Look Up! Adding That Wow Factor with Decorative Ceilings

Working with interior designers, I have seen many fantastic ideas for making a space come alive – and a recent condo renovation in Brookline is no exception! 

Using a subdued palette of grays, taupe and white throughout, the designer was looking to add a bit of “jewelry” and decided to look up for her inspiration… to the ceilings!  In the master bedroom and dining room, she decided to add a bit of pop and sparkle to the ceilings that would make the rooms feel more elegant, interesting and special.

That was where we came in! Starting in the bedroom tray ceiling, we wanted something that felt upscale and added some sparkle while also feeling soft and hand-done.The designer and homeowner were thrilled with our solution – which was a linen-look finish painted with metallic pearl paint. To accomplish this look, we started with a taupe-painted base and did a special application in 2 directions of the metallic pearl glaze. Below are pictures of this:

The bedroom ceiling

The bedroom ceiling

Bedroom ceiling close-up/detail

Bedroom ceiling close-up/detail

But we weren’t done yet!  In addition to the master bedroom, there was another tray ceiling in the dining room that needed our attention.   For this room, the goal was a finish that was a bit more formal, but still had a hand-done feel to it – which we accomplished with imitation silver leaf.  Since leaf is actual metal (in super-thin square sheets), it creates a “real” metal look that can’t be replicated with paint.  Gluing the sheets also creates subtle variations in the metal and how it reflects – creating a surprising warmth and interest which adds just the right amount attention-grabbing soft glow.  Here are some shots of this treatment:

Looking up at the silver leaf ceiling

Looking up at the silver leaf ceiling

Capturing the “glow” of the leaf ceiling

Capturing the “glow” of the leaf ceiling

leaf ceiling side view web.jpg
Leaf ceiling detail

Leaf ceiling detail

In the end, the designer and homeowner were thrilled with the results, and we were thrilled to be part of adding that last special touch in our client’s new home.

 Enjoy!

Jason