The Ceiling

                                                                

      What would we do without the ceiling? One of the most important structures to keep the elements out of our homes, protecting our lives and possessions is often passed by without so much as a glance.

     Hold off putting another picture on the wall and take a good look at your ceiling. Step out of the box and add some color and bring that ceiling to life. Now, I'm not asking you to paint a ceiling like Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel , but recognize that the ceiling is an import part of your decor and incorporating it into your design will enhance the area.

     The photos shown are samples of the options which can emphasize and draw attention to your ceilings. Ceilings can be as individual as you are, designs in countless variety. With some imagination and work you can produce an area which flows in harmony.

   

    So what keeps us from including the ceiling into our decorating plans? One big reason our ceilings have been neglected is fear, fear of the unknown. What color should I use? Where do I start? What are the costs? Who do I hire? Well, here's a few tips to get you started.

    Let’s start with a small step, for those with low ceilings, I suggest applying a color which is a few shades lighter than your walls. This will give the illusion of height to the area and a step out of the common box. This small change has a big impact; I have seen my clients change all their ceilings after one was painted. It is very uplifting!

    Higher ceilings can have darker shades of color to bring the ceiling lower and cozier.

In some of the photo’s there are different levels of faux finishes from basic techniques to more advanced.  Do your homework and try this yourself or hire a professional. In either case you’ll have a ceiling to be proud of.

   What if my project does not turn out well? Remember it’s paint and it can be painted over, which is the beauty of it. But, I highly suggest sample boards of the colors and techniques that will be used before starting. Ask questions, ask for help, this will take a lot of pressure off and you’ll have greater success.

            So, let your ceiling shine and draw attention to such a great focal area in your home.

    Here is a great example of adding a warm color to the ceiling which makes a large room cozier.  In most cases adding color alone will change the area, this is also cost affective, small steps can give big results.

                                      Adding a coffered ceiling is always a show stopper
   Money may be an issue when considering an architectural change, if there's no issue here than
                                                                      go for it!  

        Metallic gold painted crown moldings and faux painted sponge technique adds sophistication.
              This is great idea if there are coffered or tray ceilings in your home.