The Fifth Wall: How to Design Your Ceilings
If you hang around me long enough you will find out that I have a sixth sense about the fifth wall in every room. “Fifth wall” you ask? Yes, it’s the most under-utilized area of any room and it can offer a blank canvas for your designs. I am speaking of your ceiling! I must admit that many of my clients shy away from using the ceiling to express themselves, but I LOVE a chance to have some fun with this space.
Here’s a few simple ideas:
1. Paint a solid color.
Often a white ceiling, especially in a large room with an 8’ ceiling height, can feel like it’s coming down on you. A pale color – other than white – is a simple way to “lift” the ceiling visually. Another area I love to do this is powder rooms, to create that cozy effect.
2. Paint a funky design.
Kid’s bedrooms are often smaller in size and wall space can be at a premium if you consider the windows and closet doors. So I love to use the ceiling as a way to express the personality of each child whether it be through a geometric pattern with color (maximum of 3 is a good rule of thumb) or a painted sky.
3. Wallpaper patterns raise the eye.
If you like the idea of a pattern in a room, but don’t want to overwhelm the space, add a wallpaper pattern to your ceiling. Dining rooms are my favorite area to suggest this – I’ve even done my own! This adds drama in a controlled plane and can draw attention to the ceiling – visually raising the ceiling height.
Whatever you choose, don’t be afraid to let your imagination take flight. The “fifth wall” is like uncharted territory waiting to be discovered!
Looking for creative ways to make your interiors stand out from the crowd? Check out my ROOM DESIGN ESSENTIALS online design services at Bailiwick Interior Design.
Do you like getting my bi-monthly tips and insights? FOLLOW BAILIWICK INTERIOR DESIGN on INSTAGRAM for EVEN MORE GREAT INFO!
Planning a home improvement project and don’t know where to start?
Click the button below to receive CARRIE’S ULTIMATE GUIDE TO A SUCCESSFUL HOME RENOVATION PROJECT.