Modern carpet rods to enhance a staircase
The style of stairrods which you choose is highly personal. There is no right or wrong design. Whilst stair rods date back to the 19th century and possibly before, they have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity and modern carpet rods designs create a fashionable aesthetic to the centre of your home.
Design of finials
When choosing a stair rod design, it can be helpful to consider the general decorative style of your home. It tends to be the finials (decorative ends) which influence the style of a stair-rod and the finish. Strong shapes such as the Arrow can work well with striped carpets, whereas the Blacksmith Flat and Ball designs have a hammered metal finish in black or stainless steel and create an industrial look. In contrast, the flat faced Vue, neatly tipped has a minimalist feel.
Finishes available in modern styled carpet rods
Whilst antique brass and polished brass are the most popular finishes, if you are looking for an on-trend feel to your home then take a look at some of the more fashionable finishes such as brushed chrome, chrome, polished nickel and pewter. Q and A
Which stair rods have a modern look?
The Vision range of 12mm diameter stair rods, comprising the Arrow, Sphere and Piston designs, have clean-cut and geometric lines to them, creating a fashionable and contemporary look. These stairrod designs are all made-to-measure in a choice of ten different finishes. On-trend options include the matt black, brushed chrome and dusky pewter finishes. In addition, the Blacksmith Ball and Blacksmith Flat runner rods achieve a strong industrial and contemporary tone with their individually hammered finish and choice of stainless and wrought iron finishes.
What are they made from?
The Arrow, Sphere and Piston carpet runner rods are designed for longevity and looks. The rods are hollow and manufactured in a robust, composite metal which come in three alternative designs: a smooth plain rod, twisted rod or reeded design. Meanwhile, the finials are worked from solid metal and screw into the rod either end. There is a choice of ten metal finishes. In contrast, the Blacksmith designs are hand-made in solid iron and the finials (end sections) are an integral part of the runner rod.
What diameter of rod should I buy?
The 12mm diameter stair rods are designed to be used on a regular domestic staircase. Anything less than 12mm will have less impact. Larger dimensions are available in ranges such as the Premier Collection and these are designed for wider staircases, such as those often found in hotels or grand houses with statement staircases.
Do they hold the stair runner on the staircase?
When stair rods were first introduced back in the late 1800s, they were used to hold the stair runner in place on the staircase. The runner was then regularly removed and beaten to clean it. Despite the stair rods, the runner would quickly ruck and sag. Today, stair runners and carpets are securely fitted to a staircase with gripper on each step and so modern stair rods are purely decorative.