By Olivia Lidbury Interiors 29.11.2022

11 Reasons to Consider a 'Fifth Wall' Makeover

Painting your ceiling can completely transform your space.

Life’s too short to stare at apologetically blank ceilings. Perhaps you’ve run out of wall space to play with, or noticed that on Instagram, the often overlooked ‘fifth wall’ is finally getting the love it deserves, with riotous wallpapers and punchy colour injections. Think of it as the new feature or accent wall.

In a bedroom, the ceiling is the first thing you see - so why not make it an escapist scene of billowing clouds, or an uplifting moment to rouse your spirits? In a living area, a splash of paint can cocoon and soften a space (and detract from a design feature you’re not so hot about, like tired flooring). Curious? We’ve rounded up some of the best ceiling makeover inspiration for you. Rollers at the ready...

1. Get the gloss

Wipeable matt paint is reliable, but a contrasting hi-sheen finish for the ceiling - like a gloss - will bounce the light around to dazzling effect. Light a few candles and side lamps for a den-like opulence come night-time.

2. Think tonally...

So you’ve found the perfect shade of mustard/ teal/ blush for your walls, why not profess your love a step further? Pick a shade further along on the colour chart and continue the theme up above (matching tablecloth and accessories optional).

3. …or contrastingly

Consult a colour wheel and you’ll discover that blue loves orange, purple pairs with yellow and green hearts pink. These complementary schemes sound bold, but they work.

4. Bring in some texture

Add character to an extension or new-build with decorative tin or copper tiles. Historically, these were used in North America as an affordable alternative to the ornate plasterwork mouldings that were popular in Europe. Simply stick and paint, or leave bare for a luxe sheen.

5. Drench it

Found a colour you adore? Don’t stop at the point where the walls meet the ceiling or picture rail - carry on for a dramatic effect known as ‘colour drenching’, where any woodwork such as window frames and skirting boards gets the colour treatment, too.

6. Go wooden

Reach for a hammer and nails and emulate the mid-century look with wood panelling. Loaded with natural detail and easy to pair with colour statements elsewhere around the room, it’s a classic move you won’t regret making.

7. Continue the theme

Keen for a ‘wow’ ceiling but not sure where to begin? Find a printed wallpaper then pick a colour from its scheme and use that around the walls for a foolproof combination.

8. Make a scene

Look closely and you’ll see this ceiling is adorned with the aforementioned blowing clouds. Impactful without being shouty, this detail also cuts back on the amount of wallpaper needed, making it a more budget-friendly move.

9. Bits are a hit

Here’s a case for just doing a slither of a wall and ceiling in a bold shade. A steady hand and reliable masking tape will be required.

10. If in doubt, always go for stripes

As with fashion, this timeless pattern won’t let you down. It works with florals as well as more contemporary accents. You can go diagonally, tent-like or maze-like. Your decorator won’t love you for it, but the results will be so mesmerising.

11. Surprise!

A metallic ceiling looks far more elegant than it sounds. And you don’t have to go matchy-matchy with the rest of the room’s decor, just make sure there are equally rich elements in situ - this burgundy fireplace being one of them.