The studio aims to craft spaces of experiential quality derived from a rooted understanding of how design affects lives as a result of urban necessities.
When one looks at space as a blank canvas, ceiling and flooring are the largest surfaces, taking up a proportional occupancy – visually, thereby forming one end of the border that frames a room. Depending on the overall intervention, ceilings are an integral part of the space and look cohesive when they align with the aesthetic and are strategically designed to balance it.
Ceilings can be kept simple to tone down the overall vibe or be designed as a focal point, thereby adding dynamics to the room. In fact, the ceiling is one of the most subtle ways to define a space and corner. For instance, a low heightened ceiling by the box window creates a cozy corner to lounge in or highlight the area and its use, spatially hand-holding the user across the room.
Keeping this larger picture in mind, one can explore creative ideas with ceiling designs. This play can be explored in the materiality, form, color, and even texture, thanks to plenty of options available in the market today. Here are some alternatives to explore and keep in mind while designing statement ceilings.
Paint the ceiling
The ceiling is the fifth wall, making it an easy element to adorn with color and texture to complement a space, especially to add pop to a subtle and neutral space. However, if you’re planning to opt for an accent wall, the color can bleed into the ceiling to create an inviting aesthetic. However, remember the 60-30-10 rule where 60% is the primary color, 30% secondary color, and 10% is the accent. If planned the right way, your space is guaranteed to make a statement, where the ceiling is the hero element.
Bring in the prints
Another exciting way to highlight a ceiling is using wallpaper. In spaces where the walls are neutral-toned like white or lighter shades, a printed wallpaper in the base tone, or even a contrast, can level up the game to another tangent. This can be furnished with elegant furniture pieces in natural textures to allow the ceiling to steal the show.
Add texture through materials.
If you are looking to add extra oomph to your spaces, explore different textures and materials like wood and concrete finish ceilings. Additionally, a play of two or more materials can further enhance the top; therefore, you could integrate metals like copper, brass or steel to add opulence. Remember, the entire ceiling does not have to exhibit the material, and instead can have it in parts. For instance, wood can be the cladding on the beams, defining the space while smartly becoming the pelmet that hides the window dressing or the curtain rods.
Explore forms
Flexible materials like Plaster of Paris (POP) allow for a dynamic exploration of form and levels in the ceiling apart from being cost-effective. If you wish to create a unique design with undulations and circular or graphical patterns, try your hand while keeping other elements of the space simpler. This playful layering can be painted in one color to add subtle elegance and tone down the dynamic. Apart from that, try a slanted ceiling to create an inviting space or explore moldings and cornices to achieve a vintage look.
Additionally, if the space allows the possibility, a skylight is a statement feature in the ceiling that brings in natural light throughout the day. The opening can be framed in metal or wood to further accentuate the top.
Defined through fixtures
The most crucial function of a ceiling is concealing wires for electrical appliances such as lights, AC ducts, and fans. Taking advantage of these services, one can design exciting elements, such as coves to tuck away led lights and use them for mood lighting or diffused lights. A statement piece like a chandelier in the living space or bedroom is a sure-shot way to make a statement.
As explored, there are numerous possible ways to enhance a space through statement ceilings. However, it is essential to maintain a balance between all the elements to create the necessary visual impact, yet keep it even-handed and not overpowering. So, the next time you think of painting the ceiling a typical white, think twice and explore some playful possibilities.
The authored article is written by Devika Khosla, Creative Director, The Works Interiors, and shared with Prittle Prattle News exclusively.
