Hello madamemaison, I would definitely say runner! So much nicer... You already have a guide line and can just give it a fresh coat of white there continue to the last two steps as normal... I'd leave the banister as is too. I notice where the original carpet extends quite far out.. You could bring it in slightly... So a narrower runner and then see a little more of the painted sides.... Very nice!!! : ))

Personally I think you need to see quite a bit of wood rather side of a runner so I'd just carpet although I do love a runner it has to be in the right style house and on wide stairs

You have such a lovely entrance to you home that I would choose full width in a really popping colour - be brave as it really works. Also have you thought about opening up the panels on the Sid of the stairs to give it a more open and bigger view ?

Thanks for all the kind words and advice. I only want a runner because I love the look of them and that it still allows some of the wooden 'bones' of the staircase to be displayed. Given that absolutely no-one has said "yeah - install it yourself - it's so easy!" I'm definitely feeling inclined to save up for longer and get it done professionally. I'm currently thinking of going for the wool loop carpet attached in a beige/natural colour-way and edged with a dark charcoal linen border.