What Is Tray Ceiling? What Is The Benefit Of A Tray Ceiling?
What Is Tray Ceiling?
A tray ceiling, also known as an inverted or recessed ceiling, has a raised center section that is several inches or feet higher than the edges of the room. This design can add a decorative touch by using different colored paint or trim.
Hidden tube lighting around the perimeter, with dimming options, can add a cozy ambiance.
This type of ceiling is best suited for large rooms with high ceilings to add depth and create a focal point, like a hanging chandelier, pendant light, or ceiling fan. The center section is also ideal for a painted ceiling mural of clouds, stars, or any desired scene.
What Is The Benefit Of A Tray Ceiling?
Tray or step ceiling adds a unique look to any room in the home, making it feel luxurious and elegant. They are commonly found in master bedrooms.
Despite the average size of a master bedroom, kitchen or living room being around 300 sq. ft., step and tray ceilings make it appear larger and more spacious.
Creating a step ceiling is a cost-effective way to enhance the perceived height and size of a room, whereas raising the ceiling may not be possible or expensive.
Step and tray ceilings provide options for unique lighting setups, like recessed lights, accent lights, or LED strips, to alter the ambiance of the room.
Is Tray Ceiling Outdated?
No, tray ceiling is not outdated, on the contrary it remain stylish with the right design sense to match the room’s architecture.
According to Blackburn, the sleek design of tray ceilings is popular in modern homes as it enhances the room’s appearance by creating an illusion of height and depth, leading to a luxurious and grand feel.
How To Install A Tray Ceiling?
Installing a Tray Ceiling:
The process of installing a tray ceiling varies based on whether it’s part of new construction or a remodel.
- New Construction: The builder will install the ceiling during the initial construction, either with stick-framing or roof trusses engineered for the tray ceiling. This should only be done by building professionals.
- Retrofitting: Modifying an existing ceiling for a tray ceiling requires consultation with a structural engineer and obtaining permits. The process may not be feasible structurally.
If height allows, a simpler option is constructing a drop-down frame and covering it with drywall. A handy DIY-er with carpentry skills may be able to handle this.
Faux Tray Ceiling: This can be installed by attaching molding to the ceiling and painting the center a darker color to create a 3D effect.
What Is The Standard Depth Of A Tray Ceiling?
Tray ceilings are characterized by their shape and border, created by adding a lowered edge around the ceiling.
The depth of the recessed area can range from 1 inch to 12 inches, based on the desired look and the height of the ceiling.
