Learn how to choose the best ceiling paint colors.
Of course, a refreshingly crisp white is sometimes the best solution.
To help you determine the right choice, use these tips for selecting a ceiling color you’ll love.
Credit: Edmund Barr
But that doesn’t necessarily mean the room will feel claustrophobic.
Visually lowered ceilings can evoke a cozy, intimate feeling.
Choosing ceilingpaint colorsis a lot like choosing wall colors.
Credit: Annie Schlecther
Consider the source and strength of light the room receives during the time you’re most often using it.
For example, bright daylight bouncing off a blush pink or sky blue ceiling creates an airy feeling.
While in the evening, candlelight and lamplight reflecting on a tomato-red ceiling will produce a rich glow.
Credit: Annie Schlechter
Should You Paint Your Ceiling The Same Color as Your Walls?
However, in some situations, it achieves the opposite effect.
Keeping the color of the ceiling paint the same as the walls can often help a room feel larger.
Credit: David Tsay
Since ceilings appear in shadow, the resulting diluted color will still relate favorably to the wall color.
When used overhead, white tends to disappear, so your attention focuses on the walls and furnishings.
A white ceiling can also offset an intense wall color.
Credit: Brian Anderson
Boldly colored walls appear crisp and sharp, and the ceiling feels higher.
If the walls are pale and therefore space-expanding,painting the ceiling whiteopens the space even more.
To choose the right white paint color for your ceilings, pay attention to the undertones.
Credit: David Tsay
Select one with faintly yellow or blue undertones that coordinate with the rest of the room’s color palette.
The glaze softens the effect, and the sheen reflects enough light to keep the ceiling from being overwhelming.
It’s also important to note that color need not come only from paint.
Credit: Jeff Herr
If you like the look of wood, considercovering the ceiling with wood paneling.
Or trywallpapering your ceilingfor a pop of pattern.
Where do you start and stop color?
In low attics, carrying the same color across the ceiling from wall to wall is a practical solution.
However, you’re free to increase the apparent height of theceilingwith a little visual trickery.
Then, let your furnishings and accessories provide the color in a white, light-reflecting space.
When painting around molding, use tape carefully to keep the dividing line sharply defined and straight.
An uneven line where the two colors meet will spoil the look.
This will keep the room from feeling cramped.
If necessary, add crown molding to define where the walls end and the ceiling begins.
