Although high ceilings are a sought-after feature, they can also present some unique challenges. Here are seven design solutions that help make high-ceilinged rooms feel inviting and intimate.
1. Find the Perfect Artwork
One large statement piece, a gallery of smaller pieces, or a tapestry are all great ways to fill your extra wall space. Most artwork should be hung at eye-level, or slightly above.
2. Install Custom Drapes
The softness of drapes helps to make a high-ceilinged room feel cozier. Depending on how high your ceilings are, you may need to order custom drapes. Stay away from fabric with bold patterns, since most will look overwhelming on floor-to-ceiling drapes.
3. Add Architectural Details
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One way to create a sense of depth in a tall ceiling is to add exposed beams, a coffered ceiling, or large crown molding. Although beams are often associated with rustic homes, they can also fit into a contemporary or traditional style home, depending on how they’re finished.
4. Use Statement Lighting
Hanging a statement lighting fixture, such as a chandelier, is a classic way to either draw the eye towards the ceiling or bring the eye down. Chandeliers should generally be hung over a table in the center of the room, such as a coffee table, dining table, or entryway table.
5. Create a Feature Wall
Another way to visually connect the upper and lower levels of the room is to turn one wall into a feature wall. Some ideas include painting one wall in a solid color, wallpapering a wall, or extending the brick or stonework around your fireplace upward.
6. Break the Walls into Thirds
You could also try visually dividing the walls into three sections. For example, the lowest third of your wall could be paneled, the middle third could be for artwork, and the highest third could be left as is.
7. Install Shelving
Some homeowners make use of their extra wall height by installing floating shelves or buying tall bookcases. If you like greenery, you can also add a tall potted plant in the corner of your room.
Having high ceilings is a problem that many homeowners would love to have. That said, there’s no denying that taking advantage of the extra height can be tricky without a designer’s know-how. By keeping these tips in mind, you can take the first step to bringing out the best in your home’s architecture.
Margaret Chambers, a registered interior designer (RID) and American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) member, leads Chambers Interiors and Associates. Her colleague Caitlin Crowley helped edit this column. Visit chambersinteriors.com/blog for more design advice.
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