How to pull off the dark painted ceiling trend in any room

Interior design is aiming higher than ever, as statement ceilings become all the rage. With searches for 'statement ceilings' up 310% on Pinterest, it's clear that it was out with the feature wall and in with the feature fifth wall.

As a result, we believe it our duty to show you how a dark painted ceiling can make all the difference and how to make it work in your home. 

Design rules for painted ceilings

Those of us who have taken to a bit of DIY ceiling painting in the past will attest to the fact that it’s no picnic. Having to squint through a shower of speckled paint (invest in goggles, people) isn’t the high point of a room reno.

That’s why our advice is to think carefully about the colour you plan to use and how it will transform your room. It’s important not to follow trends for the sake of it so really think about how you want to feel in the room.

In the same way that painting your walls in a dark colour can draw the space in and create a cosier vibe, a dark ceiling will have the same effect. This can work wonders in properties with cavernous ceiling heights where you want a more intimate mood, but can feel oppressive in smaller dwellings.

Need a helping hand? It can be daunting at first to make bold colour decisions. Why not book in one of our expert team of interior designers for a virtual colour consultancy to help you achieve the bold colour scheme you desire.

Now, if you're ready for some dark painted ceiling ideas to inspire and delight - read on and learn the important things to consider before rolling up those overall sleeves.

Painting your ceiling in subtle hues

If your home is not blessed with cathedral-like proportions that doesn’t mean you have to sit this one out. By using lighter shades of grey and soft pastels you can bring warmth to a room without it feeling too enclosed.

Hannah @theottohouse has cleverly chosen a slightly darker shade of pink on the ceiling which adds drama and warmth whilst still managing to keep the room feeling fresh and open.

Where’s the line?

An important point to consider is where the line should be as you want to make your painted ceiling look purposeful.

If you have them then crown molding or coving make a very useful outline to paint to. You can also paint down the wall slightly to picture rail or create your own line to get the same effect...just make sure you keep it straight!

Nervous about getting a perfectly straight line?! Tash from Lick gives us a demo:

You could also forget the lines completely like this  stunningly dramatic living room which is awash in dark blue. By painting the coving and woodwork in the same colour it's created an extremely moody vibe. Think carefully before choosing a similar option if this is how you want your space to feel.

Wallpapered ceilings ideas

Now yes, this might not be one to change up on a regular basis but we at My Bespoke Room have a huge design crush on wallpapered ceilings as they create truly unique spaces with an undeniable wow factor.

Why not consider a wallpapered ceiling for your bedroom? Not only can they create a warm and comfortable space but you also have the perfect view when lying in bed. We recommend choosing a softer, calming palette for the bedroom to help you sleep peacefully.

Patterns on your ceiling are also a great way to direct the eye and focus attention away from one point and towards another. Stripes for example work brilliantly in this dressing room, drawing you towards the bed at the end.

Struggling to pick out the perfect colour for your room? Tash from Lick shares her tips for choosing the perfect hue:

Children's bedroom ceilings - free your inner artist

For the artistic amongst you it’s time to make like Michelangelo and get creative on your ceiling. And what better place to do this than your kid's bedroom? This can be such a fun project to work on with your kids and really does have the wow factor for sleepovers.

If it’s unicorns one week and then transformers the next then our top tip is to consider using stickers on your ceiling so you don’t have to commit yourself to wallpaper or paint.

If this is your first foray into the dark painted ceiling world, don’t forget you can book in one of our expert team of interior designers for a virtual colour consultancy. Having an expert to bounce ideas off is a life saver before making any expensive mistakes.