Decorating Rooms With High Vaulted Ceilings

Rooms with high vaulted ceilings offer a unique architectural feature that can be both a blessing and a challenge when it comes to decorating. The soaring height creates a sense of grandeur and spaciousness, but it can also make the room feel cold and cavernous if not addressed thoughtfully. There are many ways to decorate a room with high vaulted ceilings, and the best approach will depend on the overall style of the space and the personal preferences of the homeowner.

Create a Focal Point

One of the most important considerations when decorating a room with high vaulted ceilings is to create a focal point. This will help to draw the eye upward and prevent the room from feeling too empty. A focal point can be anything from a large piece of artwork to a dramatic chandelier to a beautiful fireplace. If you have a fireplace, consider decorating the mantel with artwork, plants, candles, or other decorative objects. For a room without a fireplace, consider adding a large piece of furniture, such as a sofa or armoire, in front of the wall with the highest ceiling. This will help to define the space and create a sense of intimacy.

Use Vertical Lines

Another way to visually connect the floor to the ceiling is to incorporate vertical lines into the design. This could be achieved with tall furniture pieces, such as floor lamps, bookcases, or drapes, or with vertical patterns on wallpaper, upholstery, or rugs. Vertical lines help to make a room feel taller and more balanced, which is especially important in a room with high vaulted ceilings.

Break Up the Space

Decorating a room with high vaulted ceilings often involves breaking up the space to make it feel more intimate and welcoming. This can be done by using furniture to create distinct seating areas or by using different lighting levels to define different zones within the room. For example, a large living room with high vaulted ceilings could be divided into a seating area, a dining area, and a reading nook. An area rug can be used to define each space and create a sense of separation between different zones.

Use Warm Colors

The color scheme you choose for a room with high vaulted ceilings can also play a role in making the space feel more inviting. Warm colors like red, orange, and yellow tend to make rooms feel cozy and inviting, while cool colors like blue and green can make rooms feel cold and distant. When decorating a room with high vaulted ceilings, it's best to use a warm color palette to create a sense of warmth and intimacy.

Incorporate Texture

Texture is another important element to consider when decorating a room with high vaulted ceilings. Adding texture to a room can help to create a sense of depth and interest, which is essential for balancing the height of the room. This can be achieved by using different materials for furniture, rugs, and curtains, or by adding textured wallpaper or wall coverings.

Consider the Ceiling

The ceiling itself provides an opportunity to add visual interest and enhance the overall decor. If the ceiling is exposed wood, consider staining it a warm color to create a cozy feel. If the ceiling is drywall, consider adding decorative beams or molding to break up the expanse. Consider adding an accent color to the ceiling, or even painting it a complementary color to the walls.

Choose the Right Lighting

Lighting is an essential element in any room, but it's especially important in a room with high vaulted ceilings. A well-lit room can minimize the sense of emptiness and create a more inviting space. Avoid using a single overhead light fixture, as this can make the room feel harsh and cold. Instead, use layers of lighting, such as sconces, table lamps, and floor lamps, to create a more balanced and inviting atmosphere.

Embrace the View

If your room has high vaulted ceilings and large windows, take full advantage of the view. Keep the windows free of clutter, and decorate the room with light colors to reflect the natural light. Even if your view is not particularly scenic, the natural light will help to brighten the room and make it feel more open and inviting.

Decorating a room with high vaulted ceilings can be a challenge, but it's also an exciting opportunity to create a unique and inviting space. By following these tips, you can create a room that feels both grand and cozy, and that you'll be happy to spend time in.