These days, high ceilings are not an interior problem, but rather a plus. After all, you can always create several levels of drywall without losing the space necessary for comfort.
Such lighting, for example, in the bedroom, creates a romantic mood that does not leave and does not let go in the morning.
Positive aspects of two-level ceilings:
- hides all the flaws in the ceiling that don’t even need to be corrected
- such little things as pipes, cables or something else that is not aesthetically pleasing will remain behind the drywall
- savings on dismantling work and replacing parts of the ceiling
- additional visual zones are created
- The height of the room changes, which creates a unique atmosphere.
The ceiling can serve as lighting or as a platform for a chandelier, pendants and all other ceiling attributes.
But don’t forget about hidden diode lamps. This way you won’t lose the effect of the ceiling flying, it seems to float with the help of light, because all the fastenings are hidden.
Quirky or unique, it's up to you. But among all these ceilings there are truly design masterpieces that can be divided into:
- wavy ceilings
- ceilings in the form of geometric shapes
- fantastic ceilings
- stepped ceilings
- ceiling dome
- ceiling with molding
- ceiling in stucco style.
The popularity of ceilings has grown very quickly. The only thing she lacked was material available in supermarkets.
But as soon as the material became affordable, ceilings became an integral part of the modern interior, even in private homes.
Nowadays, a plasterboard ceiling can even be made in 3D style. It looks unique and is very surprising, if, of course, you put in enough effort and imagination.
Features of suspended ceilings
The photo of a two-level ceiling in the bedroom shows the interior of the room, noticeably transformed thanks to the new stretch ceiling. This design decision brought new colors to the familiar style.
Time to figure out what this design is. This is a metal or plastic structure that is located under the main ceiling and secures the canvas.
The canvas can also be different - light plastic or consisting of polyester threads.
Placement nuances
When placing a bedroom under the ceiling, the main attention should be paid to comfort and safety. The most important thing is height. Consider the height of the people living in the room: it is important to move under the bed without bending down, and to sit on the bed itself without touching the ceiling with your head. For a comfortable life for adults, it is recommended to leave at least a meter of space from the mattress to the ceiling. For a children's bed, this distance can be reduced. If the ceiling is low, it is better to place a closet under the bed.
Be sure to additionally secure the bed with legs to the wall or ceiling to prevent it from swaying. For safety, the bed should have a reliable bumper on the side. The crossbar at the headboard adds convenience - this way you can read in bed, but the side at the feet is completely optional.
The staircase is one of the most important elements. Choose one that is comfortable, even if it takes up a little more space. And do not forget about the orthopedic properties of the mattress, especially if it is placed on a flat surface without a special base. You can read about this in the article “Bed vs mattress on the floor.”
And just a note: a small shelf and a lamp by the bed won’t hurt, even if it’s under the ceiling.
Advantages of a two-level ceiling
There is no need to prepare the main ceiling before you install the tension ceiling. Also, stretch ceilings are safe for humans, reliable, and light in weight. Such ceilings last a very long time, and therefore their installation will be quite profitable.
An important advantage is the opportunity to experiment with decor.
You can choose any paintings or decorations that will immerse your room in a magical atmosphere. This will ensure coziness and a comfortable stay in the room.
What to consider when designing a two-level suspended ceiling
Since the suspended ceiling is designed differently for each room and interior, it is necessary to create a design project before installing it. When designing, take into account the following:
- Ceiling height. The frame on which the finishing will be attached will take up to 10 cm of useful volume, so in small rooms it is recommended to use light colors of the canvas. And to visually enlarge the room, it is recommended to make one of the tiers oval.
- Lighting. To install lamps, a gap between the main ceiling and the suspended ceiling is required, equal to the lamp leg. This will also lead to a “lower” height. By the time the ceiling structure is installed, all power points must be provided, as well as the installation locations for lamps and spots.
- Reflectivity. If the design intends to install a hidden lighting box around the perimeter of the room, then glossy surfaces are undesirable, because all light-emitting communications will be reflected in them. It is better to use matte canvases to decorate a 2-level stretch ceiling.
Considering these nuances, you can transform your home with a well-designed ceiling design.
What to pay attention to
The canvas used for this design is quite large and can easily be damaged by sharp objects, so working with a suspended ceiling requires the help of a qualified specialist.
Also, the material is quite expensive; you will need to select lighting sources that will not harm the suspended ceiling.
Whitewash
This is the traditional and budget method that many families still use. It also has disadvantages and advantages.
Pros of whitewashing
- This is an affordable and budget method that does not require large financial costs.
- The method is quite easy to implement without recourse to the help of specialists.
- You can whitewash the ceiling in a relatively short period of time.
Cons of whitewashing
Like other options, this method has some significant disadvantages, among them we highlight the following:
This method cannot be called modern; it does not give a feeling of luxury to the room. Of course, for some styles this option will be suitable and will look quite presentable, but still, for a modern style this approach cannot be called relevant;
Types of suspended ceilings
The canvas can be shiny, matte, or satin. Each of these types is individual; you will need to take into account some nuances to make your choice.
Glossy ceiling
The most expensive materials. An ideal option if you need to visually expand the room and also increase the ceiling height. And all thanks to the shiny surface that reflects light.
Therefore, do not choose light sources with a large diameter - in this case, partial shade may form on the ceiling.
Thanks to the use of a glossy ceiling, you can create the most fantastic design images in the interior. An example of this is the starry sky on the ceiling.
Features and types of designs
You can diversify a laconic interior with a complex form of suspended ceiling. Suspended plasterboard structures, in addition to all the above qualities, allow you to hide uneven ceilings, its structural elements, communications in the form of pipes, electrical wiring, and other technical equipment, as well as to integrate lighting fixtures of any modification. This allows you to create functional multi-level lighting.
Using polyurethane moldings you can create a coffered ceiling
The design of the suspended ceiling provides noise and heat insulation, which can be “strengthened” by placing insulating material inside. In addition, suspended structures can be actively used to zone a room and create accents.
Using the shape of a suspended ceiling, you can visually correct the shortcomings of the planning solution in the room - make it more compact, or vice versa - visually give it volume, “raise” the height of the walls, despite the fact that the structure “eats” at least 10 cm.
By painting part of the ceiling to match the color of the decor, you can combine the interior into one whole.
Isolation of individual zones using a suspended structure
The versatility of plasterboard hanging systems lies in the fact that they can be used in rooms of any style. Even the simplest single-level plasterboard ceiling can be transformed thanks to additional decor - polyurethane moldings to create a classic style, or false beams for a country interior.
Mirror and chrome inserts together with LED lighting will complement the interior in high-tech style.
Plasterboard ceiling decor in a luxurious living room
There are different types of plasterboard ceiling structures:
| A false ceiling made of plasterboard is appropriate in low rooms. As mentioned earlier, filing the ceiling allows you to quickly prepare it for finishing. In this case, the plasterboard sheets are attached to a lathing made of wooden beams with a cross-section of 30x50 mm, fixed directly to the ceiling using anchor nails. As a result, the room loses height by the thickness of the timber and plasterboard; | Hemmed construction |
| The single-level suspended structure is mounted on a metal frame. The suspensions are attached to the ceiling with anchor screws, and then a frame is formed from metal profiles. This design allows you to build in spotlights and hide communications. A single-level ceiling turns out to be perfectly flat and can be finished in any way - painted, covered with wallpaper and tiles, plastered; | Suspended single-level design |
| A multi-level design is more complex, and the number of tiers depends on the area of the room. The first tier is made as for a single-level ceiling. Then the electrical cables for lighting are laid and removed. After this, a frame is formed for the next tier, securing it to the first. You can also go in the opposite direction. Multi-level designs are varied in their design. When creating them, it is possible to combine colors and textures, as well as various light sources. It is with the help of a multi-level ceiling that you can create effective zoning of a room; | Complex multi-level design |
| A ceiling with a niche for lighting can be used in a room of low height. In this case, a plasterboard structure with built-in lighting is mounted around the perimeter of the room, and the internal space of the ceiling remains unchanged. The result is an optical illusion of surface depth, enhanced by the LED lighting hidden in the niche; | Niche in a suspended structure |
| Creating a three-dimensional figure from plasterboard on the ceiling allows you to get an original interior design. To do this, you can mount the first tier using a hanging or hemming method, and then begin making the figure itself. Using a stencil, the contours of the future figure are marked on the surface of the first level, along which the frame is built. The outline of a pattern or figure is applied to the reverse side of the plasterboard sheet, cut out and secured to the frame. If it is necessary to create a curved figure, the plasterboard sheet is moistened, treated with a needle roller and only then bent. | Volumetric figure made of plasterboard on the ceiling |
Matte ceiling texture
A calm and serene environment is guaranteed if you choose a matte stretch ceiling.
- The peculiarity of this design is the use of muted shades.
- You are free to choose the design of the lighting sources; in any case, you will get a delicate style.
- In terms of cost, a matte ceiling is more budget-friendly than a glossy one.
- In a bedroom with such a ceiling, an atmosphere of peace and tranquility will be created, which will be perfect for relaxation.
Photographic ceiling
This type of stretch ceiling is called photographic, because the design is applied with special odorless paints. The result will be a very elegant and sophisticated ceiling.
You can order any image, these can also be photographs that are dear to you.
Fabric ceiling
Such ceilings are usually expensive, because the material is quite durable fabric. The fabric looks like silk, suede or velvet.
Commonly used colors:
- Tender,
- Light,
- Pastel.
Film ceiling
Reasonable price, moisture resistance. The material is transparent plastic. During installation, high temperatures are used to create a flat surface.
Another advantage is the variety of colors available. The main disadvantage is fragility; it can be damaged under the influence of a sharp surface or high temperature.
Take this into account when choosing lighting sources - chandeliers should not have sharp edges.
Plasterboard ceiling
A two-level ceiling in a bedroom made of plasterboard will perfectly level the surface of the ceiling. You can also make it yourself.
There are several ceiling systems.
- The first assumes a flat ceiling surface, while the chandeliers are located in the base sheathing.
- The second type consists of two tiers, the first is the main one, followed by a lighter and smaller one.
- The third system is characterized by the reverse arrangement.
- Between the main elements of the frame, which belongs to the second level, a tier is installed, which is the first.
Types of plasterboard ceilings
Plasterboard ceilings in the bedroom can be divided into three main types, based on the number of levels in the structure.
Single-level
A one-level plasterboard ceiling, despite its seeming traditionality, in some cases, can be the optimal solution for decorating a bedroom, for example:
- this type is ideal for the interior of a recreation room in small-sized apartments, for example, such as Khrushchev, since they have low ceilings and a small bedroom of no more than 10-15 square meters. m.;
- it is also advisable to make the ceiling of a bedroom for a child or teenager on one level, without visually complicating the design;
- if the bedroom is decorated in high-tech or minimalist styles, which involve simple forms;
- The attic of a country house, where the bedroom is usually located, can also be effectively decorated using a single-level plasterboard ceiling design.
Making single-level gypsum board ceilings is not difficult and can be done with your own hands.
Decoration of a single-level ceiling can be:
- drawings or patterns;
- plaster stucco;
- beautiful spot-mounted spotlights or chandeliers;
- attractive paint color.
Two-level
Suspended ceilings, made in two levels, are the most successful choice for decorating a rest room, since they combine minimal requirements for the room and relative ease of installation.
Among the advantages of suspended plasterboard ceilings of this type, the following points can be highlighted:
- expand the possibilities for organizing the interior space of a room by identifying separate zones with different heights, lighting and decor;
- by choosing the shape and color, two-level plasterboard ceilings make it possible to give the bedroom more volume;
- two-level structures allow you to organize complex lighting, harmoniously combining local illumination of individual zones with a general light circuit, and plasterboard ceilings with lighting and an installed chandelier also look good;
- the use of smooth lines to create levels on the ceiling can give the bedroom sophistication and uniqueness.
- the second level of the plasterboard ceiling can also be designed in a wave, circle, or in the shape of a flower.
Therefore, when planning the interior of a recreation room, a two-level plasterboard ceiling can be an ideal way to bring your own ideas to life.
Basically, the second level of the plasterboard ceiling is needed for installing lighting fixtures
Multi-level
An interior that includes multi-level plasterboard ceilings can become a real creative masterpiece, however, only professional builders can implement it.
This type of ceiling design expands the possibilities of organizing space, zoning and combining different types of decor.
To finish individual levels, stretch ceilings with a pattern or glossy coating are often used, which visually creates additional volume. And more and more often a combined plasterboard and suspended ceiling began to be used.
Thoughtful lighting located at different levels can transform a relaxation room depending on the mood of the owner.
Based on these types of ceilings, decorating your own relaxation room will be an exciting and creative process.
Color solutions
What should you pay attention to when choosing a color scheme? After all, this will determine your mood and well-being. If you want to relieve tension, decorate the ceiling in soft green or beige tones.
- Shades such as green, blue and blue will perfectly lift your spirits. They will create an atmosphere of freshness and coolness.
- The soft orange color will give you a positive mood and give you a lot of energy.
- Yellow is the color of sun and joy and will make your room positive.
- The soft blue color will have a beneficial effect on the nervous system.
- Be careful with the color purple - it can reduce your performance.
- Brown shades are also an excellent choice - they will give warmth and comfort, and also set a calm mood.
- Avoid colors such as grey, black and red - they can cause anxiety and agitation of the nervous system.
In the interior, absolutely any detail can be designed so that it corresponds to modern design trends, and also gives a special mood to the entire room.
The ceiling is no exception. Properly selected materials and colors can complement and even change the look of the room.
How to choose?
The choice of model depends on the preferences of the owner, as well as on the functionality of the room.
Modern trends in interior fashion make it possible to decorate small studio apartments as effectively as possible with the help of two-level ceilings. They allow you to divide the total area into several different zones
For the bedroom it is necessary to create a feeling of relaxation, so the shades should be calm, slightly muted, soft. The abundance of contrasts is excluded. Designers recommend the following photo printing options: “starry sky”, various cosmic options, the effect of flowing silk fabric, soft floral or geometric motifs. Instead of a night light, it is suggested to consider the option of using built-in lamps that allow you to adjust the light intensity. Additional flickering LEDs will look impressive and calming.
Children's rooms and play areas are especially positive. They cannot be decorated in dark colors. Designers recommend using bright drawings, photo printing, decorative elements and multi-colored lighting. Ceilings in the form of the sky with clouds, flying birds, and stars are relevant.
In offices and libraries, photos with maps on one of the ceiling levels look great. Simple geometric shapes, numbers or letters are appropriate for drawings. The color scheme should not distract from the work. Beige-brown or white-blue combinations are a win-win option. Clear backlight lines will help you concentrate.
In the kitchen, it is most often suggested to use color contrasts, but using no more than three shades. Multi-tiered structures will delimit the space, and skillful lighting will enhance the effect. Usually the ceiling above the work area is made of one color, and the remaining part and walls of a different shade. It is better to use PVC film, since it is more stable when removing various types of contaminants.
In the bathroom, a water theme, such as sea water, is naturally appropriate. A combination of two or three shades without patterns is possible. The levels should not have an excessively large spread between each other. Since a chandelier in a bathroom looks bulky, designers suggest using flat lighting fixtures instead of the main source or installing built-in lighting.
If you decide to use a ceiling with photo printing for the hallway, then it is better to limit yourself to a partial print. This way it won't seem overloaded. When finishing the ceiling in a small dark corridor, it is better to give preference to light colors. Options with low walls do not imply the installation of a two-level tension fabric.
In a private cottage, it is not uncommon to have a staircase to the second floor. The ceiling above the staircase space is usually complex, but the plasterboard frame allows the installation of double structures in this case.
The living room and dining room are the ideal place to implement unusual design solutions. Two tiers will look good with the right choice of lighting and colors. If the lamps are placed on the outside of the second level, the ceiling will become more voluminous. If illuminated from the inside, it will literally float above the floor. And if you complement the interior with a photo print on the tension part, the ceiling will look even more interesting. When using colored ceiling coverings, you should carefully choose the shade of the backlight, since some combinations tend to distort the visual perception of color.
An attic in a private house, as a rule, is a challenge for designers, since it is located under the roof and has complex wall configurations. The ceiling is also no exception, so experts advise using frame structures to install suspended ceilings.
