Ombre walls are having a moment – these 5 rooms have the best, most elevated versions of them

Ceilings, often dubbed the "5th wall" of a room, are frequently overlooked in home decoration, typically remaining plain white. However, a growing trend encourages homeowners and designers to view ceilings as a canvas for creativity, much like walls and floors. Historical precedents, such as the elaborate cornicing, ceiling roses, and frescos seen in Victorian homes and iconic structures, highlight a rich tradition of decorative ceilings that has largely diminished in modern design over the last 50 years. This shift has resulted in a missed opportunity to enhance a room's aesthetic and character. Experts advocate for reconsidering the ceiling's potential. Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director at Dulux, emphasizes that people are only just beginning to rediscover the beauty above their heads, urging a conscious effort to "look up" for design inspiration. Neglecting the ceiling means overlooking a significant surface that can profoundly impact a room's atmosphere, light, and perceived spaciousness. The article presents ten innovative living room ceiling ideas, ranging from simple paint applications to more intricate structural and decorative changes. One suggestion is to highlight authentic wooden beams, which introduce history, character, and warmth, especially when contrasted with a white ceiling or complemented by botanical wallpapers. Another approach involves a cohesive color scheme, extending wall colors onto the ceiling to create a unified and flowing visual experience. This does not necessitate a full "color drench" but rather a selective application to maintain brightness while fostering continuity. For living rooms in conservatory spaces, canopies are recommended to add interest and a cozier feel, utilizing natural materials for an outdoor-inspired ambiance. Bold painted ceilings offer a dramatic focal point, allowing for complementary or contrasting shades with walls, guided by color theory for harmonious pairings. Textured looks can be achieved with shiplap, offering a coastal vibe when painted white, or a more customized appearance with other colors. Glossy paint finishes are suggested for their ability to reflect light and add sophistication, particularly in rooms with high ceilings, where a dark gloss can create an explosion of glamour. For a more significant investment, skylights can transform dark, small, or open-plan living rooms by introducing natural light and architectural interest. Wallpapering the ceiling provides an opportunity for color, pattern, and personality, with options ranging from bold prints to subtle textures or stripes. A striking sculptural pendant light can serve as an immediate focal point without extensive ceiling modification, with oversized designs adding grandeur. Finally, bringing wall color down from the ceiling to a picture rail or further is a clever trick for high ceilings, making large rooms feel more intimate and cozy. This can be executed with blocks of color, tonal checkerboard effects, or wavy lines, using the right tools and paint for a flawless finish. #LivingRoomDesign #CeilingDecor #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesign #RoomIdeas #PaintIdeas #LightingDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures #DIYHome

The article explores various ceiling paint ideas, highlighting how the 'fifth wall' can significantly impact a room's overall design and atmosphere. Contrary to the traditional habit of painting ceilings white, interior designers and DIY enthusiasts are increasingly embracing color and creative techniques to transform this often-overlooked surface. The piece emphasizes that incorporating the ceiling into a room's color scheme can create a more cohesive and impactful interior. One approach is to embrace bright and colorful designs. A vibrant ceiling, such as a yellow one paired with green walls, can create an uplifting and spirited atmosphere, unifying the space through color. This technique can make a room feel unique and inviting, as demonstrated by one designer's inspiration from a yellow field against a green backdrop. For those seeking a more subtle effect, painting only the ceiling trim is suggested as an alternative. Another idea is to create a cozy environment, particularly in bedrooms. Using a dark paint color on both walls and the ceiling can make a space feel snug and inviting, defying the common belief that dark ceilings make a room feel claustrophobic. This method, when balanced with brighter elements like a yellow door or lighter bedding, can result in a stylish and comfortable sleep space. It's noted that dark colors can visually lower high ceilings, while in rooms with lower ceilings, darker shades are best applied to the lower half of the walls. Creating an unexpected element of contrast is also discussed, where a bold color on the ceiling can serve as a striking design statement. High-gloss paint is recommended for its reflective quality, which can enhance light in a room. This approach can turn the ceiling into an eye-catching focal point, perfect for spaces like dining rooms where conversation and entertainment take place. The article also suggests establishing beautiful color pairings, using different shades of the same color to create a luxurious and cohesive look. Applying a darker shade to the walls and a lighter, tonal shade to the ceiling can add height and a sense of space. This two-toned effect can introduce design interest while maintaining harmony. Furthermore, an immersive effect can be achieved by using a single, bold color across walls, ceilings, and even furniture, creating an artistic and vibrant space, particularly effective in guest bedrooms. Paint can also be used to ground a design, offering a calming contrast to busy patterns or textures. A deep red ceiling in a bathroom, for instance, can balance impactful marbled tiles. Bold choices like black ceilings are explored, challenging the notion of them creating oppressive spaces. A black ceiling, when combined with white walls and natural elements, can add drama and sophistication, provided it's balanced with neutral and light features. For a rustic aesthetic, limewash paint on the ceiling can introduce a subtle, textured effect, adding depth and character. Using a palette of tonal colors, where various shades of one color are used throughout the room, offers a harmonious and coordinated finish. Finally, decorative designs and artistic murals on the ceiling are presented as a way to create a stand-out statement, bringing a sense of grandeur or unique artistic expression to a home. The article concludes by emphasizing that the best ceiling color depends on individual style and the desired atmosphere, encouraging homeowners to consider the ceiling as an integral part of their interior design. #CeilingPaintIdeas #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #ColorSchemes #RoomTransformation #AccentCeiling #PaintFinishes #DecoratingTips #ModernInteriors

Low ceilings often present a design challenge, making rooms feel cramped and less inviting. However, strategic paint choices can transform these spaces, creating an illusion of height and openness or fostering a cozy, intimate atmosphere without feeling claustrophobic. One effective method involves using reflective paint on the ceiling. Gloss paints, for instance, are excellent light bouncers, enhancing brightness and making the room appear larger. This not only adds aesthetic value but also simplifies maintenance. Alternatively, for a more opulent touch, gold leafing can be applied to the ceiling. This refined technique imbues a room with a brighter, warmer glow by reflecting light, simultaneously elevating the space with a decorated feel. Barbra Bright, a renowned interior designer, highlights the use of gold leafing in small, low-ceilinged areas to introduce luxury and create a radiant warmth that permeates the room. Embracing the low ceiling as a design feature rather than a limitation is another creative approach. Utilizing darker, impactful colors can create a 'canopy effect,' enveloping the room in a cocoon-like ambiance. Jane Lockhart, founder of Jane Lockhart Design, suggests that wallpapering or painting ceilings in dark tones can turn them into a distinctive feature. Color blocking, a long-standing interior design technique, also offers a solution. Juxtaposing clashing colors on walls and ceilings can divert attention from the room's dimensions, injecting energy into the space. Juliette Thomas, founder of Juliettes Interiors, advises pairing neutral walls with earthy tones or monochrome schemes on the ceiling, complemented by metallic accents like brass or gold. For a visually elongating effect, painting stripes on the ceiling can effectively create an illusion of increased height or width, particularly beneficial in narrow rooms. Jeff Andrews, founder of Jeff Andrews Design, cautions against overly narrow stripes to avoid a 'circus' appearance, recommending wide, horizontal stripes for a dramatic impact. Color drenching, where walls and ceilings are painted the same color, blurs the boundaries between them, fostering a seamless look that makes a room feel more open and spacious, according to Athina Bluff of Topology. Adding interesting, non-overwhelming patterns to the ceiling, such as light geometric designs or polka dots, can also distract from its low height while adding sophistication. Interior designers Jenna Choate-James and Mariana Ugarte of Interior Fox suggest using bold color pops in small spaces to add depth. Textured paints, like limewash, introduce depth and movement, extending beyond mere color to offer exclusivity. Kristen Pena, founder of K Interiors, describes using layered shades of Benjamin Moore Silver Half Dollar to evoke a cloud-like sensation, making the room feel expansive. To optically widen a narrow room, extending wall paint slightly onto the ceiling creates an impression of a longer, wider ceiling and proportionate room dimensions. Melissa Frederiksen of Atmosphere 360 notes that darker colors recede, effectively widening a space and guiding the eye along the paint's boundaries. Finally, painting only the ceiling borders or trims can transform the ceiling into a focal point, creating an 'umbrella effect' that energizes the room, as demonstrated by artist Luke Edward Hall’s use of contrasting colors for a vibrant yet balanced scheme. For low-ceilinged rooms, choosing a radiant white, soft cream, or pastel tone for the entire room is often recommended. These colors enhance light reflection, making the ceiling appear higher and the space feel more open. Beyond paint, effective lighting strategies are crucial. Flush mounts and recessed spot lights provide ambient illumination, visually expanding the room. Maximizing natural light by keeping curtains drawn back during the day also significantly brightens and opens up the space. #PaintTricks #LowCeilings #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #ColorBlocking #ReflectivePaint #GoldLeafing #TexturedPaint #LightingTips

Ceilings, often overlooked in home decoration, are now being recognized as the 'fifth wall' and an integral part of a room's aesthetic. This shift in perspective is driven by a desire to create immersive spaces, add dimension, and enhance the overall feel of a room. Interior designers and paint specialists emphasize that neglecting the ceiling is a missed opportunity, as it represents the largest empty expanse in any room, offering significant potential for creative expression. There are several effective methods to transform a ceiling from a plain, white surface into a captivating feature. One approach involves painting it a bold, contrasting color. This technique allows for a vibrant overhead statement while keeping walls more understated. Alternatively, the ceiling's color can be extended down to a picture rail, creating a dramatic and enveloping effect, particularly suitable for rooms with high ceilings. Another trending method is to apply wallpaper to the ceiling. This can range from elegant floral patterns to metallic finishes, either as a standalone feature or seamlessly integrated with wall coverings for a maximalist look. However, it is advised to ensure the ceiling is flat for a smooth application and to consider paint over wallpaper for rooms with intricate period features like ceiling roses. Color drenching, which involves painting the entire room, including the ceiling, in a single color, creates a cohesive and seamless environment. This technique can surprisingly make a room feel taller, as the perception of color on the ceiling differs from that on the walls due to varying light exposure. For kitchens and bathrooms, tiling the ceiling offers an elegant and striking solution, adding texture and visual interest. For those preferring a minimalist approach or living in rented accommodations, a statement light fixture can significantly enhance the ceiling's appeal. Chandeliers, pendant lights, or sculptural fixtures draw the eye upwards, becoming focal points. Recessed lighting is also recommended to create an open and airy feel, especially for making ceilings appear higher. Finally, adding decorative architectural features like moulding can introduce visual texture and depth, making the ceiling feel taller and more engaging. Ultimately, the goal is to infuse personality and intention into this often-forgotten surface, moving beyond the default white to create a more attractive and engaging home environment. #CeilingDecor #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #FifthWall #PaintIdeas #WallpaperTrends #LightingTrends #Moulding #ColorDrenching

The popularity of vintage-style wallpapers is currently on the rise in interior design, driven by a renewed appreciation for nostalgia, unique details, classic color combinations, and traditional flora and fauna prints. This trend offers both a fascinating and calming effect, providing a timeless aesthetic amidst modern design sensibilities. Several designers are successfully integrating vintage wallpapers into their projects, showcasing their versatility and appeal. One designer, Matthew Williamson, demonstrates how vintage wallpaper can elevate spaces beyond conventional styles. In his former Mallorca home, he utilized the 'Almudaina' wallpaper from his collection with Osborne & Little to infuse Balearic style with an unexpected twist. This bold yet neutral vintage-inspired motif served as a foundation for the entire room, proving that wallpaper can complement diverse design aesthetics and challenge traditional notions of regional decor. For creating feminine and romantic spaces, vintage floral wallpapers are particularly effective. Designer Sara Malek Barney highlights the use of light, pastel colors and floral prints in a girl’s bedroom, balancing them with white and natural textures like wood and rattan. This approach keeps the design fresh and adaptable, ensuring the chosen print remains relevant as the occupant grows. The incorporation of natural elements prevents the room from becoming overly saccharine, maintaining an elegant feel. Another application involves using cheerful, seventies-style floral prints for accent walls to instantly uplift a space. Interior designer Mary Patton employed such a wallpaper in a bedroom, accentuating the bedhead wall. She paired it with rounded furniture and art that echoed the organic shapes and floral themes of the wallpaper, creating a cohesive and joyful environment. Patton also emphasizes the accessibility of this trend, noting that affordable peel-and-stick options make it easy for DIY enthusiasts. Vintage print wallpapers can also be skillfully layered with other patterns to create harmonious yet vibrant designs. Matthew Williamson exemplifies this by combining floral patterns with geometric shapes, such as striped lampshades and tile-inspired cushions. This technique, a designer's go-to for print layering, results in a whimsical and visually rich effect that avoids pattern clash while adding depth and interest to a room. Finally, vintage wallpapers can serve as a tribute to specific design eras, fostering a nostalgic aesthetic. Interior designer Susan Klimala used William Morris's 'Strawberry Thief' wallpaper in a powder room of a turn-of-the-century home. This choice not only celebrated the homeowner's appreciation for William Morris but also honored the historical context of the house, which was built by an ornithologist, making the bird-themed wallpaper a perfect fit. This demonstrates how classic prints can be both timeless and deeply meaningful. The resurgence of vintage wallpaper is attributed to its vast potential and versatility. Matthew Williamson notes the unquestionable charisma these wallpapers convey, with traditional patterns and colors offering intricate, hand-drawn details that act as artworks in themselves. These designs provide a list of color ingredients that can be pulled from the wallpaper to inform the selection of soft furnishings and accessories, making interior decoration cohesive and inspiring. The trend is seen as a way to inject unique character and a sense of upliftment into any space, from bedrooms to bathrooms, enhancing both beauty and functionality. #VintageWallpaper #InteriorDesignTrends #Wallcoverings #FloralPrints #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #MatthewWilliamson #AccentWalls #NostalgicDesign

The article explores the interior design trend of layering different tones of wood to create rich, warm, and sophisticated spaces. This approach moves away from monochromatic wooden furniture and single-tone finishes, advocating for a varied wood palette in surfaces, furniture, and accessories. Key advice from designers Alexy Kos and Che Huang of Child Studio emphasizes using sustainable, indigenous wood species like pine, oak, cherry, and maple, while strictly avoiding exotic and endangered woods. The article presents five examples that showcase the effective application of this trend. The first example features a dining room designed by Child Studio, incorporating mahogany library walls paired with Rosso Levanto marble and a round maple table. The choice of woods with slightly reddish tones contributes to a deep, opulent feel. The designers highlight that layering various wood tones and textures creates a timeless atmosphere, making a home feel warm and lived-in. They suggest that understated designs, where timber serves as a background element, age more gracefully, allowing accessories or art to update the space. The second illustration focuses on a lighter, brighter application of layered woods within another Child Studio project. Curved walls, furniture, and screens, all made from different wood tones, demonstrate how careful selection of wood grain can unify a space dominated by timber. The designers stress the importance of choosing specific pieces of timber with attractive natural patterns and soft, natural grain patterns. They also advise against high gloss levels, recommending oils and varnishes to preserve an organic appearance, avoiding an artificial or plastic look. A kitchen-diner designed by Melbourne architects Kennedy Nolan serves as the third example, featuring wraparound tonal wood paneling on walls and ceilings. This design prioritizes warmth, texture, and durability. Founding partner Patrick Kennedy explains that eliminating white and lining all surfaces in timber amplifies the material's warmth and softness, enhancing views. While initially hesitant to mix timber species, the studio carefully balanced tones, avoiding high contrast and selecting timbers for their inherent qualities, following a tradition seen in vernacular architecture. The fourth example showcases a vignette at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, designed by NICOLEHOLLIS. Here, Douglas Fir-clad walls and ceilings are combined with a mix of wood furniture, including a deep red-brown sideboard and a pale-framed armchair, with cane elements drawing the natural materials together. Alexy Kos and Che Huang suggest pairing light and dark timbers to create contrast and interest. They recommend using different shades of oak for lighter tones and cherry and walnut for darker ones, using one as a backdrop and highlighting with the opposing shade. This contrast can yield a smart, sharp look, while softer, subtle tones create a more casual feel. The final example is an architectural hallway by Jake Arnold Design, where a subtle difference in wood tone between the staircase and columns highlights the architectural beauty of these elements. A stone table provides a contrasting focal point against the deep woods. The designers suggest that natural elements like marble, limestone, brass, and wool textiles complement mixed woods beautifully. This overall approach of layering wood tones and textures is presented as a sophisticated and welcoming interior design trend. #InteriorDesign #WoodLayering #DesignTrends #HomeDecor #MaterialMixing #ChildStudio #KennedyNolan #NicoleHollis #JakeArnoldDesign

Statement walls offer a compelling way to introduce creativity, visual interest, and a unique personality into any interior space. Instead of uniform design across all walls, a focal point wall strategically breaks monotony and adds a 'wow' factor, making a room more engaging and dynamic. This approach is particularly effective in smaller spaces, where a well-executed statement wall can create an illusion of greater openness and dimension. Several local design experts highlight different methods for creating impactful statement walls. For instance, Brad Ramsey Interiors emphasizes using murals in bedrooms. Brad Ramsey notes that a bedroom's wall behind the bed naturally serves as a focal point, making it an ideal canvas for a mural, even a subtly designed one, to add significant visual impact without overwhelming the space. This technique transforms a functional wall into a piece of art, contributing to the room's aesthetic appeal. Another approach involves incorporating natural and textured materials to add warmth and character. Beth Haley Design showcases a sitting area where reclaimed wood is used on a wall, introducing a rustic element and rich texture. Beth Haley suggests that such material choices, or highlighting existing architectural features like brick, can energize a room and add another layer of pattern without making the space feel cluttered. These walls can also help define zones in larger rooms or enhance coziness in smaller ones, acting as conversation starters due to their unique material. Art installations provide another avenue for statement walls, turning a plain surface into a curated gallery. J. Haynes Interiors illustrates this with a family room featuring a gallery wall of collected artwork above an antique console table. JoAnne Haynes explains that grouping thematically similar pieces can create a more impressive visual narrative than a single large artwork. Such a display can hold sentimental value and tell a personal story, enriching the room's atmosphere. For children's rooms, patterned wallpaper offers a balance of playfulness and sophistication. Jessica Jennings Design features a young girl’s bedroom with 'Chou Chou' wallpaper by Sister Parish. Jessica Jennings highlights that focal walls, when thoughtfully chosen, can create interest and provide a personalized touch that makes a home unique to its occupants. This design choice ensures the room remains appealing as the child grows. Finally, functional elements can also serve as dramatic focal points. Van Mol Restoration demonstrates this with a mirrored media room where a large vintage mirror accentuates a stairwell landing. Derek Van Mol appreciates clients with a clear vision, and this example illustrates how a functional object can be transformed into a stunning centerpiece. This method cleverly uses utility to enhance aesthetics, creating a distinctive and memorable feature. These diverse examples underscore the versatility of statement walls in enhancing various interior designs, from modern lofts to cozy nooks and family-oriented spaces. #InteriorDesign #StatementWalls #HomeDecor #FocalPointWalls #MuralDesign #ReclaimedWood #GalleryWall #Wallpaper #MirroredWalls

The article explores the emerging interior design trend of tiled ceilings, highlighting how this centuries-old concept is gaining renewed popularity in contemporary homes. Ceilings, often referred to as the 'fifth wall,' are increasingly being recognized as a significant opportunity to add style, texture, and character to a room, moving beyond traditional paint and wallpaper. The discussion begins by acknowledging that while tiled ceilings might seem novel, they have historical precedents, such as the tin tiles popular in Victorian-era New York homes. The current resurgence includes both replicas of these antique tin tiles and the innovative use of ceramic tiles, similar to those found in bathrooms, to create a distinct aesthetic. Several practical considerations are emphasized for those contemplating a tiled ceiling. Due to the weight of tiles, it is crucial to select appropriate materials and grout, and to consult with a professional installer to ensure safety and secure application. Designers recommend keeping grout joints as small as possible and using tonal grout colors to enhance the tile's appearance and minimize the visibility of the joints. Tiling a ceiling offers durability and low maintenance, requiring minimal cleaning to preserve its integrity. The article illustrates various applications of tiled ceilings to inject character and depth into different spaces. In kitchens, for instance, custom-colored tiles can create a sense of history and originality, blending seamlessly with appliances and cabinetry. The imperfect edges and glaze of certain tiles can further contribute to an aged and authentic feel. Creative approaches to tiled ceilings are also presented, such as extending a backsplash over a portion of the ceiling to define a specific area, like a cooking nook. This method helps to enclose and zone open-plan spaces, providing definition without requiring physical room dividers. Mosaic tiles are shown to mimic the intricate patterns of wallpaper in bathrooms, offering a decorative and water-resistant solution that treats the entire room as a 'wet room' to manage moisture effectively. This can also create an illusion of a larger space by covering all surfaces with a consistent material. Tin ceiling tiles, known for their affordability and decorative finish, are discussed as a way to introduce warmth and glamour, or an old-timey industrial aesthetic. These can be preserved in historic homes or replicated using new materials, and can even be painted for a more modern, rustic look. Painting tin tiles a lighter color can counteract the oppressive feel of dark walls, and the varied textures of stone flooring, paneled walls, and tiled ceilings can add significant depth and interest to a room without excessive furniture. Classic subway tiles are highlighted for their versatility, bringing a retro-industrial vibe to kitchens. Whether used with contrasting grout for a bold statement or matching grout for a more subtle texture and shine, they can seamlessly integrate into bulkheads and walls. Finally, the concept of 'tile drenching' is introduced for small spaces, where extending the same tile across walls and ceilings blurs room dimensions, making the area feel larger and more expansive. This technique, especially effective in bathrooms, also serves a functional purpose by protecting surfaces from moisture and steam, while adding a sophisticated and dramatic edge to the design. #TiledCeilings #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecoration #CeilingIdeas #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #TinTiles #CeramicTiles #MosaicTiles

Design experts emphasize the ceiling as a crucial, often overlooked, element in interior design, referring to it as the "fifth wall." Instead of leaving ceilings plain white, designers advocate for transforming them into "statement ceilings" using various techniques such as wallpaper, shimmery paint glazes, or contrasting paint colors. This approach can dramatically enhance a room's aesthetic and bring it to life. The recent Junior League of Detroit Designers' Show House showcased several examples of bold ceiling treatments. Annie Kordas of Kordas Interiors, for instance, used a moody wallpaper featuring whimsical woodland creatures, named 'Forêt Noire,' on the nursery ceiling. This wallpaper served as the central design element, acting as a night sky to provide visual stimulation for the baby. Angie Lane, an architect and interior designer with A. Lane Architecture, opted for a hand-painted plaid pattern on the ceiling of her Michigan-themed lodge. This large-scale plaid paid homage to the lodge ambiance and complemented an Alexander McQueen rug on the floor. Kordas suggests several ways to enhance ceilings beyond wallpaper, including painting them a distinct color and adding a dramatic center light fixture. For spaces with exposed wood beams, she recommends staining them dark to add dimension and coziness, especially in rooms with higher ceilings. Furthermore, incorporating double crown molding or applied moldings can contribute to a more sophisticated and "finessed" look. In long hallways, a series of striking light fixtures can create a compelling visual flow. Barb Johnson, owner of Walls of Virtue, a faux painting firm, confirms the increasing popularity of statement ceilings. She notes that applying special finishes to ceilings is labor-intensive, often leading to higher costs. One popular technique involves adding shimmer, which can be mixed into paint. When illuminated by a light fixture, the shimmer reflects light, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Another method is to apply a glaze with "sparkle dust" over a base coat, offering a relatively simple way to achieve a decorative effect. Johnson's work in the Banham family home in West Bloomfield exemplifies the transformative power of statement ceilings. In the foyer, she meticulously applied multiple layers of gold paint over a white pearlescent base to a 25-foot ceiling, requiring specialized scaffolding. This opulent ceiling is visible from three levels, including a basement wine cellar with a glass enclosure. The first-floor powder room also features Johnson's artistry, with gold foils applied to the upper and lower wall portions, complemented by a pearl white middle section with an epoxy finish for durability. The homeowner, Reem Banham, notes that these unique ceiling designs often become a focal point, with visitors frequently photographing them. Johnson emphasizes that successful ceiling design is an art form built on layering, where each element contributes to the overall rich and complex effect. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CeilingDesign #Wallpaper #PaintFinishes #FauxPainting #ArchitecturalDetails #DesignTrends

The article explores the emerging trend of accent ceilings, positing them as a sophisticated alternative to traditional accent walls in interior design. It begins by highlighting how ceilings, often neglected and merely painted white, offer a significant opportunity to add depth and character to a room. Designers and color experts now advocate for treating the ceiling as a "fifth wall," moving away from the outdated concept of a single accent wall, which can make a space feel confined and unfinished. In contrast, a decorative ceiling, covering the entire expanse, provides a cohesive and expansive feel, similar to color drenching. The article outlines seven creative methods to incorporate accent ceilings into home decor. The first method involves extending the wall color onto the ceiling or crown molding. This technique blurs boundaries, making rooms, especially smaller ones, appear larger and more integrated. Farrow & Ball's color consultant, Patrick O’Donnell, emphasizes that this approach eliminates visual contrast, creating a seamless flow and making the room feel like a "color-drenched haven." He suggests that this strategy is particularly effective with strong colors or bold prints on walls, enhancing cohesion if the same color is carried over to woodwork. The second suggestion is to use paint to create a bold color pop on the ceiling. This method introduces an unexpected focal point without overwhelming the entire room. Ashley McCollum, a Glidden paint expert, notes a trend of neutral walls paired with vibrant ceilings, recommending contrasting shades to achieve this effect. Darker ceilings with lighter walls can create a sense of height. Thirdly, the article discusses selecting the appropriate shade for the space. Warm tones like reds and oranges can make large rooms feel cozier, while cool blues and greens evoke a serene and expansive atmosphere. Helen Shaw of Benjamin Moore explains that dark colors can make a ceiling appear further away, creating a dramatic effect, especially in rooms with high ceilings. She advises against defaulting to white ceilings, as they are a missed opportunity to influence a room's mood. Fourth, wallpaper is presented as a way to introduce pattern and print. Helen Shaw suggests using wallpaper on the ceiling and coordinating it with a paint color from the wallpaper's hues to unify the scheme. Minnie Kemp, design director at Firmdale Hotels, advises choosing lighter wallpapers for low ceilings to create an illusion of height, such as a soft blue to mimic the sky. She also notes that bold patterns on both walls and ceilings can disguise tricky attic room ceilings, suggesting white woodwork to break up busy schemes. The fifth method involves incorporating wallpapered stripes. Both horizontal and vertical stripes can manipulate the perception of space, with horizontal stripes widening a room and vertical ones maintaining an elegant, lofty feel. Emilie Munroe of Studio Munroe recommends balancing busy patterns with the most prominent rug color. The sixth approach encourages DIY painted stripes, allowing for customizable effects. Patrick O’Donnell suggests painting stripes across the ceiling for a characterful bedroom or bringing the ceiling color down to picture rail height to reduce the perceived height of tall, thin rooms. Finally, the article advocates for high-shine, reflective gloss paint. Applying a gloss finish in the same color as the walls can create a luxurious statement while amplifying light, making small rooms appear larger and brighter. Patrick O’Donnell notes that gloss reflects light and can highlight architectural details. Dan Mazzarini of BHDM Design adds that layering different intensities of the same hue, such as lighter blue walls with a darker blue ceiling, can create an illusion of greater volume. Kristina Khersonsky of Studio Keeta concludes that accent ceilings offer a unique opportunity to add interest, color, texture, or movement to a room. #AccentCeilings #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintIdeas #WallpaperIdeas #ColorTrends #DIYProjects #RoomTransformation

Floor-to-ceiling windows are a design element that maximizes natural light and offers expansive views, making a space feel larger and more connected to its surroundings. This architectural feature is particularly impactful when a home boasts a spectacular vista, whether it's a sprawling forest, a serene beach, or a vibrant city skyline. The glass panels often extend both vertically and horizontally, creating an almost alfresco living experience. Beyond the visual appeal, these windows bring abundant light into interiors throughout the day. A kitchen, for instance, can be bathed in bright, cheerful morning light, while a living room can be imbued with a warm glow as the sun sets. To further enhance the aesthetic impact of floor-to-ceiling windows, design considerations can include painting the window sashes and mullions in a dark hue. This choice creates a striking contrast against the outdoor scenery, making the vista pop even more. However, the inherent beauty of the view itself often negates the need for elaborate additional adornments. The article showcases 25 diverse examples from the Architectural Digest archives, illustrating how floor-to-ceiling windows are integrated into various residential settings. These examples highlight a range of interior design styles and geographical locations, demonstrating the versatility of this architectural element. In a Connecticut house by Carrier and Co., cube chairs by Desiron are positioned to face the living area's floor-to-ceiling windows, inviting inhabitants to engage with the exterior. Kara Ross and Stephen Ross's New York apartment, designed by Ingrao Inc., features city views through curtained windows, complemented by vintage French mahogany floor lamps and a papier-mâché sculpture. A San Francisco residence, furnished by Ken Fulk, boasts a 27-foot-tall window in the great room, offering sweeping cityscapes. The master bedroom of a New York Hudson River Valley retreat, designed by architect Joel Sanders, includes a Poliform platform bed and a CB2 Peekaboo table by the windows, paired with a vintage Frank Gehry Wiggle chair. An art-collecting couple's home in Amagansett, New York, by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, features a sun-drenched open living area framed by Duratherm doors and windows, with custom-made sofas upholstered in Rubelli fabric and a Stark rug. In Laguna Beach, California, a home by Ehrlich Architects integrates a window wall in the master bedroom that slides open to blend indoor and outdoor spaces, with beds by Roche Bobois. Designer John Barman's Miami Beach apartment utilizes a retractable, floor-to-ceiling door to provide immediate ocean views from every room, showcasing Thonet chairs and vintage accessories. A Los Angeles house decorated by Dan Fink features a Poul Kjærholm leather-top stool and a Vladimir Kagan sofa within a great room that connects to the outside through large windows. A Manhattan apartment by Tony Ingrao and Randy Kemper incorporates a Jeff Koons sculpture and vintage Fritz Henningsen chairs at a window wall. Architect Antoine Predock designed a New Mexico home with a master bedroom offering mountain views, where coyotes have been observed walking outside the windows. Jamie Drake’s New York City living room combines a custom cocktail table and sectional sofa with a Pedro Friedeberg Hand chair and gold-leafed floor lamps, all benefiting from ample natural light. A home by Lake|Flato Architects near Austin, Texas, provides broad views of downtown through expansive windows, accented by a large-scale artwork by Vik Muniz. The Florida living room of Judy Blume and George Cooper, renovated by Thomas E. Pope and Malcolm James Kutner, is bordered by a garden rich with palms and orchids, visible through its windows. Adam Levine’s Hollywood Hills living room, designed by Mark Haddaway, is a carefully curated space of vintage pieces, illuminated by natural light. Lee F. Mindel of Shelton, Mindel & Assoc. designed a New York City apartment living area with stools and wicker lounge chairs by Poul Kjærholm, arranged on a custom-made V’Soske carpet. In Nashville, Tennessee, a family room by McAlpine Booth & Ferrier Interiors features a Sutherland lounge chair and a Flexform sectional sofa, with Donghia fabric curtains. A Commune-designed house in Los Angeles incorporates reclaimed-oak paneling in its double-height living room, benefiting from large windows. Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan’s Shelter Island, New York, home features custom-made ceramic tiles in a sunken living area that is brightened by natural light. A New York City pied-à-terre by Jennifer Post Design Inc. includes a vintage Stilnovo light fixture and a Minotti sofa in a living room filled with light. The kitchen of a New York City residence by ODA-Architecture features red-lacquer cabinetry and stainless-steel counters, with light streaming in through large windows. Gilles Mendel’s Manhattan apartment living room showcases an Earl Reiback artwork between nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, offering unobstructed northern city views. A Manhattan apartment’s master bath, designed by Cooper, Robertson & Partners and De la Torre Design Studio, is clad in Jerusalem Gold stone and features custom-made mirrored cabinets. A Sagaponack, New York, home by Christoff:Finio Architecture has a dining area with a Geoff Kuzara mobile and vintage Walter Gropius chairs, situated to take advantage of natural light. Lastly, a Shelter Island, New York, master bedroom by Michael Haverland Architect and Philip Galanes is lined with Carolyn Ray wallpaper and benefits from significant window space, and a New York City living room by Len Morgan features a George III sofa and antique Irish armchairs, illuminated by the natural light from the windows. #FloorToCeilingWindows #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #NaturalLight #ArchitecturalFeatures #LuxuryHomes #ModernLiving #ResidentialArchitecture #StunningViews

The resurgence of plaster walls in contemporary interior design signals a shift towards warmer, more textural aesthetics, moving away from the starker minimalist trends of the past. This subtle, yet impactful, wall treatment has become a hallmark of what is now often referred to as 'warm modernism,' a style that emphasizes comfort and natural textures. The article highlights that this trend has gained significant traction, appearing in high-profile residences from New York City to Los Angeles, including the homes of celebrities and designs by renowned architects and interior designers. The appeal of plaster walls lies in their inherent warmth, depth, and unique textural quality, which creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow within a space. Unlike perfectly smooth, painted surfaces, plaster offers an organic, hand-crafted feel that introduces character and a sense of history. This distinct visual and tactile experience is described by some designers as the 'umami of architecture,' capable of transforming an ordinary space into something extraordinary. The natural variations and imperfections in plaster applications ensure that no two moments are exactly alike, providing a living, breathing quality to the walls. The historical context of plaster is also explored, demonstrating its long-standing presence in architectural and design traditions across various cultures and eras. From ancient Egyptian tombs and Roman stucco to 15th-century Italian marmorino and 20th-century movements like 'Mizner Mediterranean' and Tuscan styles, plaster has consistently played a significant role in interior finishes. Its current popularity is attributed, in part, to leading artisans like Kamp Studios, whose work has been featured in numerous high-profile projects and has helped re-establish plaster as a prominent wall treatment in contemporary design. Designers, such as Vanessa Alexandra and Gregory Rockwell, frequently incorporate plaster into their projects, noting its ability to soften modern interiors and create an inviting atmosphere. Rockwell advises applying plaster to all walls and ceilings in a room for a cohesive look and suggests that passageways and areas with abundant natural light are ideal for showcasing its unique qualities. He also emphasizes the importance of creating samples to ensure the desired effect. For those seeking a more accessible approach, brands like Portola Paints offer lime wash and Roman clay paints that replicate the raw, textural appearance of traditional plaster, allowing for DIY applications. The broader implication of this trend suggests a desire among homeowners and designers for interiors that are more tactile, authentic, and connected to craftsmanship. In an increasingly digital world, there is a growing impulse to engage with physical materials and handmade elements. Plaster walls, with their inviting texture and rich history, fulfill this desire, offering a sensory experience that contrasts with mass-produced finishes. This movement towards 'warm modernism' and the embrace of natural, textural materials like plaster reflect a broader appreciation for bespoke details and a more organic, lived-in aesthetic in contemporary home design. #PlasterWalls #InteriorDesign #WarmModernism #HomeDecoration #TexturalFinishes #DesignTrends #Craftsmanship #ArchitecturalFinishes #WallTreatments

Wallpaper feature walls offer a versatile and impactful solution for enhancing bedroom aesthetics without extensive renovation. This approach provides an easy and affordable way to introduce color, pattern, and texture, significantly transforming the room's overall appearance. The installation process for wallpaper is generally straightforward, making it an accessible option for many homeowners seeking to refresh their living spaces. The strategic application of wallpaper to a single wall, typically behind the bed, serves as a focal point, drawing attention and creating a sense of depth and style. This method allows for bold design choices without overwhelming the room, maintaining a balanced and sophisticated look. The examples illustrate various applications of wallpaper as feature walls, demonstrating how different patterns and textures can contribute to diverse bedroom styles. One example features a bedroom design by Project File, showcasing how a well-chosen wallpaper can complement existing decor and furniture, adding a layer of visual interest. Another instance, designed by Wy-To, highlights a 1930s walk-up apartment, where wallpaper is used to infuse historical charm with modern sensibilities. Collective Designs presents a bedroom where wallpaper enhances a curated aesthetic, blending seamlessly with other design elements. Substance Living demonstrates how wallpaper can be integrated into a contemporary setting, providing a backdrop that is both stylish and calming. Finally, Arte Living illustrates a design where the wallpaper feature wall contributes to a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance. These varied examples underscore the adaptability of wallpaper in achieving distinct bedroom looks, from minimalist to ornate, and from classic to modern. The effectiveness of wallpaper as a design element lies in its ability to quickly and economically update a space, offering a wide array of visual possibilities to suit individual tastes and design goals. #BedroomDesign #Wallpaper #FeatureWall #InteriorDecor #HomeStyling

The perception of an all-black interior as potentially oppressive, especially on a gloomy day, is a common concern. However, embracing a single black feature wall or accent wall can transform a space, offering a bold yet sophisticated design element. This approach provides a dramatic focal point without overwhelming the room. The versatility of a black feature wall allows for various aesthetic expressions, from minimalist to opulent, depending on the accompanying decor and furnishings. For instance, a simple black wall can serve as an elegant backdrop for a collection of fashion bibles or other cherished items, especially when paired with shallow floating shelves. This setup highlights the items on display and creates a clean, modern look. In more expansive settings, a black feature wall can be framed by an interior arch, adding architectural depth and emphasizing the wall's dramatic impact. The use of black can also introduce an element of whimsy, as seen with chalkboard walls, which are particularly suitable for younger, more dynamic design schemes. The strategic use of black can accentuate other design elements, such as gold leaf, which stands out brilliantly against a dark backdrop, creating a luxurious and rich contrast. Even in functional spaces like bathrooms, a black feature wall can be highly effective, especially when complemented by unique lighting fixtures like a cluster of hanging lamps. This adds a touch of sophistication and intimacy. Similarly, in kitchens, a black accent wall can revitalize an otherwise unloved space, injecting modernity and character. For those with ample space, a black feature wall can be a dominant element that defines a zone or adds a grand statement. The concept extends to creating a modern monochrome aesthetic, which can be achieved by integrating a black wall with white or light-colored furnishings and accessories. Furthermore, a black wall can serve a practical purpose around a vanity table; with sufficient natural light, it can create a chic and dramatic beauty area. In libraries, a black backdrop effectively offsets the varied colors of books, making the collection visually pop and appear more organized. Finally, the practical and playful nature of a blackboard wall allows for continuous creative expression and customization, making it a functional art piece within the home. #BlackFeatureWalls #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #AccentWall #ModernMonochrome #ChalkboardWall #HomeStyling #DesignInspiration

This article showcases five distinct homes, highlighting their atmospheric bedrooms as selected by Dwell editors. Each featured residence exemplifies unique design philosophies that contribute to a tranquil and visually appealing sleeping environment. The first home, the Normal Heights Residence in San Diego, California, is designed by Teresa Xu and Kevin Lee Yi. Its architectural design emphasizes the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces through the use of folding glass doors, large windows, and glass walls on every floor, ensuring abundant natural light. The master bedroom features a custom-made platform bed with a simple white oak headboard, allowing the homeowner to enjoy direct views of the balcony and the valley beyond. This design approach creates a seamless connection with nature, fostering a serene atmosphere. The second featured property is the Mallorca Villa in the Balearic Islands, Spain, designed by architects John Pawson and Claudio Silvestrin. This villa is described as a "zen and dreamlike" example of minimalist design, where a deliberate lack of ornamentation allows the architecture and the surrounding landscape to take precedence. The villa offers stunning views of both the sea and the mountains, presenting a highly expressive and unusual structure that redefines the concept of residential space through its dramatic geometric lines and profound simplicity. The third home is The Flea Market Apartment in Tel Aviv, Israel, designed by Limor Yossifon Goldman. Situated in a location that might typically suggest chaos, the architect chose to create an interior that is airy, clean, warm, and personal. The apartment's design follows a minimalist eclectic style, incorporating significant use of wood alongside geometric shapes, stripes, and grids. This approach successfully contrasts the vibrant external environment with a calm and organized internal sanctuary, tailored for the couple and their social life. Next, the article presents an A-frame cabin in Big Bear Lake, California, which underwent a bohemian eclectic transformation by interior designers Vein Design and Delve Group. This vintage A-frame retains its classic lines while receiving a contemporary update. The interior features rich, deep woods and smoky wide-plank hardwoods on the first floor. Modern brushed brass fixtures are strategically incorporated to add a touch of glamour, blending rustic charm with modern sophistication to create a cozy yet stylish retreat. Finally, the Raber by VEIN, located in Los Angeles, California, is an architectural mid-century modern home designed by Vein Design. Perched in the hills of North Highland Park, this home is characterized by its clean lines and geometric elements. It features raised and vaulted ceilings accented by designer fixtures and white-washed oak flooring throughout. The residence offers three spacious bedrooms, two of which include en-suite baths with custom vanities and Phylrich rain showerheads, and the master bedroom boasts a walk-in wardrobe. French doors connect the living spaces to an expansive deck, facilitating a seamless indoor/outdoor flow and enhancing the atmospheric quality of the home. #ModernHomes #BedroomDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #MinimalistDesign #BohoEclectic #MidCenturyModern #IndoorOutdoorLiving #HomeTours

Double-height ceilings introduce a significant stylistic element into interior design, creating expansive and dramatic spaces. This architectural feature presents numerous possibilities for decoration, accommodating large-scale elements like grand chandeliers and bold surface treatments. The article showcases 19 distinct examples from the archives of Architectural Digest, illustrating how various designers have leveraged the generous verticality of these rooms across different settings. Each example highlights unique design choices and inspirations, ranging from sophisticated urban residences to rustic estates and modernist layouts. One featured space is a New York pied-à-terre, where interior designer Jean-Louis Deniot collaborated with SPAN Architecture. The double-height living room features a Deniot-designed daybed, vintage pieces such as a FontanaArte side table, an Ado Chale cocktail table, and an Edward Wormley sofa. Art by Mauro Perucchetti, 1950s table lamps, and a custom silk rug complete the elegant ensemble. Another illustration is a Tennessee house renovated by DA|AD and decorated by McAlpine Booth & Ferrier Interiors, where a floral light sculpture by U-Ram Choe is a focal point in the double-height living room, complemented by Great Plains fabric curtains, a Chista cocktail table, and vintage Tommi Parzinger and William Haines Designs seating. A Los Angeles home, renovated by Commune, exhibits a double-height living room with reclaimed-oak paneling for a rustic feel, contrasted by dark custom-blended Benjamin Moore paint on beams and trim. Notable furnishings include a custom floor lamp by Downtown, a cocktail table by Alma Allen for Commune, a Vladimir Kagan Contour chaise, and an overscale floor lamp by Bottega Veneta. The residence of decorator Laura Santos in New York features a curvilinear Vladimir Kagan sofa, a vintage cocktail table, a 1940s French floor lamp, and a Dune bench, all set against walls painted in Benjamin Moore white. John Mellencamp's South Carolina house, designed by Monique Gibson, includes a double-height living hall inspired by a church nave. This space is furnished with a custom dining table adorned with a whale-rib sculpture and various wing and armchairs from Lucca Antiques. In a Long Island home redesigned by Thierry Despont, a barrel-vaulted great room boasts a custom Jeff Zimmerman light fixture, an ottoman clad in cowhide, and Guglielmo Ulrich wood-frame armchairs. Architect Benedikt Bolza's Umbrian estate features a double-height master bath with custom-designed mirrors, heated copper towel racks, and travertine-top washstands. A Toronto home by Katherine Newman and Peter Cebulak presents a double-height library with mahogany- and satinwood-inlaid paneling. India Mahdavi's renovation of a Connecticut estate includes a double-height formal dining area with Hans J. Wegner chairs and a custom table by Mahdavi. A Los Cabos, Mexico, home designed by Olson Kundig Architects and Terry Hunziker incorporates an overhead alder trellis in its double-height living room, which opens to the beach. An entrance hall in a Los Angeles home, renovated by Oscar Shamamian and Michael S. Smith, blends American and English furniture with contemporary art. A Russian country retreat by Gabhan O’Keeffe features a drawing room with a double sofa and Charles Edwards floor lamps. In a Manhattan duplex by ODA-Architecture, a Luceplan USA light fixture illuminates a double-height living room with Poltrona Frau sofas and a marble cocktail table. Frédéric Fekkai and Shirin von Wulffen's villa near Aix-en-Provence includes a double-height solarium with a Marie Christophe chandelier and antique furniture. Darren Star's Hollywood home, renovated by Mark Rios and Waldo Fernandez, has a double-height family room centered around a bronze-clad fireplace. A Manhattan apartment by David Mann features a splendidly austere double-height entrance hall with an Hervé Van der Straeten pendant light and gray onyx floors. An Aspen getaway by William Sofield showcases a double-height living room with custom-made sofas and a blackened-steel cocktail table. Francis D’Haene transformed a barn-inspired home in Remsenburg, New York, into a minimalist haven with a double-height living area. Finally, a Manhattan penthouse by Delphine Krakoff and Mark Ferguson features a double-height tower room with George Smith sofas and a vintage Tobia Scarpa cocktail table. These examples collectively demonstrate the versatility and aesthetic impact of double-height ceilings in creating dramatic and functional interior spaces. #DoubleHeightCeilings #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalElements #LivingRooms #DesignInspiration #HighCeilings #RoomDrama