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Low Ceiling Design Problems

Few design problems are as frustrating as rooms with low ceilings. It's not an easy fix and truly the only way other than rebuilding is to fool the eye and make the room appear to have higher ceilings. From oppressively confining to dark and dreary -- low ceilings can be a design dilemma.
  1. Decor with Stripes

    • Striped wallpaper can be problematic if the stripes run horizontally. This only encourages a low level view and draws the eye across rather than up.

    Furniture Size

    • You should avoid large furniture in low ceilinged rooms. Armoires and high-backed chairs only emphasis what you are trying to hide --- the same goes for large furniture upholstered in patterned fabric which creates a busy look in a closed-in area.

    Decorative Finishes

    • Crown molding is often a beautiful and sophisticated addition, however with low ceilings it only adds to the design problem. You should only use very thin crown molding.

    Lighting Options

    • Low ceilings should not have down-facing lighting which will make this space feel closed in. Avoid recessed and pendant lights.