runners or plush, high-quality carpeting can still be stylish and functional, particularly for safety and sound reduction.

Is carpet on stairs outdated?

There was a time when carpeting every square inch of your home, including the stairs, was all the rage. These days, however, many homeowners are shying away from this style in favor of hardwood stairs or even tile.

What is the trend in stair carpet in 2025?

“A big trend is wool stair runners as they're chic and stylish with a natural, in-built resilience in the fibres, making them perfect for these high traffic areas.” “Cormar's Pimlico range would be a great choice for stairways as it's suitable for extra heavy domestic use and comes with a 10-year wear warranty.

How to make carpeted stairs look modern?

Go For Different Patterns To Create Interest

From geometric to floral designs, there is a wide selection of patterns that will combine style and practicality for a unique look. Incorporating stripes or plaids into your stair carpet can also lead to a captivating visual effect.

What color carpets are in for 2025?

Deep and moody carpet colours are on the rise. Tones of sapphire blue, and rich burgundy or deep, smoky grey such as Mineral Grey shown here from our Primo Tweeds range, create a dramatic backdrop, enhancing the ambiance of any room.

How To Convert Carpeted Stairs to Hardwood | Beyond The Basics

What are the staircase trends for 2026?

The biggest staircase trend for 2026 will be thoughtful design. Homeowners will want staircases that feel lighter, warmer and more personal, without unnecessary complexity. By choosing adaptable materials such as oak, black metal and glass, and focusing on refurbishment rather than replacement.

Is it safe to have no carpet on stairs?

Enhancing Safety

Children, especially, are prone to falls, making it crucial to mitigate hazards. Uncovered stairs are more prone to be slippery, increasing the risk of falls. While no measure can eliminate all risks, installing a carpet runner on stairs significantly lowers this danger.

What is the 27 stair rule?

The "27 Rule" for stairs has two common meanings: one is a design guideline where the riser height plus tread depth should equal 27 inches, balancing step height and depth for comfort and safety. The other, often for narrower stairs, is the 27-inch minimum clear width between handrails for safe passage, ensuring enough space for a person. A related formula for comfort is 2xRiser + Tread = 25-27 inches, aiming for a natural stride.

Are carpet stair treads tacky?

Are stair treads tacky? The answer depends on quality—while low-end options can look outdated, carpet stair treads in premium materials and modern designs enhance both safety and elegance.

Is carpet totally out of style?

Carpets may not be out of style, but that doesn't mean new trends don't come and go with the times. Here are three carpet trends that may be perfect for your home. A neutral or earthy palette can give you a great baseline to explore with additional palettes, furniture and features.

Is it better to have wood or carpet stairs?

Carpets tend to be a safer option than bare wood, especially for those who are more susceptible to falls, like children and older people. The textured surface of carpets makes them less slippery and provides extra cushioning in case of accidents.

Do people still put carpet on stairs?

Designers dislike carpeted stairs, favoring more stylish options that offer the same safety benefits. For traction, consider stair runners, anti-slip treatments, or scored treads instead of full carpet. If keeping carpet, refresh it and add interest with standout wall treatments like wallpaper.

What are the staircase ideas for 2025?

What are the most popular staircase styles for 2025? In 2025, feature staircases are leading the way, with floating designs, open tread layouts, and glass balustrade styles being the most in demand. These designs are popular because they feel light, architectural, and custom-built to suit modern interiors.

What is the 7 11 rule for stairs?

The "7-11 rule" for steps is a common guideline in construction recommending a 7-inch riser (vertical height) and an 11-inch tread (horizontal depth) for comfortable and safe stairs, often falling within building code limits (IBC/ADA) for a slope of around 30-37 degrees, though exact codes vary. It balances the need for steps to not be too steep (high riser) or too shallow (long tread), ensuring consistent dimensions for safety and accessibility. 

What are common stair carpeting mistakes?

Common mistakes to avoid during stair carpet installation

Using low-quality carpet that wears quickly in high-traffic areas. Skipping padding, which reduces comfort and lifespan. Poor measurements leading to mismatched patterns or loose edges. Not securing tack strips correctly, which can create safety hazards.

What can I have on my stairs instead of carpet?

When considering alternatives to carpet on stairs, you have a variety of options to choose from, including hardwood or laminate flooring, vinyl flooring, tile flooring, and carpet tiles. Each type of material offers unique benefits and aesthetics to enhance the look and feel of your staircase.

What color carpet sells a house?

Neutral Carpets Sell Homes Faster: Most homebuyers prefer neutral shades because they create a blank canvas. If you're planning to sell in the next few years, opting for beige, light gray, or taupe is a smart investment.

Is berber carpet out of style in 2025?

Yes, Berber carpet is still stylish for 2025, especially modernized versions with updated neutral colors (grays, taupes) and more intricate fleck patterns, offering timeless durability for high-traffic areas while blending function with contemporary design. While traditional creams might be less trendy, updated Berber offers subtle textures and a practical, grounded look, often appearing in "cut and loop" styles that add depth and fit current home decor.
 

What color carpets are in for 2026?

What are the predicted carpet colour trends for 2026? Warm tones are making a comeback, with honey, caramel, and chestnut shades becoming popular choices. These earthy hues create a cosy atmosphere and are better at hiding everyday wear compared to cooler tones.

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