One Strategy for Paining a Box Ceiling
A box ceiling, which is commonly referred to as a tray ceiling, is a special architectural feature. An area of the ceiling is recessed beyond the rest of the ceiling plane, typically in a square or rectangle, but sometimes a more decorative, elongated polygon. Box or tray ceilings are often used in dining rooms, foyers and bedrooms to accentuate a special space. Sometimes they highlight a light fixture or contain ornate molding.
There are several strategies to paint a box ceiling, each creating a completely different effect for the space.
Match the Wall Color
One of the more common strategies for painting box ceilings is to follow the simple rule that horizontal surfaces match (ceilings) and vertical surface match (walls). For example, if you painting your walls a forest green, you would paint the vertical plane of the recessed tray that same forest green. The ceiling of the box would be painted to match the rest of the ceiling in the room, which is most likely white. This strategy plays up the color of the wall and serves to outline the opening of the box.
Out of the Box
In the out-of-the-box approach, paint the entire box ceiling a light color or white, while painting the rest of the ceiling in the room a couple of shades darker, and then the wall color even deeper. The room will feel warm and cozy, but the box ceiling will provide visual relief and appear higher. If a is installed in the box ceiling, the light backdrop will reflect and spread light around the room.
Emphasize the Box
Because the recessed tray is an important architectural feature, some might prefer to paint it a few shades darker than the rest of the ceiling so it appears to recess deeper. Cool colors such as blue, green and gray are the best choices, as they appear to make spaces recede even more. The box ceiling color should complement the wall color. For example, you might choose a cool blue for the interior of the box ceiling and chocolate brown for the walls of the room.
Opportunity for Art
While this option might not work for everyone, within the right space a mural can be the perfect painting solution for a box ceiling. Hire a local artist to paint a historic scene using dramatic colors, or use gold leaf to create exquisite designs. This effect works well in a dining room or a room in which you will be entertaining.
Tags: rest ceiling, architectural feature, ceiling light, ceiling room, forest green, light fixture, recessed tray