Stairs Makeover: White Oak Stairs Design with Checkered Floor Tiles

Your foyer is basically the handshake of your home. So why let it be weak? My stairs makeover took things from meh to main character energy with a few smart upgrades. The secret weapon? Harlequin tiles on the tile floor, transitioning to white oak wood stairs. In today’s update, I’m sharing my stairs makeover progress.

Stairs Makeover: White Oak Stairs Design with Checkered Floor Tiles

As a reminder, here’s what the stairs looked like before with its very old, very dirty carpet:

Here’s what the foyer looked like before:

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A fresh coat of paint, new stairs, and, of course, statement flooring can change everything. Foyer decor can be as easy as throwing a cute table in the corner and calling it a day. Or it can be a whole mood that feels intentional, stylish, and maybe even a little show-offy. And honestly? If your entryway doesn’t make you do a little happy dance every time you walk in, it’s time for an upgrade.

I love how this transitional style adds a perfect mix of vintage charm with modern design. No more dull, forgettable entryway. Now it’s serving foyer renovation goals with a stairs design that actually makes an impression.

Tile entryway transition to wood / tile floor next to hardwood:

Your foyer is the first thing people see when they walk in, so why let it be boring? This stairs makeover proves that a little effort can completely transform the space. Instead of sticking with the same tired look, consider an upgrade that blends style and function.

My husband Nick (@RadDadBuilds on YouTube) built everything. We went to a hardwood lumber lot to carefully pick white oak for the new stairs. We bought flat cut white oak for the treads, posts and railings, and rift cut white oak for the risers.

@chelseaclarke.co Today I’m picking out white oak hardwood planks for my staircase remodel! The foyer makeover is coming along and the stairs are the nextstep in my home restiration project. I mean, the 30 year old blue carpet the stairs currently has is cool and all but lets do something a little fancier (and cleaner!) #renovationproject #homeimprovement #homemakeover #homeupdates #stairs #stairsdesign ♬ Buy Mode (From "The Sims") – Power Up Orchestra

A bold stairs design can make all the difference, and adding harlequin tiles to the tile floor instantly elevates the whole area. The contrast of classic patterns with modern touches creates a look that feels fresh yet timeless. If your foyer renovation needs a statement piece, updating the stairs is the way to go.

Top of stairs decor upstairs landing view of checkerboard harlequin tile floor and white oak stairs:

A cohesive design that ties in the foyer decor sets the tone for the rest of the home. Whether you prefer something subtle or dramatic, the right materials and finishes can bring your vision to life. The beauty of harlequin tiles is their ability to add dimension without overwhelming the space. Small changes, like upgrading the railing or adding new lighting, can also enhance the overall aesthetic.

If you’re tired of walking into a space that feels uninspired, start with the stairs! Ready to take your entryway from forgettable to unforgettable?

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