I generally consider the risers part of the trim, so that would be my answer. However, people have done wonderful things with the risers on stairways, and so in the end it is up to you.

I painted my risers the color of the trim at the insistance of husband, architect & contractor. I wanted to paint them black. Its only been a few months and Im already regretting listening to anyone but my own instinct. Even though we take our shoes off in the house, I foudn a big scuff mark today! Arrrrggh.

So Id go with something dark if you don't mind the look.

Our treads are painted black and the risers are white. While my trim is white as well, I really did it that way because the railing is painted black and the spindles white. I do think you can do whatever you want. Not sure that I'd personally what my risers to be my wall color. The white risers do get scuffed. But as with anything else, after the first mark, I think you sort of forget about it.

Hmmmm...it is a tough choice. At least Potsticker isn't too dark. I don't know, but I'll probably stick with the White Dove, but make sure he puts an extra coat on, or uses a more durable paint on the risers. Thanks, everyone.