Bedroom ceiling designs

when you're redesigning your bedroom, it's easy to overlook the ceiling. But if you think of that space as a clean canvas, there are a number of options you can choose from to add unforgettable style to your space.

Your ceiling design options go beyond whether to stay with a traditional flat, bright white surface or a ceiling with "popcorn" or some other texture. Your ceiling doesn't even have to be white. For a simple and inexpensive but dramatic change, consider painting your ceiling the same shade as the other walls of your room. Some design experts recommend painting your ceiling a lighter shade of the same color as your walls. Consider the colors you're using throughout the room, even in your accessories. You could also have a mural painted on the ceiling. Favorites for bedrooms include clouds, stars and other sky scenes.

Ceilings are a great place to incorporate architectural elements such as coffers and boxed beams. If your remodel includes construction, consider a vaulted ceiling to add both drama and light to your bedroom. A barrel-vaulted ceiling over the bed can help create an intimate space while also adding room for dramatic lighting options. A vaulted ceiling flanked by large windows can create a stunning focal point looking out over a beautiful nature scene or garden. Skylights between the beams of a vaulted ceiling will help create the feeling of sleeping outdoors, and they can give you a great view of the stars at night and sunshine in the morning.

You don't have to raise the roof to add interest, however. A tray ceiling gives a room a traditional and elegant touch, and beadboard overhead softens a room's look and works well with a country decor.

Architectural elements work particularly well with ceilings in large rooms, adding interest and eliminating the often monotonous look of the flat, white surface overhead. Coffers or boxed beams add dimension and work well in rooms with high ceilings. If you are remodeling an older home, boxed beams can hide new electrical wiring, conduits or heating and air ductwork. The spaces between the beams provide yet another opportunity to add interest to your bedroom, perhaps with colored glass pieces arranged in a unique design. Or you can install coffers in geometric shapes other than rectangles. Paint the coffers or leave the wood bare depending on your personal preference and the decor of your room.

Lighting is another important part of ceiling design. If you install a tray ceiling, lighting can be a hidden element. You can also place lighting behind a gossamer canopy for a dreamy effect.