Not all ceilings are created equal. Some were made to steal the show. From weathered wood trusses to inky shiplap, exposed beams and the most stately coffered ceilings, we’ve gathered seven different applications that will never, ever let you forget that fifth wall again. Scroll below for 23 stunning variations that will inspire you to think outside the box when it comes to your ceiling design. As you’ll see, they all have a different vibe but one thing is for certain, all eyes will be looking up.

 

 

Exposed Trusses + Ceiling Beams

 

 

Whether restoring an old home or infusing character into a new build, exposed beams are such a stunning way to open up a ceiling and add height + warmth. From simple, rough-hewn beams to full-on exposed trusses, have a look at how designers put these ceilings to work. We especially love this look with an unexpected pairing of modern or classic decor.

 

Design: LDA Architects  | Photography: Sean Litchfield Photography

 

Interior Design: Emily Henderson | Photography: Sara Tramp for EHD

 

Interior Design and Photography: Sarah Sherman Samuel 

 

Architecture: Space Exploration | Photography: Kevin Greenberg for Space Exploration

 

via: Domino | Interior Design and Home of: Hillary Kerr | Photography: Jenna Peffley

 

Interior Design and Photography: Studio McGee

 

 

Coffered Ceilings + Millwork

 

 

Straight out of a castle, coffered ceilings have that insane old-world beauty that instantly transforms a room with a sense of grandness. In keeping with that ornate application, we are also seeing a more modern take on adornment with the introduction of millwork on ceilings.

 

Architecture and Design: Rodolphe Parente | Photography: Olivier Amsellem

 

Interior Design: Lexi Westergard | Photography: John Woodcock

 

Noelle Hotel in Nashville via Room for Tuesday

 

 

Shiplap

 

 

We are still not over shiplap; especially when placed on the ceiling. This look is 100% Joanna Gaines approved and adds the most amazing texture to a space without being totally overpowering. Much like the exposed ceilings, shiplap looks great natural or painted white for a vibe that’s somewhere between coastal and farmhouse.

 

Interior Design: Julie Howard | Photography: Stoffer Photography

 

Interior Design: Amber Interiors  | Photography: Tessa Neustadt

 

Interior Design: Emily Henderson | Photography: Sara Tramp for EHD

 

Interior Design: Chango & Co. | Photography: Raquel Langworthy

 

 

Wallpapered Ceilings

 

 

Don’t think you’re brave enough for wallpapered ceilings? These examples will prove that theory false. Whether super subtle or a bold pattern, this statement ceiling application is so stunning. Bonus, it draws the eyes up, making the room appear taller and more grandiose. 

 

Interior Design: Ali Budd Interiors

 

Design and Photography: Room for Tuesday

 

Interior Design: Shop Skout | Photography: Ryan Garvin

 

 

Painted Ceilings

 

 

If you are wanting to make a statement but aren’t ready to fully commit to ripping out plaster or adding millwork, painted ceilings are a great option. They are relatively low-cost and still give you that high impact. We especially love the look of textural shiplap ceilings painted a dark, inky hue.

 

Interior Design: Sophie Burke Design

 

Interior Design: Tamara Magel

 

 

 

Tile + Brick Ceilings

 

 

The architectural detail of a barrel vault ceiling is gorgeous in and of itself, but when covered in a sea of brick or subway tile it rises to a whole new level. Have you ever seen anything so stunning?

 

design: Benecki Homes and Melanie Turner Designs

 

via @lohobride | Architecture: Jose Ramirez

 

via Loft Kolasinski

 

 

Glass Ceilings

 

 

Skylights and full window ceilings are tucked in this category of standout ceilings. They are reminiscent of a light-filled English sunroom. Sunglasses are mandatory in these spaces and we’re completely ok with that.

Interior Design: Imperfect Interiors

 

Interior Design: Gray and Co.

 

For more design topics, have a look at these posts:

• The Best Online Sources for Window Drapery
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• Where to Find Amazing Vintage Art

 

And for more information on creative business strategy:

• How to Make a Hashtag Happen
• The Best Programs + Apps for Organization
• How to Get Your Design Work Published

 

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Erin Lepperd is an interior designer – turned digital media editor with a penchant for breathtaking interiors. When she’s not gabbing about design, you’ll find her wrangling her wild and wonderful 5 year old twins, brunching like it’s her job and exploring the wilds of New England as a California transplant. Spoiler alert…Boston is cold + incredibly charming.