You Can Make Your Walls Look Like a Metro Station’s Ceiling

Houston interior designers emphasize the importance of ceilings as a crucial design element, often referred to as a room’s “fifth wall.” Historically, traditional design incorporated ceilings into decor, a practice that simplified during the midcentury contemporary era, leaving ceilings predominantly white and undecorated. However, there's a resurgence in treating ceilings as a canvas for design, moving beyond basic white paint to explore more intricate possibilities. Paint remains a cost-effective option, with designers like Sandy Lucas of Lucas/Eilers Design Associates recommending soft blues such as Farrow & Ball Skylight or Benjamin Moore Yarmouth Blue. This technique, commonly used in Southern porches to mimic the sky, can also contribute to a serene indoor atmosphere. Beyond paint, other alternatives include coffered ceiling treatments, exposed beams and trusses, plaster finishes, and wallpaper. Linda Eyles of Linda Eyles Design discovered the transformative power of wallpapered ceilings during a show house project. She observed that visitors were initially impressed by the room's overall aesthetic but were truly captivated once they looked up at the ceiling. This led her to incorporate wallpaper into various client projects, including a guest bedroom where floral wallpaper in plum and peacock blue framed with matching crown molding created a dramatic effect. Eyles highlights that while chandeliers have traditionally been the primary ceiling adornment, current trends allow for much greater creativity, even suggesting lacquered ceilings in powder bathrooms for added sparkle. Another innovative approach involved hand-painted Porter Teleo wallpaper in a client's retreat, featuring gold streaks on an eggplant purple background, reminiscent of the Japanese art of kintsugi. Both Lucas and Sarah Eilers, her founding design partner, view the ceiling as an integral part of a room's overall decor. They explain that proper ceiling treatment and color can alter the perception of a room's size; lighter colors can make small rooms feel larger and more open, while deep, rich colors can create a more intimate atmosphere in larger spaces. Architecturally, homeowners can elevate a room's ceiling height by utilizing unused attic space or incorporating vaulted or groin-vaulted ceilings, finishing them with paint, natural stone, or brick. The use of authentic reclaimed wood beams, salvaged from old barns, can introduce significant warmth and character, creating an aged appearance in new constructions. Eilers applied this concept in a Park City, Utah, project, using hand-hewn beams throughout a new home to impart an Old World charm. The article concludes by stressing that planning ceiling treatments during new construction offers the widest range of choices, allowing designers to integrate these elements seamlessly from the outset, rather than as an afterthought in a finished home. #HomeDesign #CeilingTreatments #InteriorDesign #Wallpaper #ReclaimedWood #PaintColors #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeDecor

This article details a budget-friendly home decor hack that allows individuals to create striking geometric feature walls using readily available and inexpensive materials. The method involves applying masking tape to a wall in a random pattern and then painting the exposed segments with paint from tester pots. This technique has gained popularity online, particularly within the 'Extreme Budget DIY & Life Hacks' social media group, where users share their successful projects. The process begins with ensuring a neutral base, ideally a white or cream wall, as this color will form the stripes visible once the masking tape is removed. After preparing the wall, strips of masking tape are applied to create a desired geometric design. While standard £1 masking tape is commonly used, some individuals opt for frog tape, which, despite being slightly more expensive, is reported to offer superior bleed prevention, leading to crisper lines. Once the tape pattern is established, the sections are painted using various colors from tester pots, which typically cost between £1 and £2 each. The article highlights that the cost of this project is minimal, often under £20, with some individuals spending as little as £1 by utilizing leftover paints from previous decorating endeavors. After applying the paint, sometimes requiring multiple coats depending on the chosen shades, it is crucial to allow the paint to dry completely. Once dry, the masking tape is carefully removed to reveal the sharp, defined geometric pattern underneath. The article showcases several examples of successful applications, including Emma Hughes, who spent only £1 on masking tape and used existing paint to achieve a pleasing geometric wall. Another example is Leanne, who adapted the hack for her twin sons' room by adding Marvel stickers to the painted sections, creating a themed and personalized space that the boys love. Anya Louise Danson-Jarvis also shared her positive experience, expressing enthusiasm to apply the technique throughout her home. The affordability and creative potential of this hack make it an attractive option for those looking to update their living spaces without a significant financial outlay. By leveraging inexpensive materials and a simple technique, individuals can transform plain walls into dynamic focal points, demonstrating that impactful home decoration doesn't necessarily require a large budget. #HomeDecor #DIYHacks #BudgetDecor #FeatureWall #GeometricPattern #MaskingTapeArt #PaintTesterPots #InteriorDesign

This article highlights various 3D wall art options to enhance home interiors, moving beyond traditional art prints to introduce depth and texture. It features ten distinct pieces, each offering a unique aesthetic and functionality. The Project 62 Gold Decorative Wall Sculpture from Target, priced at $30, presents a mid-century modern feel with its burnished gold, angled metallic leaves that interact with light to create a multi-tonal effect. Despite its delicate appearance, it is noted for its sturdy construction. Next, the Umbra Prisma Decorative Accents, a set of six wire-frame gems available on Amazon for $36, offer versatility in gold, copper, or black, suitable for holding flameless tea lights or air plants, and can even be combined to form lightbulb pendants. West Elm's Floating Brass Shapes Wall Art, originally $249 and now $100, showcases three interlocking, hand-poured metal shapes with a brass finish, designed to be oriented in various ways to evoke different sentiments. The UncommonGoods Fire Escape Shelf, reduced from $129 to $99, merges form and function, mimicking urban fire escapes to provide a unique display for small potted plants. World Market's Gold Metal Leaf Wall Decor, available for $10, introduces a naturalistic touch with its golden, corrugated iron frond, complementing spaces rich in plant life. The Benzara Flock of Birds Wall Installation, costing $92 on Amazon, provides a minimalist, sturdy iron depiction of sea birds, suitable for various decor styles. Pier 1 Imports' Natural Woven Round Wall Decor, priced at $100, is a substantial sunburst-like sculpture, over 3 feet in diameter, crafted from cornhusk to bring natural softness indoors without overwhelming the space. CB2's Graham Wire Wall Art, discounted from $100 to $40, is a brass-plated steel sculpture designed to appear to float, offering a fresh perspective on a blank wall due to its lightweight build and easy mounting. The Home Sweet Home 3D Cursive Wall Décor from AllModern, at $62, adds a brass-colored, hand-scripted touch, ideal for an entryway. Lastly, the Grandin Road Aspen Metal Art, available for $199, is a woodland-inspired metal sculpture celebrated for its airy, naturalistic look, intricate detailing, and high quality despite its higher price point. These selections collectively offer diverse ways to integrate three-dimensional elements into home decor, providing visual interest and adding character to any room. #3DWallArt #HomeDecor #WallSculpture #InteriorDesign #DecorativeAccents #ModernHome #MetallicArt #UniqueShelving #ArtisticDecor

Walls, often overlooked in interior design, are fundamental elements that can profoundly influence the aesthetic and atmosphere of a space. Rather than serving merely as structural partitions or backdrops for art, walls can be transformed into key decorative features that impart historical context, modern sophistication, architectural interest, or practical benefits such as sound insulation. This article explores a variety of innovative wall treatments that move beyond conventional plain-white surfaces, offering creative solutions to elevate interior spaces. One of the most accessible and impactful ways to refresh a room is through paint. Whether opting for a uniform solid color, employing a vibrant hue for an accent wall, or creating dynamic visual effects like stripes, paint offers versatility and ease of application, allowing for frequent updates to match changing tastes. Beyond paint, wallpaper presents an opportunity to introduce patterns and textures. From romantic florals to bold graphic designs, wallpaper can be applied to walls, ceilings, or even framed as art, with careful consideration of pattern scale and color to modulate intensity within a room. Fabric-covered walls introduce a luxurious and tactile dimension. Materials such as grass cloth, linen, or silk add immediate texture and a formal touch. A less obvious benefit of fabric wall coverings, especially when combined with batting or padding, is their ability to significantly reduce ambient noise, contributing to a more tranquil environment. Wood paneling offers an elegant upgrade that enhances warmth. The design possibilities range from contemporary to traditional, dictated by the size, stain, and arrangement of the panels. Molding, often underestimated, can dramatically refine a room's character. Adding a chair rail in a dining area or crown molding in a living space can create a more formal aesthetic, while applying panel molding to flat doors can infuse traditional charm. Plaster, whether a polished Venetian finish or a matte grooved texture, introduces depth and dimension. Its characteristic mottled appearance provides subtle variations and visual interest, effectively breaking the monotony of large, unadorned walls. For a highly personalized touch, decorative painting, including murals, landscapes, trompe l’oeil effects, faux bois, and gold leaf applications, can imbue a space with unique personality and artistic flair. Mirrors serve a dual purpose of aesthetic enhancement and spatial illusion. Strategically placed mirrors can reflect light, making a room appear larger and brighter. A wall composed of mirrored panels, particularly those with an antiqued finish, adds a sophisticated patina and contemporary elegance. Finally, tile, traditionally used in kitchens and bathrooms, has evolved into a versatile design element. Modern tile options include porcelain mimicking wood, durable marble slabs, and decorative terra-cotta in various colors and patterns. Creative application techniques can further transform tile into a striking graphic statement, making it suitable for a wider array of interior settings beyond its conventional uses. These diverse treatments collectively demonstrate how walls can be reimagined as integral components of a cohesive and engaging interior design. #InteriorDesign #WallTreatments #HomeDecor #DesignIdeas #Wallpaper #WoodPaneling #DecorativePainting #FabricWalls #PlasterWalls

The article explores the emerging trend of using three-dimensional wooden geometric shapes to enhance interior design, moving beyond traditional two-dimensional patterns like checkered tiles, painted murals, and removable wallpaper. This innovative approach adds depth, texture, and visual interest to otherwise plain walls and window frames, offering a more dynamic aesthetic for home decor. Artist and blogger Liz Kamarul is highlighted as a pioneer in this trend, showcasing several of her projects that integrate wooden shapes. One notable example is her living room, where she transformed a wall into a 3D artwork using black-painted plywood triangles. These triangles were affixed to an already black wall, creating a subtle yet impactful tone-on-tone effect. Kamarul's design is distinctive because she did not cover the entire wall uniformly; instead, she arranged the triangles to form an asymmetrical, sculptural pattern that spread out from one side of the wall. This unconventional approach, initially accidental, demonstrates how embracing eclecticism can lead to unique and personalized results. Kamarul's creativity extends to other areas of her home, including a bathroom nook where she utilized scrap wood squares to create a checkerboard pattern. This particular project, using unfinished wood, added significant texture and visual interest to a compact space. The design was completed with a matching shelf, adorned with various art pieces and objects. While the article notes that these wooden pieces could be painted in multiple colors, Kamarul's choice of natural wood tones complemented her busy patterned wallpaper, illustrating the versatility of the material and technique. Another example from Kamarul's living room features white-coated triangles arranged around a window frame, pointed outwards. This application provides an unexpected and playful way to decorate windows, offering a stylish alternative to traditional window treatments. These examples collectively demonstrate the potential for wooden geometric cutouts to create distinct focal points and add character to different rooms. Beyond Kamarul's work, the article references Brittany Jepsen of The House That Lars Built, who applied a similar concept in her dining room. Jepsen used squares and circles to create a whimsical pattern on her faux wainscoting, which was then painted a calming blue to match the room's existing trim. When combined with floral wallpaper, these geometric shapes contribute to an even more playful and imaginative ambiance within the space. The article concludes by suggesting various applications for this trend. It proposes that 3D geometric wooden shapes would be an excellent addition to children's playrooms or nurseries, given their inherently playful nature. Furthermore, it highlights their potential to elevate utilitarian spaces such as mudrooms or home offices, suggesting that they could even serve as a chic and engaging backdrop for video calls. This trend offers a customizable and creative solution for individuals looking to infuse their homes with a fresh, modern, and artistic touch, moving beyond conventional wall decor options to explore more dimensional and personalized designs. #DIYHomeDecor #GeometricDesign #InteriorTrends #WallTreatments #WoodenDecor #HomeProjects #DecoratingIdeas #LizKamarul #BrittanyJepsen

Many individuals find blank walls uninspiring, and while acquiring art or installing wallpaper can be costly and challenging, creating a mural offers an accessible and personal alternative. This article showcases the experiences and techniques of four DIY mural artists, demonstrating various approaches to transforming interior walls into artistic canvases. Luiza Solano, for instance, embraced a "bold and blocky" style for a closet mural in her Miami Airbnb. Working within a budget, she found inspiration in color references, particularly from a boutique hotel in Oaxaca, Mexico. Solano directly sketched lines onto the wall with a pencil, refining the composition until it achieved balance. To plan the wraparound mural's palette, she utilized a wide-angle photo and an image-editing app. Her final choice involved nine complementary colors, with three shades of blue created by mixing different amounts of white paint to maintain tonal consistency. Despite her initial inexperience, Solano "trusted the process" and layered an off-white, matte-finish paint from Behr in Shoelace over the entire mural to produce a "faux limewash effect." She noted that color blocking provided a high-design aesthetic without significant difficulty. Clare Sullivan, an interior designer and home-improvement content creator, adopted a "stencil and stamp" method for her Cape Cod-style house in Connecticut. Her goal was to achieve a wallpaper-like effect at a fraction of the cost. Sullivan sourced stencil templates online, recommending buying multiples to expedite the process. For color selection, she typically chooses a main color, a complementary shade, and two accent colors. Prior to stenciling, she repainted the room white and meticulously measured to create a symmetrical, wallpaper-like grid. Her essential tools included a bowl of water, cut kitchen sponges, the original wall paint for touch-ups, and Scotch Spray Mount Adhesive, which she preferred over painter's tape for its clean removal. Sullivan emphasized dabbing paint gently to prevent bleeding under the template and suggested cutting stencils for awkward spaces. She believes DIY projects are rewarding and cost-effective. Sydney Moss, a Brooklyn-based interior designer, chose to "split it in half" by painting a low mural in her narrow hallway. This design created a trompe l’oeil chair rail, effectively dividing the space and allowing her to paint while seated. Inspired by her gardening hobby, Moss freehanded marigolds using leftover sample paints, opting for Behr’s Dynasty paint line for its one-coat primer, fast-drying properties, and scuff resistance, which is ideal for rental properties. She acknowledged a learning curve, expressing a future intention to apply a base coat first. Moss approached her rental project with a Zen mindset, accepting that the mural might eventually be painted over. Following an unexpected move, she embarked on a new project: a floor-to-ceiling mural of trees in her windowless office, drawing on psychological research suggesting that nature imagery can promote calm and reduce anxiety. Finally, Brooklyn artist Laura Chautin used a "bits and bobs" approach to create whimsical mural vignettes around her bed. During her first trimester of pregnancy, she painted imaginative scenes with her usual art supplies, including acrylics. Rather than a full wall mural, she strategically positioned illustrations to frame her bed, avoiding the need to move furniture. Her height limitations influenced the scope of the paintings. Chautin’s murals, like her ceramic goods, are highly detailed, featuring moody clouds, blooming trees, and footpaths, all rendered in her characteristic color palette of pinks, reds, and greens. The existing warm white walls and Japanese pendant lights provided a pleasant backdrop, influencing the overall effect of her artwork. #DIYMurals #WallArt #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #CreativeProjects #BudgetDecor #Stenciling #ColorBlocking #ArtisticHomes

Wall panelling has long been a popular decorative choice, adding elegance to interiors. However, traditional methods can be costly and labor-intensive. This article explores six budget-friendly and ingenious ways to achieve the wall panelling look without the expense or difficulty of conventional installation. One approach involves using alternative materials. While wood is typical, options such as slim metal strips can create an industrial or modern effect. Mirrored or acrylic sheets cut into panel-like sections offer a high-end, reflective, and contemporary twist. Fabric-covered or padded boards provide a luxurious, upholstered finish, adding softness, texture, and even soundproofing. Linen offers a classic look, velvet a rich aesthetic, and faux leather an edgy touch, allowing for diverse stylistic expressions. Another method is the use of wallpaper. Modern textured wallpapers can convincingly mimic 3D panelling effects, making it an excellent quick and less permanent solution. These wallpapers are available in various patterns, including shaker and slatted styles, and come in a range of colors, eliminating the need for additional painting. Hanging wallpaper is often considered easier than installing traditional wood panelling, saving both effort and time. Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) panels offer a cost-effective and versatile option. MDF is inexpensive, has a smooth sanded surface, and provides a precise finish. Enthusiasts can purchase full MDF sheets and cut them to size, or opt for pre-cut MDF panelling kits for easier installation. These kits, combined with adhesive, can create a seamless, durable finish that can be painted to resemble real wood or any desired aesthetic, allowing for creative freedom. Beading provides a way to replicate the intricate details of Victorian-style panelling without significant expense. Traditionally used for door frames and skirting boards, beading can be cut to size with a mitre saw and adhered to walls to form decorative rectangular panels. Pre-cut adhesive moulding strips are also available, offering a simple way to create a classic wainscoting style. This method allows for a detailed look at a fraction of the cost of professional installation. Utilizing photo frames presents a unique and low-effort solution for faux panelling. By removing the inserts from picture frames and adhering the frames directly to the wall, a panelled effect can be achieved with minimal DIY. This technique offers a straightforward way to add visual interest and structure to a wall, especially for those seeking a quick and simple transformation. Sourcing bargain frames from charity shops or in bulk can further reduce costs. Finally, paint can be used to create the illusion of wall panelling. This method involves using masking tape to delineate rectangular sections on the wall, which are then painted in contrasting or complementary shades. This approach saves space, as it doesn't add any physical depth to the wall, and can be achieved with creative vision and even tester pots of paint, making it a highly budget-friendly option. By using different colors or varying shades, a striking visual effect can be created that mimics the depth and structure of actual panels. These innovative techniques provide accessible and affordable alternatives to traditional wall panelling, enabling individuals to enhance their home decor with elevated style and personality. #WallPanelling #DIYHomeDecor #BudgetDecorating #InteriorDesignHacks #WallpaperIdeas #MDFPanels #BeadingTechniques #FauxPanelling #HomeRenovation #PaintEffects

Houston interior designer Cathy Hutton emphasizes the often-neglected potential of ceilings in home design, coining it the "fifth wall." During her presentation at Access Design, a quarterly event hosted by the Houston Chronicle and the Houston Design District, Hutton provided five key tips to transform ceilings from a blank canvas into an integral design element. These strategies range from subtle enhancements to bold statements, capable of significantly altering a room's perception. One fundamental tip involves the strategic use of paint colors. Hutton suggests extending wall and trim colors to the ceiling, even with deep or saturated hues. For dramatic colors, she advises using the ceiling paint at 50% strength to maintain visual continuity without overwhelming the space. She specifically recommends flat paint for ceilings and an eggshell finish for walls and trim, noting that this approach creates a cohesive look. Hutton reassures that experimenting with bold ceiling colors is a low-risk endeavor, as repainting is not a significant investment. For homes from the 1960s and 1970s, which often feature lower 8-foot ceilings, Hutton proposes raising them to create a sense of openness. This process involves removing the existing ceiling and reframing it to align with the roof's pitch or incorporating a tray ceiling to add a couple of feet of height. This architectural modification can dramatically transform the feel of an enclosed space, making it appear more expansive and modern. Adding texture is another powerful way to elevate a ceiling's design. Beyond the outdated "cottage cheese" finish, Hutton advocates for materials like wood planks, beams, shiplap, or even reclaimed flooring and scraped fence wood to introduce unique visual and tactile elements. She highlights a farmhouse project where pressed tin panels, subsequently painted, were used to create a distinctive ceiling, demonstrating the versatility of textured applications. Stenciling offers a contemporary approach to ceiling decoration, moving beyond traditional methods. Hutton utilizes both custom-designed and purchased stencil patterns to create geometric designs that can suit modern aesthetics. She notes that these patterns can also be integrated into traditional homes for a touch of updated style. An example includes a two-tone floral pattern designed for a modern homeowner seeking to incorporate traditional elements. For a more understated effect, geometric patterns can be applied specifically within tray ceiling squares or rectangles. Finally, wallpaper is presented as an effective tool for creating visual interest on ceilings. While florals and abstract designs are popular choices, Hutton suggests exploring wallpapers that mimic other textures and finishes. She cited an instance where wallpaper designed to look like shiplap was used, providing a cost-effective and easier-to-install alternative to actual shiplap. These methods collectively underscore the importance of treating the ceiling as a crucial component of a room's overall design, capable of enhancing ambiance, space perception, and aesthetic appeal. #InteriorDesign #CeilingDesign #HomeDecor #Renovation #ArchitecturalDetail #PaintColors #TexturedCeilings #Stenciling #Wallpaper

The article discusses the growing trend of painted ceilings, often referred to as the “fifth wall,” and provides comprehensive guidance on how to execute this design element effectively. It emphasizes that while an accent wall might be a common DIY project, painting a ceiling is a more challenging but ultimately rewarding endeavor that can significantly enhance a room's dimension and character. According to designer Emilie Munroe of Studio Munroe, a painted ceiling creates an unexpected and impactful visual statement. To assist readers in planning, preparing, and executing such a project, the article compiles advice from both a paint professional and an interior design expert, drawing inspiration from ELLE Decor's archives. The first crucial step involves general precautions, as painting a ceiling is not a frequent task. Jamie Davis, co-founder of Portola Paints & Glazes, advises careful consideration when selecting a color and finish. Even a subtle change, like a shade darker or lighter than the walls, can make a noticeable difference. The article clarifies the use of paint types, stating that while wall paint can be used for ceilings, designers often opt for different finishes to create subtle contrast. It is generally recommended to paint the ceiling before the walls to avoid issues with overspray. If a darker accent color is chosen for the ceiling or the walls are not being painted, a thin plastic sheet should be draped over the walls for protection. Preparation of the space is essential to manage inevitable paint drips. This involves securing drop cloths on the floor and wearing protective gear like a hat and safety glasses. Davis suggests using inexpensive clear-lens glasses and a hat or bandana to prevent paint from getting into hair. Color selection is another key aspect discussed. A white ceiling can brighten and open up a room, while a darker shade can create a cozier atmosphere. For smaller rooms, lighter colors are advised to prevent a claustrophobic feel. Emilie Munroe recommends jewel tones like cobalt, emerald, and raspberry for ceilings, especially when complemented by crown molding that frames the accent color. Lighting plays a significant role in how ceiling colors and finishes appear. Jamie Davis notes that light sources and temperature greatly influence the perception of colors. Emilie Munroe adds that a sculptural central chandelier is ideal for a painted ceiling, as it draws the eye upward. The article suggests experimenting with different light bulbs to find the best reflection against the chosen ceiling shade and finish. The article also touches upon design style compatibility, asserting that a painted ceiling can work with various aesthetics. For a high-impact look, choosing a complementary color from wallpaper is recommended. For a modern style, any color from an accent piece can beautifully complement white walls. When it comes to gloss levels, Davis typically recommends an ultra-flat paint for ceilings to hide imperfections and minimize light reflection. While flat or matte finishes are effective for concealing flaws, a high-gloss lacquer finish can bounce light and create the illusion of a higher ceiling. However, achieving a high-gloss look requires an incredibly smooth surface, free of drywall seams, to avoid highlighting imperfections. For those painting an entire room, the advice is to start with the ceiling and then work downward to the walls. If only the ceiling is being painted, painter's tape should be applied around the edges to prevent drips. Finally, when using a roller, a thinner nap is recommended to avoid excessive dripping on smooth ceilings. A deeper nap can be used for textured ceilings. It is crucial to get as close to the ceiling as possible and use a short, light roller to minimize strain. Davis emphasizes removing as much furniture as possible from the room to protect it from overspray, noting that failing to do so can make the project arduous. #PaintedCeilings #HomeDecor #DIYProjects #InteriorDesign #PaintSelection #RoomTransformation #ColorTrends #HomeRenovation

Designers are increasingly focusing on the often-overlooked 'fifth wall' – the ceiling – to introduce unique design elements and elevate interior spaces. The ceiling, traditionally painted white, is now being transformed with wallpapers, fabrics, murals, and even architectural treatments to add character, depth, and visual interest to rooms. This trend is showcased through various examples from interior design professionals. Kim Hoegger, a Dallas designer, utilized her own textile and wallcovering collection in the Hillside Designer Show House in Greensboro, N.C., extending Thybony paper from the walls up and around the ceiling. This creates a cohesive look, complemented by large-scale Buffalo check on pillows and a smaller scale on draperies, with the pattern continuing into an adjacent bathroom for continuity. Australian designer Greg Natale brought a glamorous feel to a space by applying a gold herringbone pattern to the ceiling. This striking ceiling treatment is balanced by a modern abstract rug by Kelly Wearstler. The room's color scheme is further enhanced by hot pink upholstery on Tom Dixon wingback chairs, which echo the colors in the Damien Hirst art on the wall and other artworks, a design featured on the cover of Design + Decoration magazine. In a San Francisco show house study/den, designer Susan Chastain drew inspiration from an ombre drapery fabric to establish the room's color palette. A subtle hint of apricot was incorporated into the ceiling, complementing the wall painting by Willem Racke, which references 1960s geometric art, and a boldly patterned rug on the floor. Another example features a bathroom where a modern suspended vanity is set against gray and white striped stone. The ceiling becomes a focal point with a vibrant floral pattern on a dark background by Stephan Blachowski, providing a dramatic contrast and visual pop. A powder room in the San Francisco Decorator Showcase was brightened by a whimsical montage of lips from artist George Venson for Voutsa, extending from the walls onto the ceiling, creating an immersive and playful atmosphere. For a nursery designed by Dina Bandman for the San Francisco Decorator Showcase, a lattice-covered ceiling creates a garden-like backdrop. This is paired with a custom hand-painted and sequin-embellished paper with a lemon motif from de Gournay. Tailored arched window treatments were also hand-painted in the same pattern, with branches ascending towards the latticed ceiling. Denise McGaha addressed the challenge of creating intimacy in a spacious bedroom with tall ceilings by papering the walls with a gray Phillip Jeffries grass cloth featuring silvery threads. The vaulted ceiling was then clad in a Phillip Jeffries paper with geometric silver and gold squares, adding a warm glow and an intimate ambiance. The room also features a Le Grande stone mantel from McGaha's new collection for Materials Marketing. In a room for the Savannah Southern Style Now show house, Denise McGaha covered the ceiling with lush green lily pads. The green theme continued on the walls, and was accented with peach draperies in a 'Beta' pattern from her new collection for Design Legacy, which evokes the swirling tail of a Betta fish. Jamie Drake opted for a soft shade of boysenberry mousse for a ceiling, pulling out pink tones from the rug and fabrics, contrasting with a hand-blocked wallpaper in light spring green. Alexa Hampton's 'Olympia Folly' show house space featured custom swagged paper by de Gournay on the walls, with a ceiling mural by Chuck Fischer. The trompe l'oeil swag on the walls seamlessly blends into real swag draperies made from Cowtan and Tout fabric. Mark D. Sikes created a cocooning effect in a small vestibule at the Kips Bay Show House by 'tenting' the ceiling and walls with Schumacher's Ojai Stripe in Prussian blue, trimmed with French grosgrain ribbon from Samuel and Sons. Barbara Ostrom incorporated a modern surprise into a traditional room at Kips Bay by commissioning a decorative ceiling mural by Andrew Tedesco, inspired by Frank Stella's work. This integrated tones from the art and walls in a contemporary way, with peach, high-gloss painted walls brightening a formerly dark room. Finally, Jamie Drake and Caleb Anderson wrapped both walls and ceiling beams in a textured fabric with a sheen from Lelievre, distributed by Scalamandre and hand-beaded by Ankasa. The ceiling itself was covered with Holland and Sherry wallpaper featuring a subtle gold-flecked pattern, demonstrating a layered approach to ceiling design. #CeilingDesign #InteriorDecoration #HomeStyle #DesignerShowcase #Wallpaper #TextileDesign #RoomTransformation #LuxuryInteriors #InnovativeCeilings

The article highlights a growing trend among interior designers and clients to move away from plain, flat-painted walls towards more textured finishes. Sondra Ganz of Studio Ganz notes that many clients are requesting walls with more visual interest, finding traditional painted walls to be boring. Textured walls offer a more transportive and bespoke feel, though they typically involve a longer-term commitment and may influence decor choices more significantly than a simple paint color. Several creative and daring designers shared their approaches to incorporating texture into wall designs. Becky Shea, an interior designer, advocates for bringing the outdoors in by using reeded wood paneling. In one bedroom, she installed reeded walnut paneling that extends behind the bed and onto the ceiling, creating a warm, enveloping effect. This method adds depth and visual interest without relying on traditional wallcoverings, resulting in an elevated and timeless space. Rachael Gowdridge introduced a unique method for uniform tiled walls, moving beyond typical high-gloss drama. She designed bespoke tiles inspired by a 19th-century yew tree sprig, using a repeat pattern to add whimsy. The bright white base of the tiles keeps the room feeling fresh, and extending the tiling to a monolithic basin shelf simplifies finishes and adds playfulness, especially effective in small spaces. Grasscloth is presented as a middle ground between paint and wallpaper, offering the solidity of paint with the dimension of wallpaper. Gowdridge utilized a rich green grasscloth to create a lived-in, layered feel in a room. She explained that grasscloth's natural variations in tone and weave instantly make walls more sophisticated, adding a tactile quality that softens the space and provides warmth without overwhelming the eye. Fabric folding screens, or room dividers, are suggested as a cost-effective way to add texture and define spaces. Marty Dykas used a fabric-covered custom screen to separate a dressing area from a bedroom and serve as a headboard, enhancing the visual appeal of a highly visible flat. The silky-smooth fabric of the screen contributes significant texture. Andy Barlow, head of interior design at Thesis Architecture, embraced original wood paneling in a family home built in 1914. This preserved architectural element served as a key design feature, influencing the decision to keep the kitchen light and bright to balance the darker, cozy wood tones on the main floor, ensuring the original character of the house was maintained. Exposed painted brick is another textural element discussed. Anshu Bangia, co-founder of Bangia Agostinho Architecture DPC, uncovered existing brick walls in a historic Brooklyn kitchen during renovation. Repaired and incorporated into the new design, the painted brick added texture and depth, acting as a light, airy backdrop in the open kitchen and along the stair hall, connecting all levels vertically. Patterned wallpaper remains a classic choice for adding personality and depth to walls. Miranda Cullen, a Colorado-based designer, frequently uses wallpaper in her projects. She noted that patterned wallpaper can highlight architectural features, add personality, or enhance a color palette. For example, in a breakfast nook, a subtle blue patterned wallpaper softened sharp architectural lines and created a cheerful backdrop, proving wallpaper's ability to add refined character without being overwhelming. #InteriorDesign #WallDecor #TexturedWalls #HomeRenovation #DesignTrends #Wallpaper #WoodPaneling #TileDesign #Grasscloth

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

Minneapolis-based tile company Mercury Mosaics has launched a new midcentury-modern tile design called "Mid Mod Squares." This design, described as nostalgic, geometric, colorful, unique, and refined, aims to infuse a vintage yet fresh aesthetic into interior spaces. The collection is priced at $69 per square foot and is composed of a distinctive combination of small semicircles, mini subway tiles, and classic squares. Kristen Torres Korman, the creative director at Mercury Mosaics, highlights the intentional placement of these accent tiles. They are arranged to create a "tossed" or random surface pattern, ensuring a unique aesthetic. When these tile sheets are rotated and repeated, the result is a custom, organic, and nonlinear design, offering a personalized touch that differentiates it from mass-produced options. This approach ensures that each installation possesses a distinct character. Mercedes Austin, the founder and CEO of Mercury Mosaics, reflects on the inspiration behind the Mid Mod Squares, associating it with her parents' era as art school graduates. She notes how her parents seamlessly integrated midcentury-modern flair into a home with a contrasting architectural style, demonstrating the versatility and timeless appeal of the design. For Austin, patterns inspired by midcentury design evoke a sense of wonder and inspiration, suggesting a connection to a creative heritage. Customers have the option to select from four premade house blends, which offer curated color combinations. Alternatively, they can customize their own patterns using a technologically advanced "blend" tool available on the Mercury Mosaics website. This tool allows for experimentation with an infinite number of made-to-order color combinations, empowering clients to personalize their tile selections to perfectly match their interior design visions and preferences. This new tile collection provides a versatile solution for interior designers and homeowners looking to incorporate a blend of vintage charm and contemporary sophistication into their spaces. The emphasis on customizability and the unique, non-repeating patterns ensures that each application of Mid Mod Squares can become a distinctive focal point in any room. The blend tool facilitates creative exploration, making it accessible for individuals to design a tile arrangement that is truly their own. #MercuryMosaics #MidModSquares #TileDesign #MidcenturyModern #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CustomTile #MinneapolisDesign #GeometricTiles

While color is frequently the initial consideration when a home appears dull or flat, texture offers an equally, if not more, effective method for enhancing a room's vibrancy. Introducing texture to a space not only adds depth and dimension but also provides benefits that even color-averse decorators can appreciate. This approach extends beyond merely incorporating throws, rugs, and fabrics. By dressing walls with natural materials such as marble and wood, or utilizing paints and wallpapers that create perceived texture effects, a room can be instantly revitalized without occupying additional surface space. There are numerous creative ways to achieve wall texture. One method involves using optical illusions, such as a printed wallpaper with pearlized ink dots that mimic nailheads, as seen in a sitting room designed by Cameron Ruppert Interiors. Another option is whitewashing wood panels; if existing paneled walls need brightening, diluting paint with water and applying it with a brush, then wiping and repeating, can achieve the desired lighter shade. For a unique three-dimensional effect, paint can be applied with a flat plaster paddle instead of a roller or brush, transforming a wall into a work of art, as exemplified by a light mossy green wall in a Studio Flack design. Grasscloth wallpaper is a versatile choice, offering both printed and neutral options. A block-printed grasscloth, like the Lee Jofa selection in a California sunroom by Heather Hilliard, adds rich, dimensional texture, while a neutral grasscloth, made from natural fibers, provides warmth and more texture than other wallpaper types. Lacquered paint, with its glossy finish, can make a room feel larger by reflecting light, similar to a mirror. For enhanced comfort and sound dampening, walls can be padded with velvet, especially when installed over cotton batting, creating a luxurious and acoustically favorable environment. Mirrored walls not only enlarge a room visually but also offer an interesting backdrop for artwork, particularly antiqued mirrors which exude a glamorous feel. Faux animal skin wallpapers, such as a Ralph Lauren faux crocodile wallpaper used by designer Tom Stringer, introduce texture and a striking element to clean, classic spaces. Beyond traditional wall coverings, neutral tiles can be used outside bathrooms and kitchens, lined up on a wall in clay hues to add dimension. Concrete effect paint offers an edgy, matte texture, especially in darker tones, providing a subtle yet bold aesthetic. Embracing existing architectural elements, such as exposed brick, can create a lived-in feel. For those who find the industrial look too stark, adding splashes of paint or a wallpaper accent, combined with upholstered pieces, can introduce warmth. Large marble slabs can be incorporated into a wall to make a sophisticated statement, offering a formal yet textured aesthetic. Color-blocking with tiles can be achieved by tiling only half a wall, creating a unique transition from floor to wall, particularly effective with hexagonal patterns. For a soft, dreamy ambiance in a bedroom, upholstering walls is an option. Instead of covering the entire wall, contrasting fabric with materials like wood or concrete can add visual interest. Finally, layering multiple textures, such as color-blocked wood panels with tiles, can create an intriguing three-dimensional look. To maintain harmony, it is advisable to stick to neutral tones when employing multiple layers, preventing a chaotic appearance. #WallTexture #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RoomDecor #DesignInspiration #Wallpaper #PaintEffects #NaturalMaterials #SpaceEnhancement

Tambour paneling, a wall treatment made from wooden slats connected to create a continuous, flexible surface, is gaining popularity as a fresh alternative to traditional wallpaper and paint. This sleek, tactile, and contemporary approach offers a distinctive three-dimensional look due to its fluted woodcuts, allowing each slat to move independently. It comes in two main varieties: bead tambour, with its rounded, classic fluted design, and slat tambour, featuring flat-faced planks. Unlike rigid paneling, tambour is flexible and adaptable to various architectural styles, including curved surfaces. Designers recommend using tambour paneling on curved walls or architectural pillars to create a striking design feature. Its flexibility allows it to conform to rounded walls, cabinetry, and columns, providing smooth, uninterrupted texture and a polished finish. Pernille Lyk from Københavns Møbelsnedkeri highlights its practical aspect for concealing workspaces and the aesthetic appeal of unbroken slat sequences. The ease of installation makes it a DIY-friendly project. Another application is creating a feature wall by applying tambour paneling from floor to ceiling. This adds texture, depth, and warmth, serving as a focal point that enhances the room's design more effectively than paint. Darker wood options, such as walnut, are suggested to achieve a refined retro-inspired look reminiscent of 1970s chic interiors. The article points out that the trickiest part of installation is accurate measurement, with gluing and nailing being straightforward steps. Tambour paneling can also be used in bathrooms as an alternative to traditional tiles, creating a serene, spa-like atmosphere. Pascale De Fouchier, an interior designer, explains that the vertical lines of tambour can make a room feel more spacious and bring warmth and continuity. Lighter wood choices can complement existing cabinetry and contrast with soft-toned countertops and floors. Additionally, tambour paneling is emerging as a trend for headboards, offering a relatively simple way to make a significant statement in bedrooms. Its versatility allows for customization in size and finish, accommodating various design schemes. Both vertical and horizontal installations can be impactful, with vertical panels potentially adding perceived height to a room, as noted by interior designer Monica Tostes. For those who find a feature wall too overwhelming, incorporating tambour into furniture, especially built-in cabinets, is an excellent way to introduce the trend in smaller doses. Historically used in furniture design since the 1700s, tambour can elevate functional pieces into stunning design elements. Oliver Haslegrave from Child Studio emphasizes how it offers a refined, understated detail that makes storage more playful and engaging. Tambour paneling offers a versatile solution to enhance interior spaces, providing a sophisticated alternative to paint and wallpaper. Its adaptability to various applications, from curved walls to furniture, makes it suitable for diverse design styles, including modern, mid-century, and traditional aesthetics. #TambourPaneling #InteriorDesign #WallTreatment #HomeDecor #DIYProjects #ArchitecturalFeatures #RetroStyle #BathroomDesign #BedroomDesign #Cabinetry

Wallpaper is a versatile design element that can add color, personality, and artistic flair to any space. While some may fear that patterns and colors can be overwhelming, especially in a world dominated by ultra-bright white rooms, there are numerous ways to effectively incorporate wallpaper. One unconventional yet impactful option is to install it on the ceiling, transforming it into a 'fifth wall' that commands attention. Designers Lori Paranjape and Nadia Subaran advocate for wallpapered ceilings, highlighting their transformative power. Paranjape used a dramatic leopard print wallpaper on a study ceiling to inject personality and color without disrupting the all-white walls of the house, noting that the ceiling offered an opportunity for boldness without becoming a distraction for adjacent areas. She also suggests wallpapered ceilings as an excellent choice for rooms with extensive wall features like paneling or multiple doors, where the ceiling provides a clean canvas for patterns. Subaran, co-owner of Aidan Design, similarly chose Farrow and Ball’s Ranelagh paper for the ceiling of a kitchen-adjacent china pantry. This small room, characterized by tall cabinets, several doors, and a window, benefited from the ceiling application, adding an unexpected and special detail. Subaran points out that architecturally, clean ceiling geometries (square, rectangle, etc.) without excessive perforations (recessed lights, skylights, vents) are ideal for this application. She also emphasizes that adding a patterned ceiling in adjacent rooms can serve as a sophisticated transition to more formal detailing. When selecting wallpaper, it is crucial to determine the desired effect—whether it's to add vibrancy, texture, or a whimsical touch. The direction of the pattern is also a key consideration, especially in long and narrow rooms, where patterns should run perpendicular or be directionless to avoid accentuating the room's length. Framing the ceiling with crown molding can further define and enhance the wallpapered surface. For rooms with slanted ceilings, using the same wallpaper on both walls and ceilings can create a cohesive and unified look. For installation, professional help is recommended to ensure proper application and easy removal. However, for those opting for a DIY approach, various removable and self-adhesive wallpaper options are available, making it a manageable project even for renters. #WallpaperedCeilings #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PatternPlay #CeilingDecor #DIYHome #DesignInspiration #LoriParanjape #NadiaSubaran

The increasing use of transluminous ceilings in architectural design is discussed, highlighting their contributions to sustainable building and occupant well-being. These ceilings, often employing thermoformed panels, leverage advancements in lighting technology to offer aesthetic and functional benefits. The article delves into the sustainability aspects of the materials used, particularly rigid vinyl (uPVC), addressing common concerns about vinyl's environmental impact. It emphasizes that while some organizations red-list vinyl due to manufacturing chemicals and combustion toxicity, certain manufacturers produce uPVC without harmful precursors and with stringent environmental controls. These panels can also achieve GreenGuard Gold certification for low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. The article notes that PVC compounds are inherently fire-resistant, and the minimal mass of thermoformed panels reduces their potential fuel contribution during a fire. Furthermore, the light weight and compact nature of these panels decrease the environmental burden associated with manufacturing, shipping, and handling. Beyond production, the life cycle performance of vinyl is explored. Despite vinyl's non-biodegradable nature, which is a disadvantage in landfills, it proves beneficial in building applications due to its durability. Thermoformed ceiling panels are water-resistant, do not support mold or fungi growth, and are easy to clean. Their robustness ensures resistance to damage during installation or maintenance, and UV inhibitors prevent discoloration. The article points out that these panels can often be salvaged and reused during redecoration or at the end of a building's life. If not reused, they are recyclable, with some manufacturers accepting scrap material to produce new panels with over 98 percent recycled content, demonstrating a high-quality closed-loop recycling process. The evolution of luminous ceilings, particularly with the integration of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), is a key focus. Grids with closely spaced LEDs positioned above and behind light-transmitting surfaces minimize the required distance between light sources and the finished ceiling. The article provides an example of LEDs spaced 25 mm (1 in.) on-center, positioned 125 mm (5 in.) above ceiling panels. This configuration allows frosted panels to create uniformly illuminated surfaces, while clear panels with molded surfaces effectively scatter the bright LED light. The unique interaction of different thermoformed panel styles with the LED array results in varied visual effects, and the appearance changes dynamically with the viewer's position. The discussion then draws upon Richard Kelly's three elements of visual design: focal glow, ambient luminescence, and play of brilliants. Traditional luminous ceilings excelled at providing ambient luminescence, characterized by shadowless, diffused light that minimizes form and suggests infinity, creating a reassuring and restful atmosphere. Modern transluminous ceilings have advanced to incorporate focal glow, achieved through variations in light intensity and color, which draws attention and highlights important areas. They also offer the 'play of brilliants,' creating sparkle and excitement through light shining through panel perforations or clear panel facets, akin to crystal chandeliers or Times Square at night. This technological evolution allows transluminous ceilings to provide a comprehensive lighting experience that can engage and stimulate occupants in diverse ways. #AcousticalCeilings #SuspendedPlasticCeilings #LuminousCeilings #Ceiling #Lighting #LED #Transluminous #SustainableDesign #Vinyl