One of the most ignored areas of any facility utilizes a surprisingly large amount of square footage. Once in place, most of us don’t give it a second thought. It never tops the list for decorating or re-decorating. In re-design plans, it is usually an afterthought and is rarely of paramount consideration. However, it is an important part which can influence the whole decorating effect and it helps to define a space. Have you guessed what “it” is yet? A ceiling.
Look up! If the ceiling is coated with dust (especially around vents), warped, cracked or just plain unattractive and detrimental to furnishings and carpeting - fix it! A beautiful ceiling will make your facility look more spacious, more inviting and well-finished. Old drop-ceilings can be replaced with attractive, new versions which are easy to install. For a more dramatic, open feel, remove the ceiling to expose the rafters.
Important: Avoid OCD – Oppressive Ceiling Design! My friend’s father decided against using a local funeral home because the ceiling was too low and felt restrictive. His pre-arrangement plans instead took place where his decorating criteria was met.
Consider the following lofty possibilities which cover all price and time ranges.
• Plaster (basic) is still the most frequently-used medium. It can be swirled into designs or spread smooth. Unless affected by building settling, water or mold damage, this easy-to-repair finish lasts and can be repainted repeatedly.
• Modern drop ceiling panels can transform a space.
o Use acoustic tiles for theatre rooms and areas where sound is magnified by the space. These tend to have a rough-looking texture to minimize noise but offer a very boring alternative for ceiling interest.
o Thermoplastic ceiling panels come in 3-D designs. Panels can resemble pressed tin ceilings of old as well as contemporary stylings of today. They come in a variety of designs and colors and are water and corrosion-resistant.
• Natural wood ceilings range from a rustic to an extremely elegant ‘library’ look depending on a rough, matte or polished finish. Natural woodgrain planks which have a durable laminated finish and are fire resistant are a less expensive alternative.
• Brushed metal panels give a very contemporary look. These, like wood, are affixed directly to the ceiling and come in a variety of metals or colors.
• Exposed rafters create a spacious cathedral ceiling effect and make small rooms feel larger but may be more expensive to heat.
Depending on application, decide whether other special features that reduce moisture/mold, enhance light reflectance (so to save on lighting costs), and energy-saving products might be beneficial. Some products come standard with those features.
For more interest – no matter what style is chosen - traditional/ contemporary/historical, consider adding architectural or artistic features.
• Painted or appliqued ceiling designs in corners or in an all-over pattern can be appealing especially for those who enjoy symmetry. A linear geometric Greek Key design, tracery corner appliques or colored murals add interest and work to fully coordinate architecture and furnishings.
• Ceiling domes command attention. These look beautiful in grand entrance or lobby spaces. A most spectacular version can be found in The Venetian Hotel, Las Vegas but have also been seen in funeral homes and mausoleums across the country.
• Coffered and beam ceilings add dimensional space. Coffered or raised ceiling sections create architectural interest. Beams look structural but are usually just decorative. Contrasting paint adds elegance.
• Crown molding simply but beautifully frames a ceiling.
A wood drop ceiling creates timeless look.
Faux tin panel accentuates historical design.
Exposed rafters open a space.
An embellished beam ceiling looks elegant.
It should go without saying (but I’ll say it anyway) that all facilities require a ceiling. How the ceiling looks depends on those taking care of it. Think of a ceiling as the icing on the cake; the hat matching a fine outfit; the cherry on top. Will people turn away from a facility because of an unattractive ceiling? Probably not unless that theme continues throughout the facility. As with all else you do – make it beautiful and make it memorable. And keep looking up!