We like this idea for adding a note of exotica to the stairway: stair risers tiled in contrasting and complimentary patterns.
Above: A project in LA by Lascaux Tile Company.
Above: Handpainted tile stairs by Villafranca Studio; photo by Michele Lee Wilson for California Home & Design.
Above: A stairway at Peacock Pavillion in Marrakesh, photo by Patrick Cline of Lonny.
Above: Stair risers stenciled to mimic the look of tiles at Peacock Pavilions.
Above: A curved staircase with tiled risers by Latin Accents Tile Company.
Above: A grand staircase in a St. Simons Island house by architect Thad Truett.
Above: A stairway patterned after one in El Grecco's house in Toledo, Spain, via Coastal Living photographed by Douglas Hill.
Above: Another stairwell painted to resemble tiles from Arathi Jayaram on Pinterest.
Looking for more staircases to inspire? Sift through our Room Gallery for ideas.
N.B.: This post is an update; the original story ran on August 8, 2012.