Some tile designs are just timeless—and River Ombre is one of them.
This look has become one of our most requested custom tile patterns, and for good reason. The River Ombre design mimics the natural, flowing movement of a river—starting at the base of the wall and rising upward in a beautiful gradient of color. It brings both calm and energy to a space, and can be as bold or as subtle as you want. Whether you're working with neutrals, pastels, or a full spectrum of color, this design just works.
We typically use our Medium Diamond tile for River Ombre backsplashes, but we’ve also made it with Fish Scale tiles, Hexagons, Triangles, and more. Like a real river, this look adapts to its environment—and that’s part of the magic.
Here are a few River Ombre projects that we can’t stop thinking about:
1. A River Ombre Through the Window
This dreamy kitchen uses shades of white, grey, and black to create a soft, neutral ombre effect with diamond tiles. What makes it special? The tile literally flows through the window and wraps around the room—like the river it was inspired by.
2. Modern-Day Craftsman with Blue & Green Tones
Blues, greens, greys, and whites all come together in this warm and welcoming space. A light blue range and wood hood tie it all together, giving off major modern-craftsman vibes. Proof that colorful tile can still feel cozy.
Design by Hanson Remodeling
3. Pastel River Backsplash for a Light & Airy Look
Soft, subtle, and fresh—this pastel ombre backsplash design for Heartbeet Kitchen brings a gentle flow to a modern kitchen. Using our Medium Diamond tile in a mix of muted hues, the result feels effortless and ethereal.
4. Bold Blues to Fiery Oranges River Ombre
This one makes a serious statement. Starting with diamond tiles at the center and blending outward into large hexagons, this backsplash transitions from cool blues to warm oranges. It’s set against white cabinetry for max impact.
5. Triangle River Ombre Backsplash
We love when clients switch things up. This River Ombre uses triangle tiles and flows from rich brown to orange, pink, and white. Warm, playful, and totally unique.
Design by Construction2Style
6. Scaled Down, Same River Ombre Vibe
A more compact version of the Construction2Style look, this backsplash moves from black to grey to white and fits perfectly in a smaller kitchen. It’s a great example of how River Ombre can work on any scale.
7. A Pop of Lilac Kitchen Backsplash
This design proves you don’t need a “perfect” color combo. Mixing mostly neutrals with a surprise pop of our Lilac glaze, this diamond tile backsplash feels personal and unexpected—exactly how we like it.
8. Fish Scale Wave River Ombre Backsplash
Fish Scale tiles in amber, terracotta, and deep red create a warm ombre wave that feels straight out of nature. No wonder this one was named Kitchen of the Week.
Design by Kate Roos | Featured on Houzz Kitchen of the Week
9. Lake House Blues Backsplash
This project blends rich blues in a River Ombre pattern that brings a little Mid-Century Modern charm into a luxe lakeside cottage. Dreamy, moody, and a little bit retro.
10. Matte Meets Gloss Dynamic Kitchen Backsplash
In a sleek, modern kitchen, we paired matte tiles with a few high-gloss black diamonds to add just the right amount of shine and movement. It’s subtle, but makes a big difference when the light hits just right.
Want to Make Your Own River Ombre?
The best part of this look? It’s completely customizable. You can choose from our extensive color palette, mix tile shapes, and create a River Ombre that’s yours. Whether you want a calm, tonal ombre or a bright burst of color, we’re here to help make it happen.
