Bare stairs can be great, but if you have old dull wood that needs to be brightened up, are craving the warmth of wool on your bare feet, or just need a change...

placing a runner on your stairs can make all the difference!


 
There are so many different things that can be done.


 
You can paint a runner on,


 
install a wonderful woven cotton piece by Dash and Albert,


Zebra Runners at Overstock.com 

 release your inner animal,


 
just paint the rise of your steps the same color as your wall and baseboard while leaving the actual step bare (it makes the steps appear to be floating), 



 or use an antique patchwork kilim runner! 


or
striped Ikea rug that can be cut and bound

  I think this black and white number would look fabulous on the stairs...hmmmm