Decorating Ideas for a Finished Attic With Slanted Ceilings

Paint

• Select a light or neutral shade of paint and apply it over the walls of the attic to create a monochromatic theme. Light colors reduce the appearance of slopes in the room and make the space appear bigger. Alternatively, paint the tallest wall a bold color so it stands out, and apply a light, complementing shade for the others to create a cohesive style. If desired, paint stripes over the walls of the attic to draw the eye upward and create the illusion of height. Paint the ceiling a lighter color to offset the effect of the main wall.

Furniture

• Select sleek, low-profile pieces for the finished attic to keep it from appearing overcrowded or cluttered. For instance, if using the attic as a spare bedroom, position the bed against the shortest wall, with its headboard under the slope. Place the dresser or shelving unit against the opposite wall, and a small seating arrangement against a side wall. If the attic serves as a mini-living room, position the entertainment center against the shortest wall and the seating arrangement against the opposite wall. Place long, narrow shelving units against a corner of the attic or near the window to provide storage without blocking the wall. The placement of furniture should not block the passage to the door.

Window Treatments

• An attic is often darker than other rooms in a house because of its small windows. However, with supplemental lighting and clever window treatments, you can illuminate the space effectively to create the illusion of more space. Mount curtain rods at ceiling height and hang long panels of lightweight curtains that collect at the floor. Use drapes in solid colors that complement the walls to create a feeling of continuity. Alternatively, use curtains with vertical stripes to draw the eye upward, making the slanting ceiling appear higher than it is.

Accessories

• Careful selection and placement of accessories binds the different elements of the attic together. Long panels or vertical frames secured to the wall create the illusion of height. Mounting a mirror above the bed adds depth to the attic and makes the space appear larger than it is. Mount small wall sconces on the walls to reflect light upward, and mount a vertical arrangement of artwork on a wall to add length. Place a tall potted plant in a corner of the room for natural color and beauty.