In the world of interior design, color plays a crucial role in creating impactful and beautiful spaces. When it comes to choosing the right paint for our rooms, there are plenty of factors to consider. One aspect that often goes overlooked is the color of our ceilings. Many people automatically default to painting their ceilings white, assuming it will make the space feel brighter and larger. However, a leading paint and color expert argues that this may not be the best approach.
According to the expert, painting ceilings a lighter color other than white can actually make a room feel more impactful and well-designed. By choosing a color that contrasts with the walls, the ceiling can create an illusion of height and make the space appear larger. This design approach works especially well in rooms with high ceilings, where painting the ceiling with a darker color can help bring it downwards and make the space feel more cozy and intimate.
Furthermore, the expert explains that painting ceilings in a different color can make architectural details such as cornicing or beams stand out, adding character and interest to the room. Instead of having the ceilings blend in with the walls and go unnoticed, a contrasting color can draw attention to these beautiful finishes. This creates a more visually dynamic and sophisticated space.
Another reason to rethink the default white ceiling is the effect it can have on the overall color scheme of the room. By introducing a different color on the ceiling, it can tie in with other elements in the space, such as furniture or accessories. This creates a cohesive and harmonious design scheme, making the room feel more well-thought-out and intentional.
Finally, the expert emphasizes that different finishes and paint textures on ceilings can also have an impact on the overall design of the room. A matte or eggshell finish can create a softer and more subtle effect, while a glossy or metallic finish can reflect light and make the ceiling appear brighter. By playing with these finishes, one can further enhance the desired atmosphere in a room.
In conclusion, there are several compelling reasons why painting your ceilings a color other than white is worth considering. From creating visual interest and depth to enhancing architectural details and tying in with the overall design scheme, a contrasting ceiling color can have a significant impact on the look and feel of a room. So, before you reach for that default white paint, take a moment to rethink and explore the exciting possibilities that await!
1 White ceilings don’t always make rooms feel bigger
Contrary to popular belief, painting ceilings white will not always make rooms feel bigger. This is a statement made by a leading paint and color expert, who suggests that perhaps we should rethink the traditional approach of painting ceilings in white.
The expert explains that while white ceilings may work well in certain conditions, they might not have the desired effect in all rooms. In fact, painting ceilings in colors that contrast with the walls can be more impactful and create an illusion of height.
By using contrasting colors between the walls and ceilings, the expert says that you can make the space appear larger. A darker or brighter color on the ceiling can draw the eye upwards, creating a sense of height and making the room feel more open.
Additionally, using a lighter color scheme on the ceiling can make the area feel brighter and more airy. This can be particularly effective in rooms with low ceilings or limited natural light.
When it comes to finishes, the expert recommends considering the overall design of the room. Glossy or reflective finishes on the ceiling can add a touch of elegance and enhance the illusion of space. However, matte or textured finishes can also work well, depending on the style and design of the room.
Overall, the expert suggests that before submitting to the default white ceiling, it’s worth considering the color and finish that will best complement the walls and make the room feel larger and more inviting.
2 White paint makes architectural details invisible
According to the paint and color expert, using white paint on the ceiling can make architectural details disappear, resulting in a lackluster design scheme. In fact, this approach can create a visually unappealing and monotonous space.
If you should not opt for white paint on the ceiling, the expert suggests reconsidering your design strategy. By using colors that contrast with the walls, you can make architectural details stand out and create a more impactful statement.
One way to achieve this is by finishing the ceiling in a darker or contrasting color. This will draw the eyes upwards, making the space feel taller and the room appear larger. Adding contrasting finishes, such as glossy or matte, can further enhance this effect.
Architectural details, such as cornicing or crown molding, can be emphasized using a contrasting color or finish. By choosing a color or finish that is different from the walls, these details will stand out and add visual interest to the space.
Furthermore, using a lighter color on the ceiling can create the illusion of a brighter room. This is especially beneficial in spaces with limited natural light or in rooms with lower ceilings. By opting for a lighter color, you can make the space feel more open and spacious.
In conclusion, the expert advises against using white paint on the ceiling due to its ability to make architectural details invisible. Instead, a contrasting color or finish should be considered to create a more visually appealing and impactful design scheme. Taking into account the conditions and natural light in the room, a carefully chosen color or finish can work wonders in making the space feel brighter, bigger, and well-designed.
3 Create exciting contrast
Another reason why you should never paint a ceiling white is because it can create an impactful contrast in your space. By choosing a different color for your ceiling, you can make it stand out and create a visually interesting effect.
“Contrasting colors can make a room look larger and bigger,” says the leading paint and color expert. “When you have a white ceiling, it tends to blend in with the walls and doesn’t create any excitement or statement. By using a different color for the ceiling, you can create contrast and draw attention to the height of the space.”
If you have a room with lighter walls, opting for a darker ceiling can create a dramatic effect. On the other hand, if your walls are already dark, using a lighter color for the ceiling can make the space appear brighter.
In fact, the expert suggests that you should rethink the traditional approach of always painting ceilings white. “Contrasting ceilings can work well in both traditional and modern design schemes. They can add depth and make a room feel more dynamic.”
Perhaps you want to create the illusion of a higher ceiling. In this case, the expert advises using a paint finish that reflects light, such as a glossy or semi-glossy finish. This will create a reflective surface that draws the eye upwards, making the ceiling appear higher.
To create a cohesive color scheme, the expert recommends taking into consideration the existing colors in the space. “Choose a color for the ceiling that complements the walls and other design elements in the room. Consider the lighting conditions as well – a lighter color may work better in a room with limited natural light.”
When it comes to finishes, the expert suggests using contrasting finishes for the ceiling and the walls. For example, if your walls have a matte finish, consider using a satin or glossy finish for the ceiling. This contrast in texture can add visual interest to the space.
Furthermore, if your room has decorative details such as cornicing or molding, a contrasting color for the ceiling can help highlight these features and make them stand out.
By submitting to the traditional white ceiling, you may be missing out on the opportunity to create an exciting contrast in your space. So, it’s time to rethink your ceiling color and go beyond the norm. Whether you want to make a bold statement or create the illusion of a larger space, choosing a different color for your ceiling can have a significant impact on the overall design.
4 Bleed the ceiling color downwards
Another approach to painting a ceiling that reveals more design details and creates a more impactful effect is to bleed the ceiling color downwards. This technique involves extending the color from the ceiling onto the upper portion of the walls, creating a continuous flow of color.
This approach works particularly well in larger spaces with high ceilings, where the ceiling color can help visually lower the height of the room and make it feel cozier. By painting the upper portion of the walls in the same color as the ceiling, you eliminate the harsh contrast between the ceiling and walls, creating a more cohesive color scheme.
“Bleeding the ceiling color downwards is a great way to make a statement and add some drama to a space,” says the paint and color expert. “It’s especially effective when using darker or bolder colors, as it can give the illusion of a larger space.”
If you decide to bleed the ceiling color downwards, you should consider the finish of the paint. Using a matte or eggshell finish on both the ceiling and upper portion of the walls will create a more consistent look and avoid distracting reflections or sheens.
It’s also important to note that bleeding the ceiling color downwards may not work in all spaces. In rooms with ornate cornicing or other architectural details on the walls, it may be better to rethink this approach and keep the ceiling color separate.
To make the space feel even brighter and bigger, you can consider painting the lower portion of the walls in a lighter color. This will create a contrast with the upper portion and help draw the eyes upwards, making the room appear taller.
Ultimately, bleeding the ceiling color downwards is a technique that can add depth and dimension to a space. It allows you to play with the visual boundaries of a room and create a more unique and impactful design.
5 Consider the sheen level
When choosing the color and finish for your ceiling, it’s important to consider the sheen level. According to leading paint and color expert, the sheen level can drastically impact the overall look and feel of the room.
Higher sheen levels, such as gloss or semi-gloss, can make the ceiling appear larger and more impactful. This is because the shiny finish reflects more light, creating the illusion of a bigger space. On the other hand, lower sheen levels, like matte or eggshell, can create a softer, more subtle effect.
So, when choosing the sheen level for your ceiling, you might want to rethink the policy of always using a white paint. Perhaps a brighter or contrasting color with a higher sheen level will work well with your overall color scheme. This approach can help create a statement and make your ceiling a focal point in the room.
Additionally, by using a different sheen level on the ceiling compared to the walls, you can create a sense of depth and height. For example, if your walls have a matte finish, using a gloss finish on the ceiling will draw the eye upwards and make the space feel taller.
The expert suggests considering the architectural details of the room, such as cornicing or other decorative finishes, when choosing the sheen level. A glossy finish on these details can make them stand out and add visual interest to the ceiling.
Overall, it’s important to think about the sheen level of your ceiling and how it will work with the rest of the design elements in the room. By considering the sheen level, you can create a more impactful and dynamic space that will make a statement.
Are white ceilings better
1. Creating contrast and highlighting details
Contrasting the color of your ceiling with the color of your walls can add depth and dimension to a room. By choosing a color other than white for your ceiling, you can create a visual separation between the two surfaces and make architectural details, such as cornicing or molding, stand out.
2. Making the room brighter
While white ceilings can reflect light and make a space appear brighter, other light-colored ceilings can achieve the same effect. By opting for a lighter shade that complements the overall color scheme of your room, you can still achieve a bright and airy feel without sticking to traditional white.
3. Making a design statement
A non-white ceiling can act as a design statement and add personality to a room. By selecting a color that matches your overall design concept, you can create a unique and impactful look that sets your space apart.
4. Creating the illusion of a bigger space
Painting your ceiling in a color other than white can give the illusion of a larger room. By choosing a lighter shade that matches or complements the color of your walls, you can create a continuous flow and make the space feel more open and spacious.
5. Rethinking traditional approaches
Breaking away from the convention of white ceilings allows you to explore different color schemes and experiment with bolder choices. By considering alternative colors and finishes for your ceilings, you can add a touch of originality and creativity to your interior design.
As a leading paint and color expert suggests, it’s time to rethink the idea that white is the only option for ceilings. By considering the impact of different colors and finishes, you can create a more visually interesting and unique space.