Interior design is aiming higher than ever, as statement ceilings become all the rage. With searches for ‘statement ceilings’ up 310% on Pinterest, it’s clear that it was out with the feature wall and in with the feature fifth wall.
As a result, we believe it’s our duty to show you how a dark painted ceiling can make all the difference and how to make it work in your home.
Key takeaways
- Dark painted ceilings turn your “fifth wall” into a bold design feature.
- They add depth, drama and a cosy, cocooning feel.
- Ideal for living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms — especially with higher ceilings.
- Deep blues, greens, charcoals and warm neutrals work beautifully.
- Matte finishes are best to avoid glare and highlight imperfections less.
- Pair with good lighting and lighter elements to keep the space balanced.
Design rules for painted ceilings
Image credit: My Bespoke Room
Those of us who have taken to a bit of DIY ceiling painting in the past will attest to the fact that it’s no picnic. Having to squint through a shower of speckled paint (invest in goggles, people) isn’t the high point of a room reno.
That’s why our advice is to think carefully about the colour you plan to use and how it will transform your room. It’s important not to follow trends for the sake of it so really think about how you want to feel in the room.
In the same way that painting your walls in a dark colour can draw the space in and create a cosier vibe, a dark ceiling will have the same effect. This can work wonders in properties with cavernous ceiling heights where you want a more intimate mood, but can feel oppressive in smaller dwellings.
Image credit: My Bespoke Room
Painted ceilings are great for open plan spaces and home extensions, they act as a great zoning tool to create different areas in an open space. It’s also a great solution for making a living area feel more cosy and intimate while still remaining airy and open.
Need a helping hand designing your dream home? Book a FREE consultation with one of our expert designers to get started:
Painting your ceiling in subtle hues
Image credit: My Bespoke Room
If your home is not blessed with cathedral-like proportions that doesn’t mean you have to sit this one out. By using lighter shades of grey and soft pastels you can bring warmth to a room without it feeling too enclosed.
Where’s the line?
Image Credit: My Bespoke Room
An important point to consider is where the line should be as you want to make your painted ceiling look purposeful.
If you have them then crown molding or coving make a very useful outline to paint to. You can also paint down the wall slightly to picture rail or create your own line to get the same effect…just make sure you keep it straight!
Nervous about getting a perfectly straight line?! Tash from Lick gives us a demo:
Wallpapered ceilings ideas
Now yes, this might not be one to change up on a regular basis but we at My Bespoke Room have a huge design crush on wallpapered ceilings as they create truly unique spaces with an undeniable wow factor.
Why not consider a wallpapered ceiling for your bedroom? Not only can they create a warm and comfortable space but you also have the perfect view when lying in bed. We recommend choosing a softer, calming palette for the bedroom to help you sleep peacefully.
Patterns on your ceiling are also a great way to direct the eye and focus attention away from one point and towards another. Stripes for example work brilliantly in this dressing room, drawing you towards the bed at the end.
Struggling to pick out the perfect colour for your room? Tash from Lick shares her tips for choosing the perfect hue:
Children’s bedroom ceilings – free your inner artist
For the artistic amongst you it’s time to make like Michelangelo and get creative on your ceiling. And what better place to do this than your kid’s bedroom? This can be such a fun project to work on with your kids and really does have the wow factor for sleepovers.
If it’s unicorns one week and then transformers the next then our top tip is to consider using stickers on your ceiling so you don’t have to commit yourself to wallpaper or paint.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Will a dark ceiling make my room look smaller?
Not always. In high-ceilinged rooms, dark paint can make the space feel balanced and cosy. In standard rooms, the right shade and good lighting prevent it from feeling closed in.
What rooms suit a dark painted ceiling?
Living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms work particularly well. They’re ideal for creating mood, intimacy and impact.
What colours work best for ceilings?
Deep blues, greens, charcoal and warm neutrals are popular. Choose a shade that complements your wall colour and natural light.
What paint finish is best for a ceiling?
A matte or low-sheen finish is usually best. It hides imperfections and avoids unwanted glare.
Further reading
- 9 Creative ways to use paint to zone a room
- The best colour ideas for an open-plan living space
- 24 interior design top tips from industry professionals
- 12 Wallpaper ideas that are bold, beautiful and budget-friendly
If this is your first foray into the dark painted ceiling world, don’t forget you can book in a free call with one of our professional Interior Designers to discuss your design ideas:
