While each and every part of an interior counts, I have found that the ceiling is often an afterthought – and in many cases completely overlooked.
This is unfortunate as the ceiling is an important focal point – especially since it comprises nearly 1/3 of a room. The good news is there is a vast array of wonderful patterns, finishes, materials and designs that can transform a plain white ceiling into a beautiful work of art.
At The Grand Del Mar, a one-of-a-kind luxury resort just north of San Diego, we designed each and every ceiling differently: using such techniques as hand stenciling, frescoes, elaborate wood, stone or fabric inlays, wood beams and light coffers. In this particular project, we were intent on using ceiling designs that reflect what is seen in many historic buildings throughout Europe. Most importantly, these ceilings are all in keeping with the interiors – an intricate Mediterranean style – and never fail to amaze visitors.
Following are ideas – some simple; some more ambitious – that will bring life and character to a plain, unadorned ceiling:
Stenciling: Stenciling can enhance any room, but is especially useful if ceilings have been painted with a flat paint in medium- to dark-based hues.
Exposed Wood Beams: Wood beams lend architectural appeal. They can be formal or informal and are particularly interesting when rusticated. We have used rusticated beams extensively, especially when designing mountain or rural retreats.
Wood Planks: If you like the look of wood flooring, consider installing a similar look on the ceiling – wood planks infuse warmth and elegance.
Hammered/Pressed Tin: A unique and antique look, this style can really brighten up a space, and typically works best in older homes.
Lighting: Beautiful, well thought out lighting is the finishing touch on any ceiling. Install a beautiful chandelier and highlight with a dimensional plaster or foam medallion or a stenciled rosette.
Moldings: Moldings are a classic, timeless accent. Consider crisp white crown moldings and/or panel moldings in a ‘tracery’ or other kind of pattern.
Coffers: Coffers are drops in the ceiling and provide an interesting dimension to ceilings. When designed correctly, multiple coffers add a great deal of depth and often trick the eye to an otherwise low ceiling.
Beams: Wood beams that crisscross in a grid, lend a traditional, polished touch. Try painting beams in a special finish or adding a stencil pattern to the bottom or sides of the beams.
Wallpaper: This is a fairly simple ceiling solution, and the diversity of products on the market offer myriad possibilities. Try using a wide tone-on-tone stripe and install it in a rectangular format so the stripes follow the direction of the walls
Wood /Stone or Fabric Inlays: Create rectangles on your ceiling, either with wood beams, coffers or panel moldings. Within the rectangles, install either wood veneer panels, wall coverings or upholstered fabric panels to add color and depth. During a recent project, we installed antiqued mirrors within the rectangular insets.
Special Note: Keep in mind that ceiling height smatter and are a definite factor in setting the tone for a room. Ultra high ceilings, in particular can make a room appear empty if they don’t have the right decorative element like a unique chandelier, while lower ceilings can make a room feel smaller. In general, we tend to recommend higher ceilings in living, sitting and dining rooms and lower ceilings in kitchens and bedrooms.
Whether you opt to add architectural elements such as vaulted or cove ceilings, beams or moldings or to simply dress them up with paint and imagination, redoing ceilings adds a new dimension – as well as style and character – to all rooms.
Please send me photos of your newest ceiling design!