Elevating an Entryway: A DIY Staircase Transformation with the Juliette Custom Runner Rug

Taking on an entryway staircase transformation in true DIY fashion, homeowner Chrissy Cignarella used the Asha Juliette Custom Runner Rug to bring warmth, texture, and elegance to the space. Proving that a great runner rug doesn't just add style—it defines a space. Here’s how her Well Woven rug helped turn her dated staircase into a statement-making feature.

Photo courtesy of Chrissy Cignarella.

Before the Staircase Transformation: A Blank Canvas

Before the upgrade, Chrissy’s entryway staircase featured white walls and wood plank stair treads—functional, but far from the welcoming entryway aesthetic she envisioned. It lacked warmth, contrast, and a design focal point. Determined to refresh the space, she set out to create a classic yet modern look.

Photo courtesy of Chrissy Cignarella.

During the Staircase Transformation

For Chrissy, creating a welcoming, polished entryway meant starting with a few key upgrades before introducing a Well Woven custom rug as the finishing touch.

First, a fresh coat of paint set the tone—she chose Antique Pewter by Benjamin Moore, a sophisticated green-grey hue that added depth and contrast to the stairs.

To enhance the space further, she installed peel-and-stick floor tiles, opting for a timeless black-and-white checkerboard pattern. The faux marble look gave the small entryway a refined foundation, balancing classic style with modern convenience.

With these updates in place, the stage was set for a custom runner rug to tie everything together.

The Solution: A Thoughtfully Designed Runner Rug

Installing the runner rug on the staircase was a straightforward process.

Chrissy began by carefully measuring her staircase to ensure she’d have enough rug material to cover the stair treads and the risers. She ended up ordering two Juliette Custom Runner Rugs from our Asha Collection for the project. These were made-to-measure for her space at 27-inches wide and 10-feet long. 

Chrissy's hope was that the runners’ neutral beige and green tones would effortlessly complement the new paint and bold contrast of the checkerboard tiles.

Once in hand, Chrissy’s husband used a nail gun to fasten the runners to the stair treads and risers. He started from the top of the staircase and worked his way down, being sure to keep the rug taught so there are no wrinkles or bulges. This smoothed and secured the rug so it wouldn’t shift underfoot.

With each step carefully secured, the stairway had a finished look that blended comfort and practicality. The cushioned surface softened each step while also providing traction, making the staircase safer and more inviting.

The Result: A Stunning Staircase Makeover

From the new paint color to the timeless black-and-white checkerboard tiles and the Juliette Custom Runner Rug, every element in Chrissy’s space works together to create an entryway staircase that’s both functional and visually appealing.

This project highlights how a well-chosen rug—especially when paired with simple DIY changes, like strategic color choices and practical design updates— can elevate a space significantly. 

Ready to transform your own staircase? Explore our collection of custom runner rugs and discover how easy it is to elevate your space with thoughtful design updates.

See more of Chrissy's home decor updates on Instagram at @cignaturestylebychrissycig.