Lifestyle Pick (Statement Ceilings and Walls)

Welcome to a Dream Home With Unique Ceilings & Walls

BY PRAMITA BOSE

Archaic or avant-garde, arcane or blatant — both simple elegance and profound esotericism underpin current-day interior décor that stand out with statement ceilings and walls.

There is an element of shock value, in-your-face honesty, a kind of staring-squarely-into-the-eye vibe, a stand-out-of-the-crowd quality and an attitude that nonchalantly spells out ‘I don’t care two hoots about anything’ ingrained in present-day creativity fashioned by maverick inventors, architects and designers who have the nerves to take risks and the conviction to translate their out-of-this-world dreams into reality.

Stylish Ceilings

“Statement ceilings are the order of the day for current-day interiors that unleash a different dimension and character to a room. Coffered, recessed, vaulted ceilings or those with a dome shape are the popular picks that resonate with the aficionados seeking sophistication,” opines interior designer Sonali Ashar of Hacienda Interior Architects.

Art enthusiasts love blending beauty with practicality seamlessly and passionately. The optimum mix of finesse and functionality flashes a mystical beacon of surrealism.

“Recently, we used a botanical wallpaper to envelop walls and ceilings and the result was absolutely smashing to say the least. At another site, a film production house had pronounced the word ‘glamour’ in its briefing. So, we vaulted the reception area ceiling, painted it jet black with a hand-printed white puzzle pattern and finished it with a lick of glitter. The outcome was once again jaw dropping!” recounts Ashar.

Truth of False Ceilings

False ceilings are like phenomenal creations with multiple merits. They are effectively utilised to house light fittings; create even surfaces; fashion a convenient surface level for ambient lights; demarcate an area, passage, circulation path; hide services such as fire hydrants and HVAC Systems (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning: regulate temperature, humidity, and air quality to create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment) as well as complex electrical conduits in commercial spaces.

“They can be articulated in traditional or modern avatars depending on the nature of the space,” holds Amita Trehan, founder of Bravur'a Designs, a leading Delhi-NCR-based interior design firm.

False ceilings are incredibly versatile. On a realistic front, they are great for concealing wiring, air-conditioning ducts and structural elements but their advantages go far beyond functionality. They help improve acoustics, control temperature and offer a canvas to experiment with lighting and layering.

“For me, the magnetic appeal of false ceilings lies in the manner in which they allow us to shape a space creatively while solving practical challenges. They are essential in modern designs,” avers designer Shabrin Mom, the principal designer and founder of Skew Studio — a multidisciplinary design studio.

False ceilings, besides the beautification factor, are an indispensable component to an interior space. “False ceilings cover up all the clipped wires, encasings, pipes and other mechanical systems; act as an insulator and a soundproofing agent to reduce heat and noise; improve acoustics and in general, are a stylish and an elegant feature that lifts the overall look of a room. Why should then the ceiling be left neglected as an underwhelming part of an interior space?” enquires Ashar while raving about false ceilings.

Summer Relief

Considering that India lies in the tropical zone, should false ceilings then help balance temperature during the long sultry summers in Indian homes and offices?

“Temperature control can only be successful if the said built space is the top floor of the building. Also for insulation to be effective enough, we need to add a layer of heat resistant or absorbing material such as thermocol,” suggests Trehan.

Given India’s tropical climate and humid weather, false ceilings act as a buffer, lowering heat transfer from the roof and helping spaces stay cooler.

“Gypsum and POP (plaster of Paris) are great materials for thermal insulation, and we often combine them with reflective paints or even ventilated designs to optimise their cooling effect. It’s an understated but a powerful way to make homes and offices cosier while curbing energy consumption during those relentless torrid summers,” informs Mom.

Décor to Die for

“A false ceiling can captivate minds if unusual materials are ingeniously leveraged in its conception, delineation and transition from a clutch of drafted designs on paper to concrete forms,” corroborates Trehan. They are, namely ornate wall paper, metallic paints, wooden rafters to add greater warmth, wooden claddings, textured paints, chandeliers creating a magical play of light and shadow, plus gold leafing exuding a lot of richness and artisanal value to a given space.

Exposed duct work can also be used to create an industrial chic impact (an interior design style that combines raw, industrial elements with polished, cushy and modish touches). While all the above are surface finishes, one can explore uncommon shapes like semi-circles, alcoves and niches to transport the onlookers to the bygone eras.

Cornices are a regular feature that gives definition to an interior space. But now we need to get a little adventurous! It would be a great idea to consider drenching the ceiling in the colour similar to the wall that would potentially open up the space or even opt for a hand painted trompe l'oeil (rendering an illusroy artistic effect, especially to trick the eye into believing a painted detail to be a three-dimensional object) ceiling.

“Such creative gems have the undeniable power to stupefy viewers and evoke their sighs of bewilderment,” notes Ashar.

“Wood rafters or a waffle coffered design look so brilliant. Wallpaper with moulding or chair rail wall papers (simulating architectural details) is another stylish option as is a ceiling medallion. I remember our team having designed a multi-brand luxury store Art of Time in a graded heritage building (categorised on the basis of its historical, architectural and archaeological value. The grading system helps determine how much care and protection the building needs), which had an original century-old jackarched ceiling. We restored it to its lost glory and treated it with a beautiful gold leafing technique,” she further instances.

Let There be Light

Lights play a pivotal role in adding character and mood to a room. They are an important element of statement ceilings.

“Lighting is everything when it comes to statement ceilings. It’s the secret ingredient that can make or break designs. At Skew Studio, we layer lights strategically to add dimension and mood, whether it’s recessed lighting for a soft effect or a dazzling illumination or dramatic pendants and chandeliers to achieve a bold statement. Lights aren’t just functional. They are what bring textures, tints and ornate imageries to life, highlighting every design detail. A well-lit ceiling becomes a poetic artwork of its own,” deduces Mom.

Lighting boasts a mixed bag, varying from lavish, deluxe options to simple, budget items that fit into all pockets. Recessed lights in coffers to dramatic chandeliers with dimmers can alter the mood by either pepping it up or calming it down. Cove lights, track lights, pendants, profile lights belong to a fancy oeuvre to choose from.

“In one of our ongoing projects at the workplace, we used a dramatic rotating crystal light that throws a mirage of myriad waves on the ceiling! There is a delusion of fluidity in the design execution. Be it simple or swanky lighting options, they should make the space thoroughly exciting and enticing, thus smoothly merging with the aesthetic elements,” reports Ashar.

Lights complete the drama that one intends to create with statement ceilings depending on the materials used. “Light fittings can highlight and accentuate the ceilings depending on the lights used. The same can either create a subtle, soothing wash of light or craft scallops that become embellishing features by themselves,” asserts Trehan.

Joy in Variety

As they say variety is the spice of life, so is the case of lights. An assorted mix of lights in varied shapes and designs, and with interesting light-fitting elements can certainly beautify the ceilings.

“The options for ceiling lights are endless, and they have never been more alluring. We believe that a ceiling looks its best when it’s not overcrowded with fixtures. Less is always more for us,” states Mom. For spaces where one wants to make a statement, chandeliers and pendant lights are fantastic options. They add drama and depth, turning a functional fixture into a piece of art.

“Lighting is a tool of opportunity to enhance the overall mood of a room and amplify its design story,” she further infers.

Trehan dispenses that “today we are spoilt for choice when we select light fixtures, right from point lights, track lights, chandeliers to profile lights that are barely seen on the ceiling until switched on. Additionally, long beam lights, focus lights, statement lighting fixtures…..you just name it and we have it all in our kitty.”

Fan Frills

Fans are also a key aspect of a ceiling, especially in sweltering seasons. Given the new-age pleasing-to-the-eye, unorthodox designs, can uncanny fan designs add both aesthetic and functional features to a ceiling?

“Ceilings are a surface too and deserve as much attention as any wall for that matter. Fans have upgraded the design scene drastically with rich vintage, retro, whacky versions and those that mimic the ocean breeze. It’s innovation galore,” volunteers Trehan.

Today the market is bursting with some amazingly-carved fans to compliment different interior styles. Copious shades, ample blade designs, teeming design elements like LEDs in noiseless editions and with smart features, such as remote controls and home automation, flood the commercial stores of fans. One can cull his/her favourite from a diverse fare.

Fans have come a long way from being purely functional to emerging as a style statement in their own right. “It’s always a discussion with clients on chandeliers versus fans but the good news is that now there are plenty of incredible options available that combine both aesthetics and utility like chandelier-fan hybrids,” inputs Mom.

Brands like FansArt revolutionised ceiling fans with their stunning designs comprising sleek metallic finishes, beautiful wooden blades and even sculptural forms. In commercial establishments like eateries, wall-mounted fans are becoming popular to maintain clean ceiling lines.

“Fans are no longer a compromise. In fact, they are a plea to exalt your designs while keeping the space functional and comfortable,” observes Mom.

Green Decor

Sustainability leads to the concept of ethical and responsible décor. The general query is that what nature-borne or eco-friendly mediums can be sourced to fashion simple yet elegant ceilings.

Going organic in designing isn’t just a trend, it’s a sense of moral accountability. For ceilings and walls, materials like bamboo, cork, reclaimed wood and lime plaster are some fascinating options. Bamboo and cork are lightweight and renewable. Plus, it brings natural warmth to spaces, while lime plaster offers a timeless, breathable finish.

“At Skew Studio, we also explore novel recycled materials and organic paints to ensure that our designs not only look top notch but are kind to the environment too. Mindful choices like these create spaces that feel as good as they look — elegant, ethical and enduring,” assures Mom.

Apart from gypsum that is widely used, materials like cork and bamboo are excellent as natural insulators for managing indoor temperatures. Another excellent option that needs to be incorporated more into design is ‘living ceilings’. These include installing plants into the ceilings to purify the air around besides creating natural insulation, curtailing energy consumption and enhancing the overall efficiency of the space. Recycled panels made from materials like wood, metal or even repurposed plastic can be great alternatives.

“Keep the ceilings simple and elegant — purely functional so as to create depth and to mount light fixtures. That’s the way to check the carbon footprint as much as possible,” advises Trehan.

Walls With Wow Appeal!

Walls are a powerful reflection of a room’s residents, offering worthy insights into their personalities and lifestyles. Each individual has his/her own unique requirements to chase and fulfill. For kids, vibrant colours, playful motifs and educational elements create a lively, creative atmosphere. Senior citizens often prefer warm, muted tones with sentimental artwork or serene landscapes, evoking comfort and nostalgia. Couples favour neutral, soothing tints with personal touches like travel photos, framed quotes or joint hobbies, symbolising harmony and shared experiences. Girls' rooms may showcase soft hues or bold statements with whimsical art, revealing personality and dreams. Last but not the least, boys often gravitate towards adventurous themes, deep shades, cool imageries or sporty patterns.

Impressively Quirky

“I also enjoy dabbling in unconventional materials like reclaimed wood, exposed brick or metallic finishes to further elevate the designs. We can also furnish metallic wall treatment to introduce glamour, while kitschy elements like quirky quotes or pop art-and-cultural references inject a streak of fun and witty humour. Whether through dramatic frescos, unique materials or playful art, statement walls are a great way to brainstorm and transform a room into something dynamic and subjective,” Sawant elucidates ahead.

Palette Picture

A motley shade card is dominating the statement walls and ceilings these days.

Rich, bold tones like deep charcoal, navy blue and forest green, which add drama and sophistication, are making a splash on the statement walls and ceilings. For example, a living room with a dark navy statement wall creates a cosy, elegant atmosphere. Metallic accents, such as gold or copper, are also popular, especially for ceilings, adding a pensive mood and a hint of lavishness. Earthy pigments like terracotta or rust are trending too, offering warmth and grounding, as seen in contemporary designs that bring nature indoors.

Both monochromes and a mixed palette are in vogue, depending on the design intent. Monochrome schemes, using variations of a single colour, are gaining popularity for their clean, sleek and modern appeal. For example, an all-white room with subtle texture contrasts creates a serene, minimalist aura.

Moreover, mixed palettes are ruling the roost, with designers blending complementary tinges to ooze vibrancy and a wave of infectious energy. A living room with a rich mishmash of deep blue, mustard and burnt orange adds a layered look with multiple facets.

“At our firm, we don't just design; we also understand each client’s demands and source every material with expertise to ensure the final design’s alignment with his/her vision and needs. The choice between the two depends on the desired mood — solid hues for tranquility and an assorted colour bar for vim and verve,” dispenses Sawant.

Stencils That Seem Unreal

“Stencil designs add flair to a space. For example, in a recent project, we used a delicate floral stencil on a single feature wall in a living room. The intricate design became the captivating cornerstone of the room, piquing a viewer’s curiosity without overpowering the space. The gentle tones of the stencil blended seamlessly with the room’s neutral palette, conceiving a sophisticated mélange of depth and texture. The beauty of stencil designs lies in their versatility,” exemplifies Sawant.

Stencil designs are also incredibly cost-effective compared to custom wallpaper or large-scale murals. They are a smart investment bet. The technique can be easily customised to fit any room size or a theme, making it the perfect choice for those looking to add a personal touch to their plush, upscale interiors. Whether it’s through subdued tones or bold contrasts, highlighting a stencil design on an accent wall can convert a room into something memorable while maintaining balance and refinement.

Resources to Revamp

There are plenty of décor items to beautify a wall. “In our recent project, we focused on creating a slew of visually-engrossing walls by sticking to both neoclassical and minimalist styles,” reports Sawant.

To do up the walls, the following agents can be used, namely wall art, mirrors, floating shelves, wall sculptures, wall decals (thin, vinyl stickers or graphics that are applied to a wall or other smooth surface for decoration or information. They are also known as wall stickers, wall tattoos, wall vinyls, wall graphics, wall appliques or wall clings), stencils, tapestries, et al.

“By combining these elements to spruce up the surfaces, we achieved a balance between functionality and artistry, ensuring that each wall reflected both the client's personality and the overall design ethos of the respective space,” utters Sawant.

Shelf Life

Bookshelves, floating shelves, built-in storage, pin-up boards on the walls are integral to modern-day homes wherein less or zero furniture use up the floor space to save more space and leave enough room to move or lounge around.

Minimalism is the foundation of contemporary urban interior décor. It augments value with its easy-to-install-and-fix quality and flexible utility.

“It fetches in simplicity, stressing on clean lines, functional furniture and a clutter-free environment. The beauty of minimalist design lies in its versatility and ease of installation. Of late, in one of our assignments, the use of minimalist floating shelves in the study area and on plain, neutral-tinged walls helped create a staid, spacious feel. Minimalist designs also allow hassle-free maintenance and seamlessly adapt to the evolving trends or subjective predilections,” volunteers Sawant.

Convertible Furnishings

Modular, foldable or collapsible furniture with smaller size, portability, multipurpose quality, sufficient space-saving as well as storage capacity are much in use nowadays against the wall backdrop.

Such furnishings have become increasingly popular in modern interiors, especially in urban spaces where space is often limited. These pieces are designed to be perfect for today’s fast-paced, dynamic lifestyles.

“We can also incorporate a modular sofa that can be rearranged to fit different configurations, maximising both comfort and space. A foldable dining table can be placed against a wall in the kitchen, easily collapsed when not in use to make more room and resolve the space-crunch issue. Additionally, wall-mounted foldable desks in the study closet provide a neat, compact, functional workspace that can be stowed away when not needed,” recommends Sawant.

This type of furnishings offers practical storage solutions while maintaining an aesthetic charm. They not only make small spaces feel larger but also help dismiss congestion, creating a more organised and tidy living environment.

Window Wonder and Balcony Boon

Windows (French, louvred or otherwise with or without curtains and pelmets) and balconies (with or without railed grills) are also an essential part of the walls that give a break to its continuity and open an outlet to the world outside.

Windows and balconies are not merely functional architectural elements; they are transformative features that breathe life into the walls, providing a break in their perpetuity and effortlessly connecting the interiors with the world outside. These openings act as embellished frames for nature’s beauty, inviting sunlight to dance across the room and providing a panoramic view of the surroundings.

“In a recent design, we utilised large French windows that graced the living area, allowing streams of natural light to flood the space. Their elegant simplicity, paired with sheer curtains, created a sense of openness yet at the same time, maintained an airy, minimalist aesthetic. The addition of delicate railings to a balcony extended the living area into fresh, lush outdoors, thus paving the route for an intimate escape while visually boosting the room’s connection with the view outside,” observes Sawant.

Whether adorned with classic pelmets, ornate louvres or simply left bare, these windows and balconies become the heartbeat of a room, transforming blank walls into decorative, breathing works of art. Their intricate designs can turn an ordinary space into one of opulence, extravagance and serenity, while their functional role — offering ventilation and a view — makes them indispensable. These impactful elements not only break the monotony of walls but also create a symphony between the interior and the exterior, making any space feel expansive and alive.

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