5 Types of Ceilings
Ceilings Perth of rooms serve a variety of functions from acoustic conditioning to reducing the scale of a room. They may even conceal structural elements.
1. Beamed Ceilings
Beam ceilings—also known as cathedral, vaulted, or raised ceilings—have become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to add dimension and style to a room. Historically, beams were left uncovered for structural and economic reasons, but today the exposed ceilings are often designed with different types of wood or faux beams to suit various design styles.
While solid wood beams have a rich look, they’re also heavy and require regular upkeep. For a less expensive and easier-to-maintain option, consider faux wood beams(Opens in new window) made from high-density polyurethane. Available in manufactured textures that closely resemble real wood, these beams are lightweight and easy to install. They can be painted with a flat or matte finish to match the surrounding ceiling.
To create a more visually appealing beamed ceiling, pair your beams with a glistening chandelier or other ceiling lighting ideas to highlight the details of your wooden structure. In this dining room by Creative Tonic Design, the dazzling golden hue of a statement chandelier provides a stark contrast to the dark wood beams in this vaulted ceiling, beautifully accenting the space.
For a softer, more feminine touch to a vaulted ceiling, add a draped canopy to the space. This stunning bedroom by Homes & Gardens features rustic, dark wooden beams with a muted yellow diamond patterned canopy, creating an intimate and cozy sleeping area while zoning the vaulted ceiling of this master suite.
A vaulted ceiling can be an effective design feature in rooms where plenty of people will be together, such as family and living areas. However, smaller spaces intended for quiet activities such as bedrooms and studies aren’t typically good candidates for a vaulted ceiling due to their lower usage.
2. Cathedral Ceilings
Few design elements are as impactful as cathedral ceilings, which add a sense of grandeur and character to living spaces. Known for their eye-catching height and sloping design, this style of ceiling dates back centuries, with early examples visible within church and cathedral structures. When integrated into home design, these high-ceiling features are perfect for highlighting tall ornamental plants and oversized furniture. They also offer unique lighting options like chandeliers and hanging lamps. Additionally, their sloping design helps manage the distribution of heat during colder seasons.
While vaulted ceilings may look intimidating in their raw form, a little bit of paint can soften the look and make the space feel inviting. Earthy hues, such as taupe-y grays and golden maples, help reduce the perception of height. Additionally, using plank ceiling tiles with a wood-tone finish will create a rich texture that complements the natural features of your room.
Vaulted ceilings also require additional insulation due to their height, which can increase energy bills if not properly insulated. Additionally, the peaked design can amplify noises from rooms above.
Exposing the beams of a vaulted ceiling offers a striking, down-to-earth look that pairs well with natural materials like stone fireplaces and wooden furnishings. The juxtaposition of rustic sophistication and expansive openness provides a sophisticated yet grounded ambiance to a living space. When painting the flat facades of a vaulted ceiling, use a lighter color for the main surface and a darker shade to highlight moldings and beams. This will ensure the ceiling looks intentional and cohesive. For added visual intrigue, consider adding varying textures to the flat surfaces of your vaulted ceiling, as Desiree Burns Interiors did in this living room.
3. Coffered Ceilings
Coffered ceilings have a dramatic effect on any room. They add dimension, enhance a home’s architectural style, and can increase its resale value. In addition to the design benefits, coffered ceilings reduce noise and can make a room feel more spacious. However, homeowners should be aware that a coffered ceiling may also require more structural support than other types of ceilings and could require consulting a professional before installing.
A coffered ceiling is a classic architectural feature that features a grid of rectangular, square, or octagonal panels in three-dimensional sunken sections. The word coffer means indentation, which aptly describes the look of this ceiling type. Historically, these ceilings have been crafted from wood and were used to emphasize the richness of a room’s architecture in palaces, grand churches, and public buildings. Today, coffered ceilings can be found in homes and businesses alike.
Depending on the color scheme and decor of a room, coffered ceilings can be either modern or traditional. For instance, in a farmhouse-style kitchen, a series of skinny beams can create a rectangular pattern to complement the neutral tones of the room. The same effect can be achieved in a contemporary living space, where the indented portions are painted to match the crown molding above.
Homeowners can build a coffered ceiling from scratch for an original, custom look or install Armstrong coffered panels that offer a customizable design without the need to construct beams. In the latter case, the panels are attached to a base frame made from 2×6 framing. The recessed sections are then built up with decorative moldings or patterned panels and painted to match the rest of the room’s décor.
4. Tray Ceilings
Tray ceilings are an architectural design feature that elevates a room’s visual appeal. They are available in a wide variety of shapes, styles and finishes to create a unique look. Depending on your preference, you can decorate your tray ceiling with trim, molding or even a light fixture. A common way to make a statement with your ceiling is by painting it with a bold color that contrasts with the walls and furnishings.
In addition to the aesthetic appeal, a tray ceiling adds dimension to a space by creating a visual illusion of depth and height. They can also enhance a room’s lighting, especially if you choose to install recessed lights or chandeliers within the recessed section.
A single or multi-tier tray ceiling is a great option for homeowners looking to add an elaborate feature to their room without the complexity of a cove ceiling. The more levels your ceiling has, the more dramatic the effect. However, a multi-tiered tray ceiling should be positioned carefully to avoid structural design issues with your home’s joists or trusses.
If you’re unsure which type of ceiling is right for your home, consult a professional to help you plan and design your space. A good design will ensure that the finished product meets your needs and expectations. It will also be easier to navigate the construction process during a remodel or build.
Tray ceilings are a popular choice for living rooms and dining rooms. But they can also be used in bedrooms to make the space feel more intimate and relaxing. You can use trim and molding to create a softer look or you can paint the ceiling a beautiful shade of blue to create a dramatic statement that will impress guests.
5. Mesh Ceilings
Mesh ceilings have an industrial appearance that looks great in contemporary spaces. Their expanded metal surface introduces new textures that can form impressive design features and create an unforgettable ceiling experience. They also allow natural light to penetrate throughout the space, which helps to reduce energy costs and create a brighter and more inviting work environment.
Like all our other metal ceiling products, mesh tiles are durable and easy to install into a suspended grid system. They can be arranged in a wide range of patterns and finishes for a truly customised aesthetic. And they’re also fire-resistant and compliant with Australian building standards, making them the perfect choice for a variety of spaces.
In addition to their design flexibility, mesh panels also help mitigate sound reverberation in large areas by reflecting or diffusing it. This makes them a great option for gyms where acoustic comfort is critical to the user’s enjoyment of the facility.
Whether you’re looking to enhance a modern office, an urban shopping centre, or a residential high rise, these mesh panels will fit right in and make a lasting impression. And because they’re made from aluminium, they’ll be a durable and cost-effective choice that will stand the test of time.
Choosing the right ceiling material is an essential part of ensuring a successful construction project. With so many options available, it’s important to understand the benefits of each so you can determine which one best aligns with your architectural requirements. We can help you navigate the various design materials available and specify a solution that will meet the needs of your next project. Contact us today to get started.