The design of a modern living room should be perfect, as this room is considered the "face" of the house. Therefore, in its design, great attention is paid not only to the decoration of the walls and floor, but also to the ceiling, which is the main detail of any decor. Its correctly selected shape and color will make the living room stylish and cozy, fill the space with home warmth and favorably emphasize the beauty of the rest of the interior elements. Today, there are many options for finishing the ceiling using various building materials and structures, thanks to this it is easy to choose the right theme and give the room a complete look.

Types and designs

The ceiling design in the living room can be done in different ways. Depending on the size and height of the room, both the application of the decorating layer directly to the base itself and the installation of suspended compositions using drywall and canvases are used. Simple finishes include:

• Whitewash. Although this method is considered "old" and is gradually losing its relevance, it remains in demand among owners of apartments and houses, because whitewashing does not require special financial costs and is done quickly. To complete it, it is enough to apply a solution of chalk or lime to the ceiling with the help of a spray gun. In order for the surface to acquire the desired shade, special dyes are added to the solution. The main disadvantage of whitewashing is the need for laborious cleaning of the premises after work and in the thorough elimination of surface defects before starting the work process.

• Painting. It is most often preferred for routine renovations in the hall. As a coating, water-dispersion and water-based paints of different colors are chosen. Painting can be done with both expensive and cheap dyes. To make the ceiling beautiful, it is necessary not only to carefully prepare its base, but also to apply paint in several layers.

• Wallpapering. It is characterized by the cleanliness of the work, it allows you to hide small seams and cracks on the surface of the ceiling. The aesthetic appearance of such a finish lasts up to 5 years, then restoration must be carried out. For wallpapering, canvases are purchased from high-quality paper, consisting of several layers. Usually, for these purposes, vinyl-based wallpaper with a relief structure is chosen, they are durable and are not afraid of wet cleaning.

• Pasting with tiles. Products are decorative material of various colors and sizes, made of expanded polystyrene in the form of squares or rectangles. Original drawings and patterns can be additionally applied on the surface of the slabs. Today, you can find smooth, rough surfaces of the material on sale; tiles with imitation wood and stucco decorations are also very popular. Such low-cost and easy-care products can be painted with water-based paint.

Modern ceilings in the living room are also decorated in the form of complex structures, which are:

• Hinged. Well suited for surfaces in which you need to hide various defects and placed communications. The panels of the suspended composition can have any shape, texture and color. At the same time, they are necessarily complemented by beautiful lighting, which allows you to create an unusual design.

• From drywall. Such a finish requires experience and skill in performing the work. Two-level ceilings, which are often made curvilinear, look original in the living room. They have excellent sound and heat insulation, they serve reliably for many years.

But it is worth noting that a two-level frame is suitable only for high rooms. It is better not to install it in a hall with a low ceiling, because the height of the space will decrease by 15-20 cm. The elasticity of drywall allows it to take on various shapes. Designers recommend creating from it not only simple structures, but also multi-level decorations with domes and arches. Plasterboard and stretch ceilings are originally combined, presenting unusual design options.

• Cassette. They are installed on a prefabricated frame. The material looks like thin plates of zinc and aluminum, on the front side of which a powder layer of multi-colored paint is applied. When decorating ceilings in this way, you can choose plates with a rough or smooth surface. They are quick to install, easy to clean, allow you to hide ventilation systems, but are characterized by low sound insulation.

• Mirrored. They are a kind of cassette ceilings, but they use decorative mirrors instead of metal plates. Such decorations help to visually increase the height of the hall and add volume to the room. In addition, they are absolutely environmentally friendly and safe to use.

• Hemmed. They are curved surfaces of complex shapes, which are made from a metal frame, drywall sheets and decorative panels. They can be mounted on a ceiling, the irregularities of which do not exceed 1-2 cm. If you plan to install wiring for communications and built-in lamps, this ceiling model will not work.

• Rack and pinion. They look original both in the design of wooden houses and in city apartments. Due to the fact that the slats are made in various colors, they can be used to decorate any style in the living room. An unusual option is the material covered with gold or silver, chrome strips also look great. To finish the ceiling in this way, choose a slatted material with a glossy or matte surface.

• Stretched. They look like a solid canvas, which is made from durable vinyl polymers. First, a frame made of slats is mounted along the perimeter of the hall, and then the material is pulled. An original pattern or drawing can be applied to such a soaring ceiling. The composition, as a rule, is made of different colors and textures.

Finishing materials

The design of the ceiling in the living room is made out with various materials, the choice of which depends on its design features. It is important to consider correct placement of light sources and to hide electrical wiring. At the same time, any type of decoration should be performed with ecological products that would not only harmoniously fit into the overall interior of the room, but also meet the conditions of safe operation. So, choosing a "flat" version of the ceiling for design, you will need wood, plaster, paint or wallpaper. As for multi-level structures, they can have a mirrored, glossy or matte appearance, which is usually created using drywall, PVC panels and plastic boards.

Recently, the combined version of the ceiling, in which a suspended structure is made and decorated with wooden beams and tension canvases, is also very popular. The finishing touch in this decor is moldings and stucco moldings.

For many, single-level ceilings may seem unpresentable and simple, but if you choose the right finish, you get a completely original picture. For example, a ceiling covered with ordinary wallpaper will look faded, but if you use beautiful canvases based on non-woven or fabrics, then its appearance will change.

Regardless of what type of ceiling will be chosen for the interior of the hall, it is necessary to use high-quality materials for its decoration, it is advisable to give preference to natural products. Great attention should also be paid to their texture and color.

Styles of design

The living room is a continuation of the overall design of the house. Therefore, in order to distinguish it from the background of other rooms in an original way and fill it with an unusual atmosphere, it is recommended to apply a certain stylistic direction in the decoration of the ceiling. Today there are many styles for decorating ceiling coverings, but the most important of them are:

• Rococo. It is characterized by a perfectly flat surface in beige, blue or white. In this case, the ceiling should smoothly merge into the walls. Often, frescoes or modeling are used as decorations, and they also try in every possible way to fill the background with a bronze and gold tint. The chandelier is usually placed in the center of the ceiling and is a huge piece decorated with crystal balls and pendants.

• Egyptian notes. They are characterized by relief painting with antique themes. The ceiling is made simple, its only decoration can be a multi-figured bas-relief or cornice. It is allowed to paint the surface with floral ornaments. The color scheme is usually dominated by blue, yellow, crimson and green.

• Gothic. The ceiling is made in the form of wooden beams or vaults. In order to properly decorate, it is recommended to use exclusively natural wood species. A beautiful example is the white background of the walls in the hall, complemented by the black ceiling.

• Country. It is as close to nature as possible and does not tolerate excesses. For him, ceilings made of wooden beams are also used, from which unusual shapes are laid out. The spatial color scheme is chosen, and it is dominated by yellow, beige, brown and light chocolate shades.

• Classicism. The walls are separated from the ceiling with beautiful cornices or friezes. Often the surface is decorated with gilded ornaments and stucco moldings. Colors are chosen light, bright colors are completely excluded.

• Renaissance. Its distinctive feature is clarity and simplicity, so contrasting compositions are not allowed. Both spotlights and modest chandeliers can be used as lighting. The ceiling is installed at different levels, but straight lines must be present in each of them. The color scheme is selected depending on the general background of the living room.

• Kitsch. It is a bright and exotic option for the ceiling. Provides for the use of different colors, which may not be combined with each other. For example, the base is made bright blue and framed with eaves decorated with sparkles or stars. Kitsch is often chosen for living rooms with bay windows.

• Eclecticism. An interesting direction that combines both Western and Eastern motives. Such ceilings look unusual, combining modern, baroque and high-tech at the same time. At the same time, the ceiling can be either monochromatic or include separate colored inserts. An original addition to the design in this case will be a forged chandelier and embossed baguettes.

• Classic characterized by such a finish, in which the ceilings always look individual and unique. Classic décor is usually dominated by light and pastel shades. Designs can be single-level and stepped. Beautiful chandeliers are used as lighting and are supplemented with illumination from spotlights. Such ceilings, decorated with stretch canvases, pasted over with wallpaper or covered with decorative plaster, look great.

• Modern. Suitable for home owners who love everything new and modern. In this finish, contrasting compositions, inserts from mirror surfaces and photo print are welcome. For a living room in this direction, 3D ceilings are well suited, creating an unusual feeling of lightness and weightlessness.

Lighting

Traditionally in living rooms, a large chandelier is installed in the center of the ceiling, but this option is usually suitable for simple decor. As for complex and multi-level structures, it is necessary to use other more stylish methods of organizing lighting to illuminate them. For example, spotlights, which can be complemented by a large shade with an original design, would be a good choice. The area of ​​the room also plays a huge role in the choice of light sources. For small rooms, ordinary chandeliers are suitable, and living rooms with a low ceiling are best decorated with several built-in lamps and place a floor lamp in the room.

Recently, homeowners have chosen to make ceilings that consist of many levels. Such an architectural composition looks presentable, but if you do not worry about lighting it, the decor will be ruined, especially if brown is chosen for the ceiling. To avoid this, it is recommended to mount several types of lighting in the living room.

It is a good idea to use backlighting to highlight unusual details on the ceiling. It will be complemented in an original way by a stylish glass lamp, while it is best to choose spotlights for the decoration of such a plafond, they will originally shimmer in various shades and create a romantic atmosphere in the room. Overhead devices are also very popular; they are presented in various saturations and colors.

Before decorating the ceiling design in the living room, it is recommended first of all to make a good repair in it and expand the space. If this is a private house with high ceilings, then its interior can be diversified with multi-level structures. In a "Khrushchev" setting, where the room is small and its area does not exceed 18 square meters. m, you will need to apply various design ideas and visually raise the space.

To make the ceiling stylish and unique, you must adhere to the following tips:

• Choose natural materials for decoration. They are not only considered environmentally friendly, but also look great against the general background of the interior. Both wooden structures and products that imitate stone will be suitable.

Today, for interior designers and those who decorate a room on their own, there is such a variety of finishing materials that it is sometimes not so easy to make a choice. You have to take into account not only your own views on the design of space and preferences, but also financial capabilities, room features and the appropriateness of using a specific coating.

Decorative materials for finishing the ceiling must be selected taking into account all requirements. Only then will they fully allow you to enjoy a successfully executed cladding.

What are the nuances to consider when choosing a ceiling covering

Studying the aesthetic and operational characteristics of different types of finishes, it is important to consider the features of the finished spaces and the coatings themselves.

• Of course, the decor of the ceiling surface should not come into dissonance with the general style of decoration of the room and the materials used in its decoration.

• The dimensions of the room to be decorated, which largely determine the type of decoration. For rooms with low ceilings, it is better to choose a coating that will cause minimal damage to their height.
• The condition of the ceiling base, as well as the desire or ability to engage in careful preparation.
• The need to camouflage any communications behind the decorative ceiling or place insulation.

• The purpose of the room to be decorated, the parameters of the microclimate in it. For lining ceilings in bathrooms, it is necessary to select materials that are resistant to moisture, alternating temperature indicators inside and the formation of microorganisms.
• The ability to restrain water leaks from neighbors is also not at all superfluous. In the kitchen, the finish should easily withstand wet cleaning, exposure to high temperatures and steam.
• If direct sunlight enters the room, the coating is required to withstand their impact with resistance, without losing its appearance over a long period of operation.
• Materials should be practical, environmentally friendly, and aesthetically pleasing.
• It is not enough to purchase suitable material. It is necessary to correctly install it, following the technology. Only in this case will the coating look attractive and delight the owners with its appearance for a long time.

It is important to choose the right shade of finishing materials.

Tips for choosing a color scheme:

• Pastel shades create a visual impression of the spaciousness of the room.
• Light glossy ceilings, due to the reflective effect, enhance the illumination of the room. This coating is recommended for use where there is little sunlight.

• You can add coziness in a low-light room by using warm colors in the design.
• On the contrary, if the luminous flux comes in excess, cool shades of coatings are appropriate.
• In rooms with very high ceilings, it is best to choose a light color for the floor and a dark color for the ceiling. In low rooms, on the contrary, the floor should be darker than the ceiling surface (as in the photo).

• The ceiling should not be trimmed in the same color as the rest of the interior. Such a design can create a crushing effect and an uncomfortable environment.

When choosing a coating for decorating different rooms, one cannot ignore the nuances of the influence of shades on the psyche:

• White ceilings soothe, create a complacent mood, add strength.
• Red shades have a stimulating effect, can accelerate the heartbeat and intensify muscle activity.
• Blue ceiling helps calm the nerves before bed.
• Blue- will add lightness, help relieve fatigue at the end of the day.
• Yellow in decoration raises self-esteem, stimulates mental activity.
• Shades of green soothe, help to cope with emotional and visual overload.

Important! The dark green color can cause depression, and even a depressive state.

• Orange the interior liberates, invigorates and creates a good mood.
• Ceiling painted pink, brings romantic notes to the atmosphere and mood.
• Brown ceilings- cozy and warm. They represent stability, reliability and security.

How to decorate the ceiling

There are many options for facing the base. You can learn more about this from the video in this article.

Stretch coverings

Recently, the ceiling, lined with stretched material (film or fabric), is in increasing demand. This is due to the variety of textures of the canvases (matte, glossy, satin, with imitation of the starry sky, etc.) and functionality.

Why stretch ceilings are good:

• perfectly flat surface;
• the absence of the need for a thorough preparation of the rough base, since the canvas is stretched at a certain distance from the surface (this also makes it possible to place engineering communications and a layer of thermal insulation behind the coating);
• quick installation;
• long service life, which is proved by long product warranty periods;
• practicality;
• the ability to install in any premises;

Important! When choosing a model, it is necessary to take into account some differences in the properties of PVC fabric and film. For example, woven fabrics absorb odors well and cannot resist water for a long time. But they are vapor-permeable and when installing them there is no need to use a heat gun.

• a relatively small offset from the base, which allows the use of such structures in rooms with low ceilings;
• resistance to temperature influences, chemicals, sunlight, fire, environmental safety.
• the ability to create various shapes on the ceiling, including multi-level;
• compatibility with other facing materials;
• ease of placing any lighting fixtures on such coatings (with the exception of very hot ones);

• availability.

Dropped ceilings

The structures consist of a frame, which is attached to the rough base of the ceiling and walls, and cladding. It can be done using plasterboard cladding (with subsequent coating) or modules are used: cassettes, slats, grilyato panels.

Suspension systems allow, like tension ones, to mask surface defects and laid wiring. Cassette ceilings look luxurious and stylish. They are created from modules 0.6 x 0.6 m or 0.6 x 1.2 m.

The filling material can be:

• glass (including mirror);
• wood or wood-containing products;
• plastic;
• metal;
• fiberglass.

Grilyato is more often installed in public and commercial premises. These gratings, available in various mesh sizes, are popular for their modern appearance, ability to create unusual designs and durability.

Installation of slatted ceilings (made of plastic or metal strips) is mainly used in bathrooms and kitchens.

A coffered ceiling can be installed in high and spacious rooms. It is a structure of beams, niches and cells. You can create a luxurious decor from plasterboard, MDF, polyurethane foam, wood, etc.

Lining

Lovers of natural products actively use this type of decoration. Especially - for finishing suburban buildings.

In interiors where wood plays an important role, the lining will organically fit in and will delight the eye with its beautiful texture for a long time, and wood will fill the air with a pleasant aroma.

There are several options for board sections: calm, euro, landhouse, American, with imitation under a bar, etc. The types of lining are different in appearance, profile, chamfer, fixing methods.

Ceiling tiles

The material belongs to the budget category. Plastic and polystyrene tiles are most often used for cladding bathrooms, corridors and kitchens.

By gluing such coatings, minor defects in the base can be hidden. Their installation does not lead to a loss of ceiling height, and everyone can fix the plates with their own hands.

This is not to say that this decor will last a long time, but due to its economy, neat appearance and ease of installation, it has a right to exist.

Painting and whitewashing

Classic methods of cladding the base of the ceiling. The main advantage of such a finish is economy, but the labor required to arrange an ideal surface before applying the compositions (otherwise it is impossible) and time will have to be spent a lot. In addition, a large amount of dirt and dust is provided.

Whitewashing is performed with compositions based on chalk or lime.

Acrylic paints are most often used for interior finishing work. They are well characterized in terms of functionality. If increased antiseptic properties are required from the coating, silicate compositions are suitable.

Silicone coatings have increased elasticity and hiding power, and the painted surfaces look great. But not everyone will like the price of such paints and varnishes. Before purchasing the composition, you must familiarize yourself with its characteristics, which are contained in the instructions so that they correspond to the purpose of the room to be finished.

It is not at all necessary to paint the ceiling in one color. You can create an original design using various techniques: from applying contrasting stripes to the base, and ending with a full-fledged surface painting.

Plaster

Decorative compositions for finishing indoor bases in rooms, presented in a wide variety of options. With their help, you can create not only a relief surface, but also real works of art.

For example, using Venetian plaster, the work with which requires high professionalism, you can get a truly luxurious ceiling.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper today is used much less often than thirty years ago, when there was no such choice of finishing materials. The advantages of this method of decoration include the relative simplicity of the work, and the cost of coatings, which is not too expensive.

There are so many types of wallpaper that it will not be difficult to choose a material suitable for the rest of the design. You can glue the usual vinyl or non-woven coverings.

Textile models or made of other natural materials, for example, bamboo, perfectly decorate the surface. With the help of liquid wallpaper with an interesting texture, you can mask some defects on the base. However, do not use them in damp rooms.

Custom design

You can add originality to the interior by using, for example, cork as a decorative coating.

The use of stucco molding will add grace and aristocracy to the interior.

In a room with high ceilings, you can decorate the ceiling with wooden beams of various geometric shapes and colors.

Used when decorating the ceiling and fabric. Someone may like the airy textile canvases hanging from the ceiling.

A fairly modern solution is the absence of decor on the ceiling in its usual sense. It has become fashionable to emphasize the raw surfaces, for example, concrete. This technique is actively used in loft-style interiors.

However, it takes a lot of effort to make the room look good. By finishing the ceiling with decorative or rolled concrete of different shades, slabs or special types of plaster, you can create a conceptual and stylish space.

Rural motives can be brought into the room by finishing with an ordinary board. Moreover, the use of material of different breeds and textures will add special style.

The variety of finishing materials and solutions allows you to implement any design ideas. Using various decorative materials for lining the ceiling, you can create interesting and modern designs.

A rich selection of materials and technological solutions for finishing the ceiling contribute not only to the implementation of highly artistic ideas, but also to the uncontrolled appearance of publications in interior magazines, demonstrating tasteless ceilings characterized by a large number of multi-level bends, an abundance of spotlights and inappropriate stucco moldings, as well as a vulgar hybrid of surreal colors classic design. All this bad taste, in most cases presented under the brand of famous European designers, our compatriots without looking back strive to reproduce in their apartments, guided by the imposed Soviet stereotypes "the brighter the better." Often these finishing methods are used inappropriately, since decorating the ceiling with decorative elements is only relevant if it is harmoniously combined with a holistic interior concept, the capabilities of which are directly determined by the individual characteristics and technical characteristics of the room. Due to the existence of unspoken principles according to which repairs are judged by the decoration of the ceiling, we will tell you how to avoid common mistakes in the process of designing decorative ceilings, making the ceiling surface exquisite and unique.

How to avoid common mistakes in the process of decorating ceilings?

To avoid common mistakes made by the master in the process of finishing the ceiling, follow the tips presented in this article. If the ceiling in the room is characterized by a standard height, discard the massive molded cornices designed to create an interior in a classic style. The idea of ​​arranging ascetic minimalism, complemented by the "constellations" of spotlights, will also be inappropriate. Even if you are inclined towards non-standard interior trends with the prefix "art", remember that the basis of its concept is the balance and consistency of not only colors, but also minor accessories. If the basic tenets of modern interior solutions are disregarded, a seemingly winning design concept will turn into a meaningless set of accessories for a widespread European-style renovation.

Traditional and modern ways of finishing ceilings

Several decades ago, when only ordinary decoration methods were used in the process of renovating an apartment, the ceilings were only painted or whitewashed, and the highest manifestation of the owner's ingenuity was the ceiling surface, pasted over with multi-colored wallpaper. Today, the ceiling, being the basic platform for creativity, serves as a kind of canvas on which the master can realize his wildest fantasies. Modern methods of ceiling decoration, being the highest manifestation of ingenuity, allow you to change the space of a room beyond recognition.

Over the past few decades, the home craftsman's arsenal has been replenished with a number of innovative solutions that have retained and even increased their popularity. These include stretch ceilings and decorative suspended ceilings, ceramic and glass tile ceilings, and mirrored ceilings and decoration with a variety of stained-glass windows. All this variety of methods makes it possible to decorate ceilings not only using traditional plaster, but also to operate with coarser textures, while changing the usual configuration of the ceiling in favor of a complex or multi-level structure. Despite the fact that some of the methods listed above have acquired the status of traditional, smooth or sharp stepped lines created in the process of their implementation will add charm and personality to the entire room. To date, relatively new and original ways of decorating the ceiling are as follows:

• Decoration of ceilings using stencil painting;
• Decorating ceilings with stained-glass windows;
• Arrangement of mirrored ceilings;
• Ceiling decoration ideas using fabric, leather, cork and even parquet.

Decorative plaster: main varieties

This version of decorative ceiling coating involves the application of a non-uniform plaster mixture to the ceiling surface, which includes a variety of fillers: small pebbles, wood fibers, as well as pieces of quartz and mica, which impart “heterogeneity” to the mixture. In view of the plasticity of the plaster, the home craftsman gets the opportunity to create a relief texture, the outlines of which depend on the granules and binders that make up the mixture.

Currently, the craftsmen have at their disposal several types of plaster:

• Structural plaster, which is a ready-made mass of white color, which, during the tinting process, acquires the desired shade. It is applied evenly on the ceiling surface and, using special rollers, combs and spatulas, form the required relief. Thus, the technique of applying structural plaster requires sufficient professionalism from the master;
• Textured plaster, due to the peculiarities of the granules included in its composition, forms a relief without additional interventions. The only thing that needs to be done in the future is to give the desired color to the textured surface.

If you decide to equip the ceiling with decorative plaster, but do not have sufficient experience, the most preferable option for you will be to use textured plaster. In order to obtain a different relief and pattern in the process of its application, it is necessary to combine plaster mixtures with fillers of different fractions.

The advantages of the decorative material are that the plastered plane is characterized by a seamless plane, and all existing defects will be masked by the relief.

Decorative plasterboard ceilings: design rules

Sometimes, for some reason, plaster cannot be used as a decorative ceiling covering. We are talking about repairs in two-, three-year-old panel new buildings, which are in the stage of "shrinkage". In this case, there is a high risk of cracks appearing on the plastered surface. As a forced alternative to classical decorative plaster, a plasterboard ceiling is used, which is also irreplaceable when it is necessary to hide construction defects in the ceiling, lay electrical communications and ventilation systems, and install spotlights.

If you are still undecided on the material for decorating decorative ceilings, experts recommend giving preference to drywall, which has a number of undeniable advantages:

• Using drywall, you can make your wildest design fantasies come true;
• Plasterboard structures retain their original appearance for a long time, remaining clean and tidy;
• Drywall is an environmentally friendly material;
• By equipping a decorative plasterboard ceiling, you can hide not only all the defects of the ceiling surface, but also existing communications;
• An important advantage of drywall is its affordable cost.
• If a distinctive feature of your living room is a large area and height, which leaves room for experimentation, you can give it an atmosphere of solemnity by relying on a combination of drywall and bright stretch ceiling inserts, as well as by hanging voluminous openwork lamps.
• The use of drywall allows you to design multi-level ceiling structures, the steps of which are painted in different shading solutions of the same color, which will become the basis for the fact that a professional designer took part in the repair process.

To make the room visually more spacious, experts recommend performing plasterboard ceilings in light shades: blue, pearl gray, etc. In cases where the living room is large enough, the color scheme of the ceilings should be done mainly in pastel and floral colors. It is recommended to add a splash of bright shades to liven up the color scheme and raise the mood. In view of the fact that the ceiling is the final element of any interior composition, in many cases white is still the best option.

Decorative plasterboard ceilings photo

If you plan to install decorative plasterboard ceilings, deviating from the classic color scheme, experts recommend adhering to certain rules for decorating the room, which will avoid disappointment.

• The most preferred design option for a room involves painting the ceilings in the same color as the walls, but its intensity should be reduced by half. This is due to the fact that on the ceiling the colors seem subjectively darker than they really are;
• If the interior already has a pink color, it is unacceptable to use a light shade of pink when decorating the ceiling;
• If you plan to decorate a room in rich tons, the choice of shade must be started from the ceiling;
• The use of shades of cold colors contributes to a visual increase in the height of the ceilings, however, if the windows of the room being decorated face the north side, it is recommended to refuse this design technique;
• If you prefer colored wallpaper with a pattern to decorate the room, it is not recommended to paint the ceiling in the background color of the wallpaper, as it will take on the appearance of rough unpainted plaster;
• Textured ceilings and structures with a complex configuration are recommended to be painted only in white and cream shades.

Imitation of stucco molding - a variant of decorative design of ceilings

The interior of the room, made in the antique or Gothic style, allows decorating the ceilings with polyurethane stucco molding, which, unlike plaster elements, is characterized by ease and simplicity of installation. Decorative ceiling covering imitating stucco molding is presented in many varieties, the most popular of which are:

• Moldings- elements intended for decorating the joints between the ceiling and walls. Smooth moldings, the decorative design of which does not imply the presence of a relief pattern, can be used as additions to interiors in the classic style, modern and Provence styles, and even the modern high-tech trend;
• Sockets are also not far behind in popularity and are used to decorate the attachment points of chandeliers and ceiling lamps. Also, various flower arrangements, cornices and borders are used as elements of the ceiling decor. For fixing polyurethane stucco moldings, liquid nails and special glue are used.

Important! In view of the high cost of polyurethane stucco molding, experts recommend making stucco molding yourself from alabaster, which is diluted with water and PVA glue and poured into molds. After the final hardening of the mixture, the products are removed from the molds and their surface is sanded.

The main advantages of polyurethane stucco molding:

• High strength and long service life;
• Increased moisture resistance;
• Low weight of decorative polyurethane products;
• Polyurethane elements are easily bent, taking the shape of any curved planes;
• Often, polyurethane stucco moldings are painted, however, unpainted elements will not turn yellow over time and will retain their original appearance;
• High decorative characteristics and a wide selection of elements.

Alternative methods of decorating ceilings

Ceiling decoration with stained glass: the main varieties

Ceiling stained-glass windows are one of the most common options for status finishing of the ceiling surface. Despite the fact that decorating the ceiling using a composition of multi-colored glasses assembled into a single composition is an expensive pleasure, it does not lose its relevance and is used not only in premium homes.

Varieties of stained-glass ceiling:

• Tiffany stained glass, the manufacturing technology of which involves fastening the multi-colored elements of the glass panel using brass, copper or lead tires. The peculiarities of these stained-glass windows necessitate the presence of special skills for their assembly and installation;
• Facet stained glass, also made of mating elements, however, unlike the previous version, the chamfer is removed along their entire perimeter, which enhances light refraction, making the interior more original;
• Artificial stained glass represents a transparent solid glass, on which an artistic painting is applied or a film is glued that imitates a stained-glass image.

Decorative wood ceilings- no less popular option for decorating the ceiling surface, for the implementation of which a wooden lining is required, appropriate within almost any stylistic interior solution.

Wooden decorative ceilings photo

Ceiling painting: varieties and a brief description of the method

There are several ways to apply an image to the ceiling surface:

• Draw a picture with your own hands (possibly if you have artistic talent);
• Apply the image using a stencil;
• In the process of drawing a picture, use ready-made stamps and rollers;
• Make an applique using vinyl sticker decals.

Let's consider each method in more detail.

Self-drawing

• Do-it-yourself drawing is a multi-stage process consisting of surface preparation, drawing a sketch and its subsequent painting.
• Surface preparation involves removing old plaster with a trowel and then thoroughly cleaning the ceiling with a brush. After completing these measures, an acrylic primer is applied to the surface using a roller, which makes it possible to identify all existing defects. The detected defects are eliminated with the help of plaster and, after waiting for the finish to dry, the surface is polished. After that, a layer of finishing putty and an acrylic primer are applied, serving as the basis for the drawing;
• Drawing a pattern on a large area overhead is fraught with a number of difficulties and is not always within the power of even a professional. In view of this, the key to successful work is the creation of comfortable working conditions, implying the installation and fixation of a step-ladder or a special pedestal that allows you to work lying down and is widespread among professionals;

Having prepared all the necessary materials and creating comfortable working conditions, they begin to draw a sketch. This can be done in several ways:

• The first method involves using life-size tracing paper. A drawing is applied to it, all the lines of which are hatched with black coal, after which the drawing, imprinted on tracing paper, is applied to the ceiling surface with the shaded side. All lines of the drawing are carefully pushed through with a pencil;
• The second method involves the use of an overhead protector, which projects the pattern directly onto the ceiling surface. All that is required of the artist is to trace the resulting image along the contour.

• The next stage is painting over the picture. Experienced craftsmen recommend starting painting a drawing with large details, after mixing the required shade on the palette. This stage is completed by drawing and detailing small elements.

Important! Despite the fact that acrylic paints are characterized by resistance to moisture and ultraviolet radiation, they need additional protection. To surely extend the service life of acrylic paints, the image is covered with acrylic varnish, which gives the image additional brightness and expressiveness.

Stencil painting of the ceiling surface

The stencils do not need to be made by yourself; it is enough to purchase them in a specialized store. Due to the fact that the material from which the templates are made quickly fails, it is necessary to buy several identical copies. The technology for working with stencils is not difficult, since an adhesive composition is applied to them on one side, which allows the template to be glued to the ceiling surface. Together with template sketches, they acquire sponges and stencil brushes, with which they apply paint to the surface of the ceiling. In view of the fact that the brush has a short and stiff bristle, the paint is applied not by strokes, but by the method of facing, which is necessary in order to prevent the paint from flowing behind the stencil. This condition ensures the clarity of the picture.

The paint is applied from the center to the edge. In order to see the result of the work, the template is carefully peeled off and the color intensity is checked. If necessary, make adjustments. After the final drawing of the stencil, they remove it and proceed to the design of another section.

Application - an affordable option for decorating the ceiling

If you still have not been able to decide on the method of decorating the ceiling surface, the most preferable option for you will be decorative stickers on the ceiling, which are used to create an applique. By giving them preference, you can easily mask all existing defects of the ceiling surface without resorting to large-scale repairs. The advantage of decorative stickers on the ceiling, the photos of which you can see below, is the ability to easily remove and stick them to another place without any marks on the surface to be decorated.

You can use ready-made vinyl decal stickers or self-made decals from paper, cardboard, foam, and even pieces of drywall as ceiling stickers.

In this article you will find many interesting ceiling design ideas with photos and descriptions. You will find out why it is not possible to use drywall everywhere, and how stretch ceilings will help you avoid a flood from your neighbors!

Having decided to start a renovation, you will have to choose the color palette of the room, choose the way to decorate the walls, ceiling and floor, find the optimal combination of practicality, aesthetics and, of course, price. If you study the possibilities of modern decoration, you can save the lion's share of the family budget, since everyone is well aware of how unplanned alterations can lead to huge, irrational waste.

Choosing a ceiling design option

Any redecoration starts from the ceiling; it largely depends on its completeness, design and construction as a whole. To date, there are a lot of options for finishing the ceiling. They are selected based on the preferences of the owners, the purpose of the premises and, of course, the cost. When the question of saving is acute, classic budget options for finishing are chosen - painting and whitewashing, or with expanded polystyrene plates. Suspended ceilings are relatively inexpensive, but also more practical and aesthetic. And, of course, when the question of the price of repairs is not so acute, the choice may fall on elite stretch ceilings.

Let's try to describe in detail each type of finish to help you choose the best option for you.

One of the most ancient, laborious and messy methods, requiring a perfectly flat ceiling surface with neat joints of ceiling tiles. Everyone remembers how much whitewash has to be washed off the floor and furniture after painting or whitewashing the ceiling. In addition, it is quite difficult to achieve a perfect uniform surface without streaks using a chalk solution or ceiling paint.

On the other hand, painting and whitewashing was and remains the most budgetary repair option. And it must be admitted that the qualitatively reconstructed painted ceiling looks quite neat and aesthetically pleasing. Plus, at your discretion, you can tint white with other shades.

It is less messy and time consuming than whitewashing, but just as inexpensive, especially along with suspension and tension systems. There are a huge variety of design options, from combinations of wallpapers of different patterns to their coloring in any color.

If you use special for the ceiling (ideally, liquid wallpaper), they will retain their original appearance for a long time. It is not recommended to use them in the bathroom or kitchen. In addition, the ceiling is unlikely to smooth out the unevenness of the ceiling, so the surface to be pasted should be as even as possible.

Pasting with expanded polystyrene plates

This finishing option is very similar to wallpapering, so we will not dwell on it for a long time. The only thing, unlike wallpaper, polystyrene ceiling tiles are able to resist moisture and smooth out small imperfections in the ceiling surface.

Plastic paneling

A good option for finishing the ceiling is PVC panels. They are durable, strong, soundproof and resistant to moisture and high temperatures. The latter allows them to be used with LED and halogen spotlights. PVC panels perfectly mask irregularities in the ceiling, pipes and wiring. All in all, it is a budget alternative to more expensive trim and false ceilings.

Plasterboard ceilings

This is a versatile and inexpensive false ceiling that allows you to bring all kinds of design ideas to life, hide any surface defects, unevenness, lighting, electrical wiring, etc.

Perhaps the only drawback of drywall is its fear of moisture, so it is not suitable for a bathroom. Otherwise, drywall is almost an ideal finishing material.

Advantages:

• Sheathing of any, even untreated surface;
• The ability to hide wiring, pipes, ceiling seams and other irregularities;
• Getting an absolutely flat and smooth surface;
• Creation of a multilevel ceiling;
• Carrying out a built-in lighting system;
• Excellent thermal insulation and the ability to maintain a microclimate in the room;
• Security;
• Heat resistance and incombustibility;
• Low cost compared to stretch ceilings.

Unlike previous finishing methods, you will have to tinker with the installation of drywall panels - install the frame, mount the plates, carry out the subsequent decorative finishing. Depending on the unevenness of the ceiling and the volume of hidden wires and communications, you can lose 5-10 cm in height. On the other hand, these are minor drawbacks, since as a result you get a beautiful, inexpensive, perfectly flat ceiling of the design you like.

If you are interested in finishing plasterboard ceilings, be sure to read!

In addition to the aforementioned plasterboard ceilings, false ceilings can be made of fiberboard and MDF. These are durable, safe, moisture-resistant finishing coatings, of a huge color and textured variety.

MDF and fiberboard can imitate wood, tiles, untreated brickwork or natural stone. The surface of the slabs can be easily painted with enamel and oil paints, pasted over with foil, decorated with slats and other elements, thereby creating an imitation of beams. Such a false ceiling will allow you to create an “expensive ceiling effect” and embody many interesting design solutions.

Dropped ceilings

The most popular type of mid-range ceilings. A suspended ceiling is a construction when various finishing materials are fixed to a wooden or metal frame. With its help, you can easily hide all the flaws and irregularities of the ceiling, wiring and communications, you can carry out a climate ventilation system, install built-in lamps.

Distinguish:

• Cassette ceilings - durable, durable, moisture-resistant and fireproof steel or aluminum plates (cassettes), commonly used in public spaces - restaurants, hotels, offices, medical facilities, etc.
• Armstrong-type ceilings are a budget finishing option that has become widespread, both for administrative premises and home rooms. These are easy-to-install, inexpensive, aesthetic slabs made of pressed mineral fiber that have thermal insulation, fire resistance and increased light reflectance, which allows you to save a lot on lighting.
• Rack ceilings are a very durable, shockproof, moisture resistant and fireproof metal ceiling. It does not need scrupulous care, does not rot, does not accumulate dirt and dust.
• Mirrored ceilings - allow you to create rich, spacious and stylish designs with lots of light and depth of space.

The last type of ceilings is elite modern fashionable stretch ceilings. In addition to the fact that this type of design looks very expensive and stylish, it is also a fairly practical way to decorate the ceiling.

• Stretch ceilings create an absolutely perfect surface, hide the asymmetrical shapes of the room, cover all irregularities and communications;
• Stretch ceilings hold a lot of weight, in case the neighbors decide to flood you;
• The material does not allow moisture to pass through, which allows it to be used in all rooms without exception.
• A very wide variety of designs - from the choice of color or texture (matte, glossy or satin) to photo printing, glitter, jewelry and more.

Unfortunately, the installation of stretch ceilings will not do without cons:

• This is the most expensive type of finishing;
• They can only be installed by professionals using special equipment (gas cannon);
• The canvas is afraid of mechanical damage, sharp objects, it is easily punctured.

Stretch ceilings are not installed in cold rooms without heating or with temperatures below +5, they lose their technological properties.

Choosing a ceiling design depending on the room

Now you know the features of each type of finish and can make a choice.

But remember that the choice of material for finishing the ceiling is highly dependent on the place. You cannot wallpaper the ceiling in the bathroom, and hope that in a month the appearance of the ceiling will remain in its original form. Most likely, yours will go with divorces, if not peeled off at all.

In the living room

On the kitchen

- this is a place with constant vapors, temperature changes and special requirements for hygiene, so the kitchen ceiling must be moisture resistant, fireproof, environmentally friendly and easy to clean. Whitewashing and painting the ceiling in the kitchen, as well as wallpapering are long gone due to their fragility. On such ceilings, stains and stains quickly appear, they crumble, peel off, and due to the large accumulation of steam they become an excellent breeding ground for fungi.

If there is a question of price, then it is better to use laminated polystyrene tiles or relatively inexpensive PVC panels.

For large irregularities, plaster, suspended or stretch ceilings will be the best solutions.

To the bathroom

The requirements are the same as for the kitchen. Due to the large amount of fumes, the risk of accumulation of fungi and pathogenic bacteria, the need for regular cleaning of surfaces, plasterboard ceilings, ceilings covered with wallpaper or finished with chipboard and fiberboard panels without special impregnation are completely unsuitable for the bathroom.

Few can boast of a large bathroom area, so suspended slatted and mirrored ceilings, which will expand the space, add more light and shine, are ideal options.

Plus, they are quite easy to care for, they are perfectly cleaned of stains and plaque.

A more expensive alternative is a stretch ceiling, which is also ideal for a bathroom.

Choosing a ceiling for your home

For Khrushchev

The small height of the ceilings in Khrushchev, unfortunately, is not a myth, but a harsh reality. Their maximum height is 2.40 m or even less if the floor was replaced and screed in the apartment. Naturally, in such conditions, it is quite difficult to install a suspended or stretch ceiling, which will steal 5-10 cm from an already small height.But it is still possible if the real surface of the ceiling does not have too large transitions, and the ceiling can be installed with minimal loss of space ...

For a modern new building

Unlike Khrushchev, choosing a ceiling for a new building is much easier. Here, the ceiling height is higher and the quality is newer, so you can choose almost any type of finish. It should only be borne in mind that within 2-3 years, the new building will shrink a little, which may affect the geometry of the premises. Therefore, finishing materials, especially for the ceiling, should be installed with some margin. All types of suspension and tensioning systems are ideal for new buildings.

For a private house

In a private house, the issue of thermal insulation is acute, therefore, the ceiling material should retain heat well in the house. Since the outer covering of the ceiling must also take into account the layer of insulation (from expanded clay, mineral wool or foam), it is best to use frame structures - suspended and suspended ceilings.

For suspended ceilings, a frame is first assembled for attaching an external ceiling (cassettes, drywall, etc.), and then a layer of insulation is laid in the space between the profiles. For stretch ceilings, on the contrary, first create a frame from bars for insulation, lay it, and only then stretch the outer canvas.

The choice of a light source and the correct arrangement of light determines which room you will end up with - small and dark, large but cold or warm and cozy.

Chandeliers and lamps

The classic lighting option is a chandelier in the center of the ceiling. Gives a lot of warm light, perfectly suits almost any type of interiors, gives the room an exquisite coziness.

Remember the weight of the lamp! It is not safe to mount a heavy chandelier on light drywall; it is better to mount it to the concrete base of the ceiling.

Unfortunately, this type of lighting is not very suitable for modern suspended and suspended ceilings, therefore, it is gradually being replaced by built-in lighting.

Spotlights

• They allow you to create the necessary lighting around the perimeter of the entire ceiling and make a certain pattern out of it, if provided by the designer;
• Easy to install fixtures and replace bulbs;
• Security. Spotlights do not heat up the ceiling;
• Rotary models allow you to change the direction of lighting as needed;
• This is a relatively inexpensive way of lighting.

LED strips

LED strips are a very non-standard and non-trivial approach to room lighting. You can not only choose an unusual lighting color, but even create a real light show at home, thanks to dynamic light effects - smoothly changing colors, light music, waves, etc.

Modern trends in the design of ceilings

1. Light neutral tones make the room more spacious, brighter, higher. If you decide to use patterns or bright colors, accent them in one small place so that the room does not become clumsy.
2. Multilevel ceilings allow you to perfectly divide the space into zones. For example, a bulging section of the ceiling will perfectly concentrate attention on the bed in the bedroom.
3. The glossy, mirrored and lacquered surface diffuses light, creating the effect of a 3-dimensional space.
4. For a low room, a plain light plasterboard ceiling with LED strips along the edges is ideal. This illusion will visually raise the ceiling.
5. The ceiling, sheathed with wood or wood-like clapboard, in combination with light furniture gives the interior naturalness, wealth and comfort.
6. The glossy finish of the bathroom walls matches perfectly with the matte ceiling.

The eternal question of repairs is to do it yourself or to provide work to professionals. In fact, many of the above methods for decorating the ceiling are not particularly difficult and may well be done independently. You can easily whitewash or paint the ceiling yourself, paste over it with wallpaper or expanded polystyrene plates. With a certain skill and the study of video tutorials, you can plant a plasterboard or MDF panel on the frame.

The only type of ceiling, the installation of which is recommended to be entrusted to specialists, is a stretch ceiling. First, because it takes at least a little practice to install it. Secondly, because the canvas is stretched with the help of a special expensive gas cannon, which is not advisable for you to buy for one repair.

We offer several video tutorials on decorating ceilings yourself, and you already decide how much these methods are within your power.

How to decorate the ceiling? This question is asked, perhaps, by every person who has started a major overhaul. For finishing the ceiling, you can use drywall, moldings, bamboo or expanded polystyrene tiles. Also, wallpaper and water-based paints are used as a finishing material. It should be noted that the design of the ceiling in the apartment begins with a number of preparatory work.

If the apartment has a low ceiling, then it is undesirable to use drywall and similar building materials, since they require the installation of a special frame. To visually expand the space, you can decorate the ceiling with specialized mirror tiles.

Mirror tiles can even be installed on concrete ceilings. However, experts recommend not to neglect the primer and putty of the base surface. If there are no potholes or cracks on the base surface, then the mirrored ceiling will lie smoother.

Mounting mirror tiles on the surface:

1. Mark the ceiling.
2. Cut the tiles. It is best to use a special grinder for cutting.
3. Use a drill to drill a screw hole in each tile.
4. Place a rubber cap over the screw. It is needed in order to avoid damage to the glass.
5. Fix the tiles to the base surface.
6. Install chrome caps in the places where the screws are attached.
7. If you wish, you can decorate the mirrored ceiling with LED strips.

Decorating the walls and ceiling of the apartment with bamboo slabs

Recently, bamboo slabs have been very popular. They are used both for wall decoration and for ceiling decoration. This material does not deform under the influence of temperature differences, and it perfectly tolerates high humidity. Installation of bamboo panels on the ceiling and walls is carried out in a similar sequence.

If you decide to decorate the ceiling and walls with bamboo, then remember that the tiles must be treated with a special antiseptic solution. Otherwise, the material may lose its strength.

Do-it-yourself installation of bamboo slabs is done in the following order:

• Apply a primer to the surface.
• Repair cracks with sealant.
• Mark the surface.
• If necessary, adjust the tile size with a hacksaw.
• Apply adhesive to the board.
• Place the board against the surface and press down lightly on the material.
• Remove excess glue with a napkin.
• After you have installed all the boards, seal the joints with a sealant.

The material on the features of the use of bamboo wallpaper in the interior will also be useful:

Inexpensive ceiling design options

In order to decorate the ceiling beautifully, it is not necessary to spend a large amount of money. If you are looking for budget, you can use drywall or expanded polystyrene plates. Ceilings decorated with these materials look no worse. In addition, paint or other finishing materials can be applied over drywall and foam boards.

Plasterboard sheets should be fastened to a special crate. For the manufacture of the frame, it is recommended to use aluminum profiles, as they are stronger and more durable.

Installation of drywall on the frame:

1. Punch holes in the drywall for the fixtures.
2. Fix the panel with self-tapping screws.
3. After all the panels are installed, it is necessary to seal the joints between them with a putty mortar.
4. Finally, you need to paint the ceiling and fix the fixtures.

The procedure for installing foam plates on the ceiling:

• Apply a primer to the ceiling and a layer of putty on top of it.
• Mark out the surface.
• Apply adhesive solution to the back of the board.
• Place the slab against the ceiling and press down lightly with your palms.
• After you have secured all the panels, punch holes for spotlights or a chandelier.
• Fill the gaps between the slabs.

The simplest design of a modern ceiling

If you are looking for the simplest ceiling design, then use wallpaper. The surface is glued with this material very quickly. When using wallpaper, you must first de-energize the apartment and close the windows. Also do not forget to apply a primer and putty to the surface.

Ceiling decoration with wallpaper is done in several stages:

1. Measure the length of the room.
2. Cut off the required piece of wallpaper. Remember that all stripes must be the same length and width.
3. Apply glue to the back of the wallpaper. If desired, the adhesive can also be applied to the ceiling.
4. Roll the strip to the ceiling.
5. Smooth the strip with a spatula.
6. Glue the rest of the strips in the same way.
7. Fold and cut the edges of the wallpaper.
8. Color the wallpaper. It is advisable to use water-based paint.

Interesting ideas for decorating the ceiling with wallpaper can be found in the material:

Do-it-yourself ceiling decoration with moldings

You can use moldings to decorate the ceiling. They are made from polyurethane, wood or plastic. Moldings are available in the form of corner strips. This material is glued to the wall.

For finishing a curved ceiling, you must use exclusively flexible moldings. They are made of polyurethane, so they are easy to bend. Flexible moldings are fixed with nails, which are subsequently removed.

How to install ceiling moldings:

• Cut the edge of the part at the desired angle using a miter box.
• Treat the place of installation with a primer mixture and putty.
• Apply glue to the back of the molding.
• Attach the molding to the surface and press lightly on it.
• Remove excess glue after a few minutes.
• Seal the gaps between the ceiling and the molding with sealant.

Stretch ceilings in the living room - ideas and design options (video)

When choosing a finishing material, rely on your own preferences and the height of the room. For finishing low rooms, it is impractical to use building materials that are installed on the frame. Also, when choosing a finishing material, consider the design of the room. For example, bamboo tiles won't fit into a classic or fusion room.

Ceiling decoration in the apartment (photo)