I don’t ever walk into a room and think, “Oh my, that ceiling is just to die for.” I am being honest. It is not on the forefront of my mind. Chances are I am more apt to notice the wallpaper, fabric choices, and prominent texture that exists in a space. The paint color of the ceiling tends to be an after thought, a red-headed step child of design decision making. While it may seem distant, it is part of the family and is very much a crucial element of a room’s overall atmosphere.

Today, I am focusing on painted ceilings that are set apart from the traditional off-white application. I want to examine painted ceilings that stand-out and make the room come alive in a way that tradition would not allow. A pop of color from above can often be the cherry on top of a perfect room.

Jeffery Bilhuber uses a sherbet lacquered orange in this den featured in Elle Decor.

A pop of purple and potted boxwoods on this colorful painted porch by Amanda Nisbet.

A matted powder blue brings a sophistication to this room. Photo source: Veranda

Gold leaf on the ceiling gives this kitchen by Michael S. Smith a polished look. Photo source: AD

Brian McCarthy adds a classic and modern edge to this manhattan living room featured in Veranda.

An alternative to painting the ceiling a different color, is painting the ceiling the same color as the walls. It can add a wonderful jewel-box effect. Design by Ken Fulk in House Beautiful.

A golden yellow ceiling adds warmth and contrast to this classically contrived hallway. Photo source: Elle Decor

A raised ceiling of mediterranean blue adds a vivid pop of color in this white kitchen. Photo source: House Beautiful 

A heavily grayed-blue ceiling accents the neutral living area. Photo source: Pinterest

A different shade of blue in the New York study of John Robshaw creates a color blocking effect between the ceiling and the walls. Photo source: Elle Decor

Nate Berkus and Anne Coyle add a contrasting light blue ceiling to the high-gloss Benjamin Moore “Off Black” walls in this fabulous den. For more on the gallery wall. Photo source: Elle Decor

A ceiling with contrasting play and intricate detail. Photo source: Elle Decor

A unique painted hallway in this Florida home features a layered blue ceiling that provides a swimming pool effect. Doesn’t it look like a water’s reflection? Photo source: Veranda

So many shades of gray in this sleek bedroom full of texture. I love how the smooth glossy ceiling contrasts with the textured papered walls.  Photo source: AD