Definitions of 5 Popular Ceiling Types
By Penny on Aug 28, 2014
Most first-time homebuyers using Newinhomes.com might not be brushed up on the ceiling lingo. With so many options available, it’s even difficult for us to keep up! In order to simplify it for you, here’s a list of popular ceiling types used frequently in Greater Toronto Area homes.
California
This drywall-esque finishing style is characterized by its simple, flat finish (from an architectural perspective). Though the finish of the ceiling can vary in terms of texture, ‘California’ specifies the standard, flat, wall-like look of the ceiling. Most homes these days offer this as a standard finish because it is clean, modern and accommodating to different decorating styles. California ceilings can be embellished with added textures (ie: swirls, sand, palm, brush stroke, orange peel, comb and so forth).
Vaulted
Vaulted ceilings are a little more difficult to come across because they rely on the architectural structure of the home itself. Though in many cases they seem to frame the roof, they can also slope off to one side instead of the centre of the room. With the capacity to add so much character to a home, vaulted ceilings are a great way to visually enlarge a room. Great in small or large spaces, this type of ceiling is trending right now in loft spaces. The best part is that you can texturize these ceilings too!
Coffered
A Newinhomes.com favourite, coffered ceilings have the capacity to completely transform the average room into one with personalized style and character. Typically, coffered ceilings are identifiable by cell-like square frames, but there are different types as well that employ different shapes and colours for frames. Depending on the room you’re working with and the style you wish to achieve, cells can be painted bold colours and outlined with light colour frames that give the room attitude without necessarily taking away from the size by visually closing it in. Light fixtures in particular are emphasized with this style, whether you choose classic pot lights or other styles.
Tray
Similar to coffered ceilings, a tray ceiling is just one large frame. The trim around the main ceiling can vary in size, but it creates a frame effect, somewhat staging the room, highlighting the centre (whether it’s a dining room table or bed in a bedroom). Trims can also differ in finish, some can exude luxury with ornate details, others plain, some dramatic with sharp or deep cuts or subtle with soft, short curves.
Cathedral
In close resemblance to vaulted ceiling, cathedral ceilings also meet at a peak that seems to follow a triangular roof. Distinguished by the way the ceiling seems to frame the roof of the home, with the two sides of the ceiling reaching a triangular point at the peak. These ceilings can rise above more than one floor and often show the “bones” of the ceiling (the supporting beams). Just like vaulted ceilings, cathedral ceilings can be enhanced by texturizing, but as their name gives away, the style originates from antique cathedrals, so depending on whether you’re aiming to mimic that exact style or contemporize it, you may have reservations about adding decorative panels or cells.
We hope these definitions help you while browsing through all the new home brochures you’ve picked up recently!
