Reese Witherspoon's stair accessory has a centuries-old history – but it remains one of the most functional and stylish home fixtures

Stair runners likely conjure images of grand estates or even historical palaces, and this is because they have deep historical roots. However, the remain a fixture in many homes, as evidenced by Reese Witherspoon's latest Instagram post.

The actor recently shared a clip of her on her wooden staircase, with a red Persian runner adding a bold statement (not to mention an element of safety) to the area.

We love runners and the endless options they provide to steps, so we got insight from an expert on their history, along with some styling tips and stair runner ideas. According to designer Nina Lichtenstein, the original function of stair runners was for both stair care and styling, as she explains.

'Stair runners have a rich history that dates back centuries, originating in grand homes and estates where they were used to protect expensive hardwood staircases while also adding an element of luxury,' she says. 'In the 18th and 19th centuries, stair runners were often made from hand-woven tapestries or elaborate oriental rugs, serving both a decorative and practical purpose. As they became more popular, stair runners evolved into a symbol of status and refinement, often paired with intricately carved staircases in prominent hallways.'

She continues, 'Today, stair runners remain a stylish and functional addition to homes, balancing aesthetics with comfort and safety. They are particularly popular in high-traffic areas, adding traction and reducing noise as people move between floors. Modern stair runners are available in a wide range of materials, from durable sisal and jute to lush wool and even synthetic blends, making them a versatile choice for any home style—from minimalist to traditional.'

When it comes to selecting patterns, colors, and materials, Lichtenstein recommends assessing the color and material of the staircase at hand, then going from there.

'Styling stair runners is an opportunity to bring personality into a space,' she explains. 'For a classic, timeless look, opt for a solid color or subtle pattern, such as herringbone or stripes, that complements the natural wood tones of the staircase. If you’re aiming to make a bolder statement, consider using a patterned or textured runner that contrasts with the surrounding decor, such as a vibrant geometric design or a vintage-inspired print. Runners that feature a wide border on either side, revealing the stair treads, offer a polished and tailored look. Additionally, layering stair runners with decorative stair rods can add an extra touch of sophistication and old-world charm.'

We love how Witherspoon paired her weathered, antique brown stairs with the traditional, Persian pattern and bold red color; it adds a pop to the space while staying inside the existing warm color palette.

Shop our stair runner picks, ranging from traditional to contemporary, below.

Shop H&G's Stair Runner Edit

All in all, we recommend stair runners as protective surfaces for any staircase; consider a thicker material if you like a softer feel under your feet, or a thin runner for a subtle appearance.