Things are looking up!

At some point, someone decided ceilings were meant to be painted stark white, in a flat or eggshell finish only. Wallpaper, paint or other wall treatments stopped either at the crown moulding or right at the line where ceiling meets wall. Now, there’s nothing wrong with a white ceiling. It lends itself to a certain crispness, and will always brighten up the room. But ceilings have been the overlooked extra surface for too long, and it’s time to reconsider that old way of thinking.

Start looking at ceilings as a large, open canvas. If the rest of the room is very busy, keep the ceiling simple. But simple doesn’t have to mean stark white and empty. If you’re looking for a light, airy feel with just a touch of color, the ceiling should be half as dark as the walls- 50% color mixed with 50% white. Don’t rule out dark ceilings, either. Darker paint won’t necessarily make the space feel small and confined, but it will make the space feel cozy or add an element of drama. The simplest way to choose different paint colors for walls and ceilings is to use colors on the same paint swatch.

If you’re feeling bold, your ceilings can really pack a lot of punch! Beadboard or ship lap planks with crown moulding add a coastal, nautical touch. Pendants and chandeliers can be mounted on medallions for interest and luxe. Tin tiles are a perfect nod to old world style, and can be painted any color or left metallic. For a walk on the wild side, try wallpapering the ceiling! We love a funky stencil, and classic patterns will stand the test of time. Stencil stars on the ceiling, or beautiful Moroccan tile patterns!

Go big or go home? No. Go big IN your home!