My husband has been repainting our small basement staircase for the last week or two, and it’s already looking so sweet. When we moved in the stairs were carpeted and not very attractive. A few years ago we removed the carpet and painted the steps dark gray, but the paint started to wear away and the stairs themselves needed some wood filling and sanding, so this time we decided to give them a proper refresh.
Many of you asked to see process photos, so here are some before-and-during shots of our staircase.
We still have some finishing work and the walls need paint, but it’s already making me happy. We chose white paint this time. The stairwell is fairly dark, so the white makes everything feel lighter, fresher, and more open. It has transformed the space.
If you’re worried about white with pets, don’t be—we’re planning to add a stair runner. I usually prefer exposed wood because it’s so easy to keep clean; our previous staircase makeover featured hickory floors and we loved how low-maintenance that was. A quick sweep or a damp cloth and we were done. In this basement stairway we don’t have the option of natural wood, so white paint paired with a rug that adds texture feels like the best choice. Texture will also help prevent slipping on the steps.
Cleaning a stair runner can be trickier than bare wood, so we’re focused on finding a runner that balances style and practicality—something durable, easy to maintain, and still cute. I’m leaning toward a stripe or a subtle plaid, but I haven’t found the exact runner yet.
Below I’ve gathered inspiration photos of charming staircases and runners to help narrow down our options.
Do you like stair runners? Even a fresh coat of paint can change everything. Are you painting any staircases or rooms in your home this season?
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Related Posts:
More of our Before & Afters in this home
Hickory Hardwood Floor Staircase Makeover (in my old home!)
More Staircase Inspiration