Using a pattern on the stairs that is well-coordinated with the solid(s) used in the bedrooms is a great look. Have you chose colors? If there is hardwood flooring on the stairs and hallway, using runners on those can also create a nice transition between the patterned and solid carpet.

I Absoultey agree with Working Wonders. Having wood flooring on stairs with runners is the best, but less affordable.

Thank you! Unfortunately we are priced out of doing wood flooring on the stairs. Since they are open on one side with spindles the cost is just too high. We are thinking of gray solid carpets and a gray and white pattern for the stairs. The entire second floor will be carpet.

Don't be concerned about not doing wood flooring. With the right combination of solid(s) and pattern, it will be beautiful. I think continuing the patterned carpet into the hallway, then transitioning to solid color(s) for the bedrooms, will provide a better visual flow. The elegant combination of gray and soft whites/ivories have been popular this past year in our Earth Weave and Natural Rugs and Carpet lines. Since you wrote that you have children and pets you may want to check out Earth Weave's sustainability (non-toxic) criterion to use as a baseline for vetting any carpet line you look at. http://www.earthweave.com/did-you-know-main

I also love patterned carpet on stairs, and that is exactly what I did. It took me forever to find a patterned carpet with a matching fiber solid, but I did. The room upstairs is a solid plush, of the same fiber as the patterned.( Please ignore that old floor - it has been replaced since this picture.)

aww, now I want to replace my old stair carpet (goes to basement) I'm adding it to the list behind a few projects! Good luck!!