Kitchen ceilings have decorative potential, but we often ignore the fact. Consider your kitchen ceiling when designing your space, because it can enhance the colors of your walls and cabinets or create balance in a bright decor.
Recessed Lighting
Paint your ceiling in a color that differs from the wall color. If your kitchen has pale yellow walls, for example, paint the ceiling a Wedgewood blue. Install recessed lighting, with halogen or full spectrum recessed lights, which will bring out the colors. Halogen lighting is brighter than standard bulb light, but uses less energy. You can place recessed lighting over task areas while also creating a warm, bright yet pleasant light for the whole space.
Ceiling Tiles
If you have a period home or simply like the look of ceiling tiles, there are several options for your kitchen. Decorative ceiling tiles come in a wide variety of materials, including plastic. Plastic ceiling tiles are a good choice for kitchens, because they're easily wiped clean. They come in many different styles and finishes, including metallic finishes such as copper, brass and silver. Some manufacturers are willing to send free samples, so consider experimenting with them before making your purchase.
Decorative Beams
For a French country or rustic Tuscan look, attach non-load bearing decorative wood beams to your kitchen ceiling. Choose rough-sawn beams made of real wood, and stain them yourself. Or, purchase the less expensive, lightweight faux beams. These are available in a variety of man-made and composite materials, and are formed from real beam molds to give them a realistic look.
Crown Molding
Paint your walls the same color as your ceiling. Find crown molding that suits your kitchen decor. If you have a modern kitchen, choose molding with clean lines. If you have a country style kitchen, choose a design and color that works well with your kitchen cabinets and furnishings. If you have light stained or natural pine cabinets, consider staining your molding in the same color, or white-washing it.
Paint a Sky
Create a serene blue sky in your kitchen. Paint the ceiling sky blue, and let it dry. Create realistic white fluffy clouds by dipping a slightly wet sea sponge into white paint that has been slightly watered down. Experiment on a tile or other surface before applying the technique to the ceiling. Dab the paint onto the ceiling with the sponge, creating a cloud outline. While the paint is still wet, rub the paint in some areas near the center of the cloud, moving toward the edges. Leave some of the edges looking more diffuse. Finish with a semi-gloss glaze, which you'll be able to wipe clean.
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