How To Decorate A High Ceiling Wall

How to Decorate a High Ceiling Wall

High ceilings can add a sense of grandeur and spaciousness to a room, but they can also present a challenge when it comes to decorating. The sheer vertical expanse can feel overwhelming, leaving you wondering how to fill the empty space without making the room feel cold and uninviting. Fortunately, there are several creative and effective ways to decorate high ceiling walls and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your space.

Embrace Verticality

One of the most effective ways to decorate high ceilings is to embrace their verticality. This involves using elongated and vertical design elements to draw the eye upwards, creating a sense of height and balance. Consider incorporating the following:

Tall Wall Art: Lean large canvases, tapestries, or mirrors against the wall, positioning them vertically. This will create a visual anchor and break up the empty wall space.
Curtains Reaching the Ceiling: Instead of stopping curtains at the windowsill, extend them all the way to the ceiling. This creates a sense of unity and elongates the room's vertical lines.
Floor-to-Ceiling Bookshelves: If you have a library enthusiast in the family, consider incorporating floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. These not only provide ample storage but also create a dramatic vertical element.
Tall Plants: Introduce tall plants like Ficus, Monstera, or Snake Plants to add a touch of nature and create a visual focal point.

When selecting vertical elements, consider the scale of the room and the furniture placement. Ensure that the chosen pieces are proportionate to the space and don't overwhelm the room.

Create Visual Interest with Architectural Details

High ceilings provide an excellent opportunity to add architectural details that add visual interest and depth to the room. Here are some ideas to consider:

Moulding: Use decorative moulding around the ceiling to create a defined border and define the space. You can choose from a variety of profiles, from simple and classic to elaborate and ornate.
Crown Moulding: Crown moulding is a decorative trim that is installed at the junction of the wall and ceiling. It can be used to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the room.
Wainscoting: Wainscoting is a decorative paneling that is installed on the lower portion of the wall. It can add visual interest and break up the monotony of a large wall.
Beam Accents: Simulate the look of exposed beams by adding faux beams to the ceiling. These can be made from wood, polyurethane, or even foam, and they can add a rustic or contemporary touch to the room.

When incorporating architectural details, ensure that they are consistent with the overall style and feel of the room. Avoid using too many different elements, as it can create a cluttered and overwhelming look.

Embrace the Power of Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in decorating high ceilings. Strategically placed lighting fixtures can create ambiance, enhance the visual appeal, and highlight architectural details. Consider the following:

Chandeliers: A chandelier is a classic choice for high ceilings. It can be a statement piece that draws the eye upwards and creates a sense of drama. Choose a chandelier that complements the style of the room.
Pendant Lights: Pendant lights are a versatile option that can be suspended from the ceiling at various heights. They can be used to create a focal point or to provide task lighting in a specific area.
Recessed Lighting: Recessed lighting is a good option for providing general illumination and creating a clean, minimalist look. It can be used to highlight architectural features such as beams or crown moulding.
Sconces: Sconces are wall-mounted lighting fixtures that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the room. They can be used to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

When selecting lighting fixtures, consider the size of the room, the height of the ceiling, and the desired ambiance. Choose fixtures that are compatible with the overall style and color scheme of the room.