Tray ceilings, also known as recessed ceilings, are called that because their shape resembles an inverted tray – extending from the center like the sides of a tray and typically having a flat, even surface.
Tray ceilings usually come with crown molding on both the upper and lower edges, which emphasizes their shape and creates a high-end look. They can be used in any room in the home, however they are most commonly seen in bedrooms and dining rooms.
Tray ceilings can be used to create a feeling of grandeur and to make a room look larger by adding visual height. They also make a great canvas for creative designs, using paint, wallpaper, and accents to add texture, interest, and contrast.
What does tray ceiling mean?
A tray ceiling is a type of architectural feature in a room that has the ceiling elevated and contoured in the center, somewhat resembling a tray. It is most often used in the dining room or the master bedroom of a house, but can also be used in other rooms.
The ceiling is suspended just a few inches higher than other parts of the room, and sometimes has a recessed lighting feature or a ceiling fan installed in the center of the tray. It is important to note that the ceiling is usually curved (not flat), to give the room a softer and more luxurious appearance.
What is the difference between a tray ceiling and a vaulted ceiling?
The primary difference between a tray ceiling and a vaulted ceiling is in the overall design and shape of the ceiling. A tray ceiling is a ceiling that features a flat, rectangular shape with the middle of the ceiling raised slightly higher than the edges.
This raised section can feature different detailing, such as a lighting fixture or a fan, and the sides can feature recessed lighting or molding. A vaulted ceiling on the other hand, is a ceiling that ascends from two sides of the wall in an “arched” or angled manner.
Vaulted ceilings are often seen in large gathering areas such as great rooms, and they provide more height than a tray ceiling, creating a sense of openness and spaciousness. Vaulted ceiling may feature windows or skylights, allowing natural lighting to enter the space, and they can be open, or there can be a finished attic style vault with small beams.
Is tray ceiling outdated?
No, tray ceilings are not outdated. In fact, they are still popular when it comes to upgrading homes and creating dramatic ceilings. Tray ceilings are versatile and can work in different styles, such as modern, traditional, and glamorous.
They can be used to add height and character to any room, especially master bedrooms and common areas. With a few paint touches and other decorations, a tray ceiling can become an eye-catching focal point.
Depending on personal tastes, tray ceilings can also be painted in bold shades or soft pastels to create harmony with other elements of the home. Some of today’s most popular options are coffered and beadboard tray ceilings, which use trim and panels to create depth.
Tray ceilings are also perfect for homes that have lower ceilings, since they make the ceilings look higher. Additionally, tray ceilings can be installed in rooms of different sizes, and with the help of a skilled contractor, you can make sure that the job is done right.
Ultimately, tray ceilings are far from outdated, and with the right combination of accents, they can be very stylish.
Do tray ceilings add value?
Tray ceilings do have the potential to add value to a home. They can offer an attractive aesthetic that can give rooms in a house an upscale feel, making the space appear larger than it actually is. This can be especially desirable in smaller homes where a dramatic look can have a big impact.
Tray ceilings can create an interesting focal point in a room and make the ceiling appear higher. The extra cost of an installed tray ceiling can be offset by the added value to the home, and provides a great return on investment when it comes to the resale value of a home.
Additionally, there are even tray ceilings with integrated lighting that can make a room appear even more spacious, as well as beautiful.
What is the opposite of a tray ceiling?
The opposite of a tray ceiling is a stepped ceiling. A stepped ceiling is constructed with a flat surface and each layer is slightly lower in height than the one above it. This gives the appearance of steps or “stair-stepping” down from the highest point of the ceiling.
In contrast to a tray ceiling, a stepped ceiling does not have a flat valance that protrudes downward from the ceiling in the center. Instead, each layer has the same shape, but is slightly lower in height to create the illusion of steps.
Should tray ceiling be lighter or darker than walls?
The decision to make a tray ceiling lighter or darker than the walls ultimately depends on the overall aesthetic look and feel desired for the space. Many design experts suggest opting for a lighter shade on the ceiling if the tray ceiling is predominantly in a main living space to keep the area feeling light and open.
For a room with lower ceilings, or one that requires a cozy atmosphere, a darker shade of paint on the tray ceiling will help to add depth and warmth to the room. Additionally, the choice of whether to make the ceiling darker or lighter will depend on the surrounding wall color.
If the walls are pale, then a darker ceiling could be used to create contrast, whereas a darker wall might call for a lighter shade on the ceiling for balance. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference, so it’s important to consider all the factors before making a choice.
How far from the wall should a tray ceiling be?
When installing a tray ceiling, the distance from the wall to the edge of the tray should depend on the amount of visual impact desired in the room. For a more dramatic, focal point, a greater distance is recommended.
Generally, the distance should range from 12” to as far as 30” from the wall. The depth of the tray itself should also be taken into account – a deeper tray should be installed further away from the wall for a more pronounced effect.
Additionally, it may be wise to plan for the use of recessed lighting in the ceiling and allow for adequate space for those fixtures. Lastly, the amount of wall-space visible and the size of the ceiling should be taken into consideration.
For smaller spaces, a shorter distance may be more appropriate to provide a higher level of visual impact.
What are boxed ceilings called?
Boxed ceilings, also called coffered ceilings, are a type of ceiling featuring recessed panels and framing, similar to a tiled floor. This design serves to create a more interesting and sophisticated look to a ceiling.
The panels are formed using wooden beams and moldings, which are then boxed in and can be finished in any number of materials to create a unique look for the ceiling. Unlike traditional flat ceilings, the placement of the panels creates visual interest and dimension to give a space a sense of luxury and elegance.
Boxed ceilings are often seen in areas such as formal sitting rooms and formal dining rooms, but can be found in more casual settings as well.