The 5th Wall: Wallpaper On The Ceiling
Personal tastes in interior decor can be diverse, especially when it comes to wallpaper. Some prefer to cover every wall, while others might use wallpaper only for an accent wall or above wainscoting. But one space often left untouched is the ceiling – the so-called “fifth wall.” Using wallpaper on the ceiling can add an unexpected touch to any room. Here are some creative ceiling wallpaper ideas and tips for installation to make the most of this often-overlooked area.
Tips for Applying Ceiling Wallpaper
For best results, hang wallpaper in line with the room’s primary light source to avoid shadows that could distort the pattern. Always begin with the focal point in the room so that this area highlights the design at its best. Removing light fixtures and using a pencil and level (or a laser level if possible) will help keep the first drop straight.
Ceiling Wallpaper Inspirations
In the picture above, the Hommeboys didn’t want to obscure the paint and texture on the walls. The ceiling, however, was a perfect spot to add some interest. They added the Cranes Wallpaper, which matched well the green, mustard and all the warm, earthy tones in the room. It adds a lovely dose of luxury to the space.
Alieta Casey loves to beautiful spaces in her home and share them on Instagram. Her powder room boasted her “signature colour” using pink and blush tones with the help of the Bush Beauty Wallpaper. Her bold choice didn’t end with the surrounding four walls. She continued the glamour across the ceiling to create a stunning environment to wow her guests.
Fariha Nasir add some fun to her boy’s bedroom space. She knew that a lively tropical jungle theme would be just the thing to spark her son’s imagination. She used the Kingdom Palm Wallpaper on the ceiling so that from the moment her little boy open’s his eyes, he’s ready to embark on an adventure each day.
Stephanie Watkins wanted to create a space that ignited her creativity. She found the colourful Hockney design and chose a creative installation technique by installing it on the ceiling. Now as her eyes wander up, deep in thought, digging for that creative nugget, she receive inspiration from above.
North Carolina-based interior designer, Lori Shaw had a client who loves maximalism. There is so much pattern and colour through the room that it seemed negligent to have a plain ceiling. The Garden Bloom added some rich blues and delicate pinks making the dining room a truly festive environment.
@MochaGirlPlace thought the Gardenia Wallpaper would be perfect to add a bit of life to her laundry room with its bold colourful birds. She used the green background from the wallpaper brought it down her walls to make it feel cohesive.
Impeccable Nest, a mother and daughter design team did something unconventional with their wallpaper installation. They used elements of the Ornithology wallpaper design and extended them up onto the ceiling and out of the wallpaper. Using the wastage from their installation, they cut out birds, branches and leaves to continue to the design on the ceiling creating an almost 3 dimensional look.
Megan, is a Milton & King customer who loved the result of her son’s bedroom so much that she just had to share it. She installed the Barre Reverse wallpaper on the ceiling adding a dose of colour, pattern and intrigue to the room. She also felt like the design of this Shibori wallpaper helped to lengthen the feel of the room.
Popular Ceiling Wallpaper Ideas
Common choices include florals, stripes, and bird motifs, adding character and dimension.
Whether you’re looking to paper the whole room or just the ceiling, consider giving this overlooked area a bit of flair for a truly captivating space.
