Favorite Stair Riser Tile Designs and Tips

Decorative tiles are the perfect design accent for a stair riser. For a classic look use the same tile for all the risers. For a more bold statement, alternate the pattern used on each row or try using different designs on the same riser.  There are a lot of ways to create a stellar look. Here's our top five ways to use hand-painted decorative tiles on stair risers.  Regardless of your favorite design style, it will always provide a unique look that was created by you!

Use the Same Tile Pattern on Each Row

For a more classic and traditional look that is always classy, use the same tile pattern on each row of risers.

The same tile pattern and the warm, earth tones of our California San Fernando tile was used on each row to create a classic, timeless look

An encaustic cement tile border pattern looks magnificent on these stair risers

Cement Tile Colors can be Customized so the Risers Coordinate with the Tread

Traditional Blue and White Spanish Caceres Tiles on the Risers Provide Old World Charm  when paired with Clay Bisque Treads

You can also use different size tiles on different rows if your creating a new home or addition.  This is great look if you are designing a new home or patio and what to transition from one space to another.  Or, if you have existing risers, that are 6" high, consider 6" inch tiles on one riser and two rows of 3"x3" tiles on another.

Different Sizes of Spanish Caceres Tile are Used for this Patio's Stair Risers

Different Tile Patterns on Each Step or Row

Consider using a different pattern on riser.  You can repeat the pattern on each row in a particular sequence or randomly place rows based on colors or personal preference.  You can also limit your selection to just a few patterns and repeat the pattern every other row.

Stair risers tiled with different tile patterns on each step.

A grand staircase with Spanish tile and tile floor molding in La Casa Nueva

Malibu or Spanish Revival Tiles Create a Stunning Effect

Cement Tile Border Patterns Make Great Stair Risers. Different patterns on each row can work if the pattern or colors complement one another

A different ceramic tile pattern is used on each row of this home's staircase

Different Designs on the Same Riser

Frequently, r; To provide a cohesive look that provides a lot of interest, use tiles with different patterns on the same row or riser.  It's best that the tiles are from the same line or artisan so the background colors and pattern colors are cohesive, tieing the different patterns together.

For instance, our Spanish tiles shown here are the Teruel, Alcala, and Andalucia. They look great next to each another on the same row.

Three Different Spanish Tile Patterns are Used On This Riser

Different Tiles Used on the Same Stair with a Repeating Pattern

Place Decorative Tiles with Plain Tiles

Place the decorative with plain tiles in a random or alternating pattern.  You can place decorative tiles 'on point' and fill the area with plain or solid color tiles.  You can also achieve a similar look using different colors of plain tile.  Or, include a vertical or horizontal "spacer row" using a 2"x2" of the same design or in a solid color field tile or moulding, like flat bar or domed liner.

Decorative or Patterned Tile Don't Have to Span the Entire Riser

Stair Riser using decorative tiles 'on point' with cut  plain tiles

Design Tip

Decorative tiles often come in only a few sizes, like 6"x6" and 4"x4".  If your stair risers are not a common height, don't despair.  You can create a great look by cutting the tile down.  This method also works when the last few rows of tiles might be a different or "non standard" risers that are made shorter to meet an existing grade.

Decorative Tiles Can Be Cut Without Losing Appeal

Be creative with your designs when using hand-painted or decorative tiles for stair risers. There aren't any 'strict design standards' to follow, except your own! Try different sizes, patterns and groupings. You can place them in a traditional grid pattern or on-point with field tile in a coordinating color. Get samples and and try various layouts until you find one that suits your sense of style.

Have a favorite? Of course you do! Let us know your favorite from our top design picks, we'd love to hear from you. Or, share your own idea. There are few projects more fun than tiling stair risers!