to create a smoother corner. Instead of getting trapped in a sharp angle, dust could be swept away more easily.
More Than Just Decoration
Dust corners served several purposes:
- Made sweeping easier
- Helped keep dirt from collecting in corners
- Protected parts of the wooden staircase
- Added an elegant decorative touch
Today, they’re mostly appreciated for their historic appearance, but their clever design still makes sense.
2. Stair Rods Had an Important Job
If you’ve ever seen a traditional staircase with a carpet runner and shiny metal rods across each step, you may have wondered what those rods were for.
They’re known as stair rods.
Originally, stair rods helped secure carpet runners to wooden staircases. The rods were fitted through the carpet and held by brackets on either side of the stair.
From Practical Necessity to Classic Decoration
Modern carpet installation methods generally use staples, tack strips, or other techniques to
