A trey ceiling is cut higher than the rest of the ceiling.
A trey ceiling (also tray ceiling) is an architectural feature in which the center of the ceiling is raised higher than the rest and is trimmed in molding. The result resembles an inverted tray with sides that are either straight or angled. Because of its cost and visual impact in a room, a trey ceiling deserves special consideration in the way it is painted. Use paint to give your trey ceiling a look and style to suit your taste and the decor of your home.
Paint the Ceiling the Same Color as the Walls
Painting the ceiling the same color as the main walls and portions of walls between lines of molding is a way to call attention to the molding. The greater the difference in color tone between walls and molding, the more attention the molding will receive and the more detailed your trey ceiling will look. Any paint color that works with your and reflects enough light in your room is appropriate. This treatment lends a traditional feel, especially when a rich color such as burgundy is used.
Paint the Ceiling the Same Color as the Molding
If the molding is painted rather than stained, matching the ceiling to it instead of to the walls will call attention to the ceiling and any light fixture or ceiling fan installed there. Painting the ceiling white to match white molding creates a clean look that is highly light reflective. This look is good for contemporary style. If the molding is medium or dark in tone and is darker than the walls, painting the ceiling to match will create drama.
Paint Molding and Sections of Wall Between Them the Same Color
By painting the sections of wall between lines of molding the same color as the molding, you create the illusion that those sections of wall are part of the molding. This makes the molding look more substantial in your trey ceiling. The wall paint in these areas should have the same finish as the molding paint, whether semigloss or another finish. Paint the ceiling to match the main walls or the rest of the trey.
Paint the Ceiling a Lighter Tint of the Wall Color
Use a lighter tint of the color from your walls to paint the inside of your trey ceiling for a look of sophistication. This type of subtle contrast works well for both traditional and contemporary spaces. Be sure that both shades of color will satisfy your color scheme. Light with medium or dark beige or taupe are easy to work with. So are tints and shades of most greens and blues. A tint of burgundy will be mauve or pink.
Paint the Ceiling in a Different Color or Pattern
Draw more attention to the inside of your trey ceiling by painting it a different color from the rest of the ceiling, molding or walls. Or, give it a faux finish or pattern for even more interest. Pale blue or yellow can give the illusion of sky or sunlight by contrasting within a carefully planned color scheme. Visual texture in a faux finish complements an Old World look. Tone-on-tone checks, or stripes that radiate from the center, create a daring focal point.
Tags: trey ceiling, your trey, your trey ceiling, Paint Ceiling, color scheme, attention molding, between lines
