How to Decorate Ledges on High Ceilings

Paint the ledge area. Many times these ceiling ledges are recessed alcoves. Make this area visually dramatic by painting the space with a vibrant color such as midnight blue, Chinese red or semi-gloss black.

Set up lighting on the shelves. If you have an electrical supply nearby, set up back lights. Do this by pushing the lights all the way to the back of the shelves so they're out of sight but can still cast a light behind objects such as sculpture. Track lighting provides you with another choice, which casts light on the objects from above instead of behind.

Create soft decorative displays using silk flowers and leaves. Arrangements that feature draping silk leaves such as ivy or grape vines draw attention to the area.

Provide some color to the ledge by displaying a collection of colorful pottery, sculpture or decorative plates. Choose pieces of varying heights and place the taller ones toward the back.

Set up family photos. Choose candid shots of your kids playing sports, anniversary parties, graduation pictures or playground scenes. Order the pictures so they tell a story visually or choose pictures that center around a common theme such as class photos. This provides visual continuity for the area.

Display a collection. Use this space to show off a collection of fancy wine bottles and wine holders, antique train sets, old photography equipment, a doll collection or shadowboxes full of different kinds of currency.