Stair Runners: Waterfall vs Hollywood Installation Method

When it comes to stair runner installations, there are two common types of installation methods: Waterfall and Hollywood.

Both are industry standard techniques, but each delivers a very different look and finish. Below we’ll outline the differences and highlight projects completed by our expert installation team.

What is the difference between Hollywood and Waterfall Installation Methods?

Hollywood Installation Method: The carpet is tightly wrapped and tucked around the stair nose and secured to both the tread and rise. This creates sharp, crisp lines at each edge.

Waterfall Installation Method: The carpet flows smoothly over the edge of each stair and drops straight down over the riser, like a waterfall.

Waterfall Installation Spotlight

In a recent project, our clients in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, decided to add a custom stair runner to their two beautiful staircases after experiencing a fall that raised concerns about safety.

During a showroom appointment, we reviewed various styles, fabrication types and installation options. The final choice came down to Waterfall vs Hollywood installation. They ultimately selected a Hollywood installation method because of the unique double molding/stair nose shape on the staircase.

The chosen style, a beautiful Fabrica handloomed carpet called Hilo, cascades down the stairs like a “waterfall” while also providing essential traction and peace of mind for the homeowners.

Hollywood Installation Spotlight

Upper West Side – Couristan Creekside Runner

Our client with small children on the Upper West Side had multiple flights of stairs that needed a runner to reduce noise and enhance traction for safety reasons. Working alongside interior designer Eduardo from Studio Edo on this project to find the right style from Couristan called Creekside.

The Hollywood installation method was the best fit here because the carpet is tightly wrapped and stapled under the nose. This creates a sculpted, secure and durable finish ideal for active homes.

Brooklyn – Prestige Mills Striped Runner

Another Hollywood installation completed for our Brooklyn clients, who had two staircases to cover. They preselected a wool striped style from Prestige Mills. You can see how the stripe pattern installed with the Hollywood method has a tailored visual compared to the cascading Waterfall method.

One detail we helped them customize was the fabrication style and serging color. They chose a contrasting blue grey serging which was the perfect finishing touch for their home.

For more inspiration, check out our other blog posts: Stair Runner Ideas and How Carpet Makes Stairs Safer, Quieter and Prettier. Follow us on Instagram @carpettimenyc for our latest projects and custom installations. 

Ready to design your custom stair runner?

Book an appointment at our Woodside, Queens showroom today. Call us at 718-472-4740 to book your shopping appointment today!