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Ceiling Medallions
from: SelfHomeImprovement.comHow have you decorated your ceilings?
If you ask that question to a group of average homeowners, you're sure to get some quizzical looks. Many people don't even think about their ceilings when remodeling. They're just "there". They're usually white or off white, often feature that ugly-yet-ubiquitous popcorn texturing and are a complete afterthought.
They shouldn't be. Your ceiling décor can completely change the look of a room. Textures, colors and ornamentation can change the character of a room as much as a new wall color or new carpet.
One popular element in ceiling design is the ceiling medallion. These range in size from a few inches to several feet across. One generally places a medallion in the center of the room. Medallions feature a hole in their center under which the overhead light fixture is placed. They're usually made of easy-to-clean plastic or polyurethane. That gives them an old-fashioned plaster look with greater durability at a lower weight.
Although designers are beginning to produce more contemporary ceiling medallions, most come in Victorian designs or other patterns evocative of eras that featured a more ornate style of design and decorating.
Is a ceiling medallion right for you and your room? It may be if you're trying to create a dramatic effect that draws attention to the room's center and/or to a great light fixture. There are a few potential risks in installing medallions, however. You should be aware of those issues before making a decision.
First, they usually aren't a good match for rooms with low ceilings. They attract attention to the ceiling and they do hang down from it. This can make a room with short walls appear even shorter than it actually is. Most homeowners don't want to produce that kind of cramped effect.
Second, they require a great fixture. Even if you find an ideal medallion, you must couple it with a good fixture. If you're not wiling to purchase an impressive light fixture, you're going to be better off without a medallion.
Third, any time you place something large on a ceiling, it tends to visually draw the walls in. Thus, a room can appear smaller after the installation of a ceiling medallion. If you're dealing with a anything other than a larger room, you'll want to reconsider the installation of a medallion.
Under the right circumstances, a ceiling medallion can create a dramatic and impressive visual effect. When used in less than optimal circumstances, though, it can create a busy feel and a palpable sense of crowing.
Before you purchase a medallion, carefully consider the size of your room, its height and the nature of ceiling fixture that will be attached to it. If all of those factors point toward the addition of a medallion, you'll have a great opportunity to add a whole new dimension to your remodeled room.
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