As the New Year hurtles towards us so too does new trends for our homes. But one that is set to be huge for 2025 might come as a shock to some homeowners.
As a rule, when painting our rooms we would use the colour we want on the walls and paint the ceilings white. Ceilings are typically painted white because white reflects the most light, making a room feel brighter and more spacious because it evenly distributes natural and artificial light throughout the space.
But interior experts reckon that we are going to make bold choices when it comes to decorating in 2025 and start painting our ceilings – and not only in white.
They say this unexpected design element can add a touch of drama, personality, and visual interest to any room. It is, however, a big departure from our common bright white ceilings which we’ve faithfully stuck with.
Interior design expert Sylvia James at HomeHow.co.uk said homeowners are increasingly looking for unique ways to personalise our spaces and by stepping away from the standard white ceiling, you can create a truly distinctive and memorable interior.
She explained that a painted ceiling – whether that be in colour or design – creates visual Interest and draws the eye upward.
She said: “This is especially effective in rooms with low ceilings, as it can help to create the illusion of height.”
Sylvia explained that the colour and design of a painted ceiling can significantly impact the overall mood of a room. She added: “A bold, dark colour can create a cosy and intimate atmosphere, while a light, airy colour can make a space feel more open and inviting.”
And it can also emphasise architectural features such as mouldings, beams or even skylights.
If you’re ready to embrace the painted ceiling trend, here’s her tips on how to do it:
Monochromatic Magic
Painting your ceiling the same colour as your walls can create a seamless, minimalist look. This approach is particularly effective in modern or contemporary spaces. The monochromatic palette can elongate the room, making it feel more spacious and airy. It’s a subtle yet impactful way to elevate your interior design.
Bold and Daring
For a dramatic statement, consider painting your ceiling a bold, contrasting colour. A dark, moody ceiling can create a cosy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for bedrooms or living rooms. Alternatively, a bright, vibrant colour can energise a space and add a playful touch. When using bold colours, consider the overall colour scheme of the room and choose a complementary shade.
Pattern Play
For a truly unique and personalised touch, consider painting a pattern or mural on your ceiling. This can be a great way to add visual interest to a room and create a focal point. Geometric patterns, floral motifs, or celestial designs can all be incorporated into a painted ceiling. When choosing a pattern, consider the overall style of your home and the desired mood of the room. A bold, geometric pattern can add a modern edge, while a delicate floral pattern can create a romantic and feminine atmosphere.
To ensure a successful painted ceiling project, you should be sure to thoroughly clean the area to remove dirt, dust, and any existing paint that is peeling or chipping. Then fill any cracks, holes, or dents. Sand the repaired areas smooth to create a seamless surface. Finally you should apply a high-quality ceiling primer to improve paint adhesion and create a uniform surface. This is especially important if you’re painting over a textured ceiling or a surface with significant imperfections.
Choosing the right paint for your ceiling is also crucial. Opt for a high-quality, low-VOC paint that is specifically designed for ceilings. A satin or eggshell finish is a good choice, as it is durable and easy to clean. Avoid flat paints, as they can be more prone to stains and marks.
Always consider the overall colour scheme of the room and the desired mood. A lighter colour can make a room feel more spacious and airy, while a darker colour can create a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
When painting your ceiling Sylvia advises you use a brush to cut in around the edges of the ceiling, ensuring a clean and precise line and to use a roller with a long nap to apply paint to the main surface of the ceiling.
She added: “Roll in a smooth, even motion, avoiding drips and streaks.”