Always Look Up: The Art of Ceiling Design

Have you ever walked into a space and found yourself mesmerized by the ceiling above? Ceilings are known as the fifth wall by designers and have been used as a canvas for artistry for centuries. We encourage you to always look up and explore the beautiful world of ceiling design.

History of Ceiling Design:

People have been adorning their ceilings for centuries. We can still see examples of some Ancient Roman structures that have some fantastically designed ceilings. One of their main building materials was concrete, which as you can imagine is quite heavy for ceiling construction. Because of this, they needed a way to maintain the structural integrity of the concrete while lightening the load. Coffered ceilings were used so they could make the ceilings of their structures grander and taller. They were using coffered ceilings for practical reasons, but we feel that it also adds a level of beauty to the interiors of these structures! A great example of this is the Pantheon in Rome which features a fantastic, coffered dome made of concrete. Coffered ceilings continue to be used today for both structural and aesthetic reasons. (we can even find it in the DC metro tunnels!)

The Map Room – Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy – a gorgeous example of a wooden coffered ceiling. Not nearly as ornate as some other examples in the palace but shows off some beautiful carved details.

The Hall of Lillies – Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy has some of the most incredible ceilings. This is just one of the many rooms that features incredibly ornate coffered ceilings.

As time went on, architecture itself became more and more advanced and ceilings were becoming more intricate. Some ceiling elements such as coffers, arches, vaults, etc. were improved upon so ceilings could be made higher and higher without losing the structural integrity of the building. Gothic architecture used these construction techniques to create the soaring ceiling heights they are so well known for. As the actual construction techniques were improving, the level of intricacy was advancing as well. Ceilings were being embellished with everything from paint and mosaics to plasterwork and carvings. When thinking of extremely ornate ceilings and interiors in general, The Renaissance and Rococo periods both come to mind.

St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague, Czechia showcases a beautiful, ribbed vault ceiling which is a staple of gothic architecture.

Another ornate ceiling in Palazzo Vecchio. Much of what we see in the palace today is due to some remodeling by Cosimo I de Medici with the help of artist and architect Giorgio Vasari in the mid-16th century.

Some of the grandest ceilings are found in places of worship such as cathedrals and mosques, yet they can also be found in palaces and residences. During certain periods, ceiling ornamentation was prevalent in homes as well.

The Medici Villa della Petraia is just one of the Medici Family’s many residences.

A much more simplistic (yet still beautiful) ceiling in Villa della Petraia. A great example of how the detail that we see in the Renaissance period in palaces and cathedrals can be paired back to create beautifully designed residences as well.

Ceiling Design Today and How you can elevate your home:

Today, the art of ceiling design is not confined to grand palaces or churches. We can all incorporate elements of the gorgeous ceilings we see on our travels into our own homes. From painted murals and millwork to unique light fixtures and architectural elements, the possibilities are endless.

Crown Molding

Crown Molding is a great way to add a little elegance to your spaces without breaking the bank. We love a cove crown molding as it is a simple silhouette, yet it helps the room feel taller! If you want to take it a step further, add some decorative millwork.

Paint

We love to paint the ceilings of our spaces. The ceiling is the 5^th wall after all! If you really want to do something unique find an artist to paint a mural – your very own Sistine Chapel. As far as color goes for the ceilings, for rooms with lighter/ white walls we love to go with soft and light colors on the ceilings such as a soft blue or a pastel purple – this helps to draw the eye up and makes the space feel more expansive. For darker rooms, especially if you want to cozy up the space, don’t be afraid to go dark on the ceiling as well. Note about darker colors though – it will make the space appear smaller, which is great if you want to make a space more intimate, such as in libraries and dining rooms.

A step above adding paint is adding a beautiful wallpaper! This is great if you want to add some extra pizazz to your space. For an extra luxe look, think about using metallic or lacquered wallpaper. That will really make a statement. We are using wallcoverings on ceilings more and more these days.

In this colorful bedroom we added some grasscloth wallpaper to the tray ceiling to add some dimension. Design by Margery Wedderburn Interiors

Architectural Elements

Architectural features such as coffered ceilings, beams, vaults, and tray ceilings are all things you should consider for your home. These elements are a little more difficult to add yourself to an existing home (vaulted ceilings, coffers, tray ceilings), but something to consider when starting new with an architect. Decorative beams can be added as long as you have the ceiling height. If you want a coffered ceiling look, consider installing millwork in a grid pattern instead. When painted the same color as the ceiling this trick adds dimension without taking away from the height of the room.

The beams and paneled ceiling really complete this beach home design. Design by Margery Wedderburn Interiors.

Millwork on the ceiling mimics the look of coffers and adds a level of elegance to this traditional dining room. Margery Wedderburn Interiors.

Lighting

The lighting in a space is the perfect finishing touch. We love a good statement chandelier, whether it’s bold or simplistic, they are a great way to add a wow factor.

This dining room features a lacquered ceiling and a stunning chandelier which is the centerpiece of the space. Design by Margery Wedderburn Interiors.

So, let’s never forget to look up and strive to make our spaces more interesting. Ceilings can be so much more exciting! An unexpected canvas for our creativity that can transform your room into a work of art.

Stay Inspired!

The Margery Wedderburn Interiors Team