Bespoke Sisal Herringbone Stair Runner Installation in Barnes, Richmond upon Thames
When Marco and Mary purchased their new home in Barnes, they began a luxury renovation, choosing elegant laminate flooring for the rooms. They wanted the staircase to have a similarly refined finish, but with the natural texture and character of sisal.
We helped them select Panama sisal carpet, with matching-colour whipping around the edges to create a coordinated stair runner.
The staircase presented an interesting installation challenge. It comprised two flights, three platforms, six winders and 20 steps. Rather than using wall-to-wall carpet, the chosen design would leave part of the staircase visible on either side, creating a more tailored appearance.
Project at a Glance
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Location | Barnes, Richmond upon Thames |
| Clients | Marco and Mary |
| Carpet | Panama sisal |
| Design | Herringbone |
| Edge finish | Matching-colour whipping |
| Staircase | Two flights, three platforms, six winders and 20 steps |
| Gripper | Short-pin gripper |
| Underlay | Power Stairs |
| Runner border | Approximately 10cm on each side |
Getting the staircase ready
The installation began with fitting the gripper rods along the staircase.
We selected short-pin grippers because sisal is a relatively thin carpet construction. Using standard grippers with longer pins can increase the risk of pins protruding through the carpet, so choosing an appropriate pin length is an important part of preparing the stairs.
Next, Power Stairs underlay was fitted to provide the necessary cushioning beneath the runner.
With the staircase prepared, the team could move on to the main installation.
Creating the herringbone runner
One of the defining features of this project was the decision to leave approximately 10cm of exposed staircase on either side of the runner.
This gives the carpet a framed appearance rather than making it look like a fully carpeted staircase. Achieving an even border required careful positioning throughout both flights and the intermediate platforms.
The six winders needed particular attention. Unlike straight steps, their changing angles mean that each section must be measured and fitted carefully to follow the shape of the staircase.
The Panama sisal was laid with the herringbone design running consistently along the staircase. The matching whipped edges completed the look, giving the runner a neat, coordinated finish.
The finished result
Once the fitting was complete, the staircase was thoroughly cleaned and the installation checked.
The natural texture of Panama sisal introduced a different material to the home's existing laminate flooring, while the herringbone design and matching edge finish gave the staircase its own character.
The result was a bespoke stair runner that complemented the wider renovation without overpowering the interior.
Sisal stair runner installation in Barnes and Richmond upon Thames
Staircases with winders, platforms and multiple flights require more than straightforward carpet fitting. Accurate measurements, suitable grippers, appropriate underlay and a carefully planned runner layout all contribute to a successful installation.
EXEN Flooring supplies and installs carpet stair runners across London and surrounding areas, helping homeowners choose finishes that suit their property and interior design.
If you are considering a bespoke sisal or herringbone stair runner in Barnes, Richmond upon Thames or elsewhere in London, contact EXEN Flooring to discuss your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sisal stair runner?
A sisal stair runner is a strip of carpet fitted along the centre of a staircase, leaving some of the original stair surface visible on either side. It offers a natural, textured alternative to fully carpeted stairs.
Can sisal carpet be used for a herringbone stair runner?
Yes. Sisal carpet can be used to create a herringbone-style stair runner, provided the selected carpet is suitable for the intended application and is fitted appropriately.
Why use short-pin grippers for sisal carpet?
Sisal is relatively thin compared with many conventional carpet types. Short-pin grippers can help secure the carpet while reducing the risk of pins protruding through its surface.
What is whipped carpet edging?
Whipping is a stitched finish applied around carpet edges. It prevents the edges from being left exposed and allows a border colour to be chosen to complement the carpet.
How wide should a stair runner be?
The ideal width depends on the staircase dimensions and the desired appearance. For this Barnes project, approximately 10cm was left visible on each side of the runner.
Does EXEN Flooring install stair runners in Barnes?
EXEN Flooring provides carpet and stair runner installation across London and surrounding areas. We can help with carpet selection, runner design and professional fitting.