Practical as well as decorative, runner carpets can be a game-changer in your home. But what is a runner carpet, and how does it fit into your space? In our runner carpet guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know – from the benefits of floor runners to placement ideas. Whether you’re looking to complete your kitchen or add a welcoming note to your hallway, read on to make the perfect choice.
What is a Runner Carpet?
A runner carpet is a long, narrow carpet, with a length that’s much greater than its width. Floor runners can come in a variety of different lengths, but are defined by their proportions. This type of carpet is designed to fit into spaces that can’t accommodate a standard rectangular carpet, such as hallways or corridors.
Benefits of Runner Carpets
While runner carpets offer plenty of aesthetic appeal, they also provide practical benefits. Here’s why a runner carpet can enhance any style of home:
• Protects your flooring: Wood, tile or laminate, runner carpets can protect your flooring from heavy foot traffic and general wear and tear.
• Comfort underfoot: Runner carpets add a warm, cosy feel to your interior.
• Noise reduction: Runner carpets help to absorb sound, so they’re a great addition to busy areas such as hallways.
• Safety: Runner carpets create a textured surface to help prevent slipping.
• Style: Let’s not forget the visual benefits of runner carpets. They add colour and personality to your space, and can bring an awkward corner to life.
Types of Runner Carpets
Runner carpet definitions are simply about their long, narrow shape. Within this, there’s a wide variety of runner carpet sizes, styles and materials. In terms of style, you can choose between bold modern runner carpets, versatile neutrals, and traditional styles with intentional fading for a vintage look. Popular materials include wool-blend runners for warmth and durability, as well as synthetics designed to withstand heavy foot traffic. Low-pile carpets are perfect for busy areas such as entryways, while hand-finished carpets will lend a luxe feel to any space.
Runner Carpet Placement Ideas
Runner carpets can be used in a variety of different areas throughout your home. When it comes to placement, make sure to leave a balanced amount of space around your carpet so that it looks intentional and doesn’t overwhelm the space – around 4” to 6” is a good place to start. Let’s take a look at some of the best places for runner carpets
Hallways – When we think of floor runners, this is often the first area that comes to mind. Hallways are generally long and narrow, and a runner carpet fills the space perfectly, while also adding a warm and cosy feel. The shape of the carpet draws the eye inwards, welcoming guests to your home.
Kitchens – Floor runners are an increasingly popular way to complete a modern kitchen. A colourful carpet running the length of your countertops is a great way to provide comfort as you cook, as well as enhancing the look of your kitchen.
Living rooms – Runner carpets can be used to define different zones within an open plan living area. They’re particularly effective if you have French windows.
In fact, there’s no end to where you can use a runner carpet in your home. Try a runner along the length of your bed for a cosy feel underfoot when you get up in the mornings; place one in the bathroom for a shot of colour; or add a runner to your stairs.
Decorating with Runner Carpets
Runner carpets can complete your decor, adding a final designer flourish to any room. When it comes to colour, you have plenty of options: choose a versatile neutral that will sit comfortably in any colour scheme, or use your runner to liven up your space with a pop of bold colour. Experiment with layering runners over larger carpets for an eclectic, bohemian look, and don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns to bring your interior to life.
Find Your Perfect Runner Carpet at Carpet Centre
Runner carpets are not just a practical addition to your decor; they’re also stylish home accessories in their own right. Whether you’re looking for hallway runner carpets or simply to fill a tight space in your home, you’ll find plenty of inspiration at Carpet Centre. From modern styles to traditional runner carpets, our designer collection has a runner for every space.
FAQs
Where can I use a runner carpet in my home?
You can place runner carpets in many different areas around the home, including hallways, entryways, kitchens, living rooms and staircases.
What are the different types of runner carpets?
Different types of runner carpets include modern runner carpets and traditional floor runners, as well as power-loomed and hand-finished styles.
How do I choose the right size runner carpet for my space?
It’s important to measure your space before deciding on a runner. Popular sizes for hallways include carpet 300 x 80, but you’ll need to make sure to leave space (around 4” to 6”) around your carpet.
What materials are commonly used for runner carpets?
Materials used for runner carpets include polyester, wool blends and art silk.
How do you put a carpet runner on the stairs?
Safety is paramount when you install a runner carpet to your staircase, so it can be a good idea to engage a professional. Runner carpets need to be secured with carpet tape and staples, and pulled tight to prevent rucking.