The Transformative Power of Ceiling Trim
We often overlook the ceiling as a place to trim, most likely because we tend to think of the ceiling as something out of sight as we focus on the surfaces directly ahead of us: the walls. But adding some trim to a ceiling can provide a whole new dimension and structure to a room. It can reinforce a focal point, add rhythm and modulation, provide a surface to introduce color and so much more.
And the addition of some ceiling trim can be an economical way to change the character of a room. If you’re a do-it-yourself type with some carpentry and finishing skills, you can add ceiling trim for just a few hundred dollars in materials. If you’re not that type, it’ll cost you more to hire a skilled tradesperson, but the minimal investment will go a long way in making your home special.
The addition of closely spaced and shallow trim boards can provide some structure to a room and reinforce the room’s overall elegance. And by painting these trim boards in a color that gives them visual weight without making them dark and somber, the room stays light and relaxed while maintaining a sense of formality.
Ceiling trim can also reinforce a room’s focal point. This can be especially worthwhile in a room with a tall ceiling. Rather than the ceiling’s being undefined and unclear here, the trim reinforces the upper reaches of the space and leads us to a gathering spot.
Even small rooms, like pantries and bathrooms, are ripe for ceiling trim. A bit of layering like this is a nice trick for making a small room feel larger. With the lattice screen as the ceiling plane, the sky above appears more boundless.
The addition of trim to a ceiling, whether it’s simply a layer or two of drywall or some painted wood, can transform even a small and simple powder room into quite an elegant space. And this can easily be done in a remodel where the intent is to create a very special room at a truly minimal cost.
Ceiling trim in a long hallway is really worthwhile. Rather than there being the sense of a long, seemingly endless hall, well-designed ceiling trim provides a sense of scale that breaks down the journey into steps.
While not a DIY project, a flat hall ceiling can be transformed into something altogether remarkable with a curved shape and trim. This would mean having some design work and carpentry done, but the result would be worth the investment.
Have you reworked a ceiling with trim? We’d love to see a photo of your project below.
More: How to Bring Out Your Home’s Character With Trim
