Effects of Carved Wood Paneling on Decorative Ceiling Plaster

Decorative Plaster

• Decorative plaster ceilings are ceilings that have been molded in a relief-style sculptural design. This type of decor has an aristocratic appearance reminiscent of old mansions, rich dining halls and 19th century Victorian architecture. Decorative plaster isn't usually found in ordinary family dwellings, but it is found in ornate public buildings and homes for the wealthy. Sometimes it is painted, or partially painted, while other times it is left white.

Aesthetic Effects

• The combination of wood paneling on a ceiling, side by side with plaster molding, can produce an interesting effect if correctly executed. Since wood paneling is often square, try alternating the wooden squares with plaster squares equal in size. Cover your ceiling with these two alternating moldings in a checkerboard style. Repeat the same design in all wood paneling, and the same design in all plaster molding. This will work best in a room that has been decorated in traditional decor, with wooden furniture and rich fabrics. Because this will make your ceiling visually busy, this should only be done in a room with very tall ceilings. A design of this nature will only make a low-ceiling room seem even lower.

Installation

• Wood paneling can only be properly installed on a flat surface, so you will only be able to install the wood paneling beside the plaster moldings, not on top of it. This means that the decorative part of the plaster should not be affected by your wood paneling installation. Install the wood paneling on any flat part of the molded ceiling, which should help you to avoid chipping the molded installation. Wooden paneling must be secured to the ceiling by nailing it into the ceiling joists.

Lightweight Wood Paneling

• Use a lightweight mineral fiber plank instead of solid wood for an easier installation. This will prevent you from damaging or cracking the plaster with heavy wood paneling. These planks can be attached to a plaster ceiling with adhesive and staples.

Colors

• If you plan to paint your decorative plaster, pick colors that will match with the wooden paneling. Warm colored wood will match well with warm colored paint, while cooler, grayer wood will match well with cool paint colors. Try to match the paint and the wood on the ceiling to the colors decorating the room down below.