Decorating A Room With Cathedral Ceilings

Decorating a Room with Cathedral Ceilings

Cathedral ceilings, with their soaring heights and dramatic angles, create a sense of grandeur and spaciousness in any room. However, decorating these architectural features can be a challenge. Here's a guide to help you create a harmonious and visually appealing space with cathedral ceilings:

1. Highlighting the Height

Accentuate the verticality of cathedral ceilings by drawing the eye upwards with tall, slender furnishings. Use floor-to-ceiling curtains, tall bookcases, or indoor trees to create a sense of infinity. Avoid cluttering the space with too many small or low pieces, as they can diminish the intended grandeur.

2. Balancing Proportions

To create a balanced look, choose furniture that is proportionate to the size of the room and the height of the ceilings. Oversized couches or bulky chairs can make the space feel cramped. Instead, opt for pieces that are low-profile and allow plenty of negative space.

3. Maximizing Natural Light

Natural light can enhance the ethereal beauty of cathedral ceilings. Install large windows or skylights to flood the room with sunlight. If natural light is limited, use sheer curtains to allow light to filter in while maintaining privacy. Artificial lighting should be placed strategically to illuminate the ceiling and create ambiance.

4. Incorporating Color and Patterns

Color and pattern can be used to create different moods in a room with cathedral ceilings. Light, airy colors, such as white, beige, or pale blues, can make the room feel more spacious and ethereal. Bold colors, such as deep blues or greens, can create a more intimate and dramatic atmosphere. Consider adding patterns that draw the eye upwards, such as vertical stripes or geometric designs.

5. Choosing the Right Lighting Fixtures

Lighting fixtures play a crucial role in enhancing the architectural features of cathedral ceilings. Chandeliers or pendant lights that hang from the peak of the ceiling create a dramatic focal point. Recessed lighting or wall sconces can provide ambient light without overpowering the space. Use dimmers to adjust the lighting levels and create different ambiances.

6. Creating Focal Points

To prevent the room from feeling too vast, create focal points that draw the eye. This could be a fireplace, a large artwork, or a statement-making piece of furniture. Position the focal point at one end of the room or under a particularly high section of the ceiling.

7. Adding Architectural Details

Architectural details, such as beams, moldings, or niches, can add visual interest and create a sense of intimacy. Exposed beams can define different areas of the room, while crown moldings can draw the eye upwards. Niches or built-in shelves can provide display space for artwork or collectibles.

8. Considering Acoustics

High ceilings can lead to echoes and reverberation. To mitigate this issue, incorporate soft furnishings, such as rugs, curtains, and upholstered furniture. These materials can absorb sound and create a more comfortable acoustic environment.

9. Decorating the Walls

When decorating the walls of a room with cathedral ceilings, it's important to consider the height and angle of the walls. Vertical artwork or mirrors can help to elongate the space. Oversized paintings or tapestries can create a dramatic statement. Avoid hanging artwork too low, as it can emphasize the height of the ceilings.