Suspended Ceiling
Suspended ceilings are also commonly referred to as drop or dropped ceilings. This type of ceiling hangs down below the existing ceiling from a metal grid, allowing interior designers to conceal electrical lines, plumbing lines, lighting fixtures, and HVAC ventilation.
Tray Ceiling
Tray ceilings have a multi-level design that starts at a high center, then drops down by equal increments as you add levels. As suggested by the name of this design, the ceiling layout resembles a square or rectangular tray.
Vaulted Ceiling
Vaulted ceilings are a popular options for homes with a lot of vertical space. This type of raised ceiling increases the height of a room, giving the appearance of a larger space. There are several types of vaulted ceilings, which are typically used in living rooms, dining rooms, and other large rooms where guests tend to gather.
Beam Ceiling
Beam ceilings can give a home a more rustic or contemporary style. With this type of ceiling, broad, attractive wood beams are exposed in the interior of the space, while the gaps between the beams are typically covered with finished drywall. Some homes feature heavy load-bearing beams, while others may not feature appealing support beams. If this is the case, the installer can create a beam ceiling effect using plywood and miters to achieve a similar aesthetic.
Shed Ceiling
Shed ceilings are also commonly known as single-slope ceilings. This type of ceiling starts at a high point on one wall, then slopes down toward the opposite wall, ending at a lower point to create a single-slope ceiling, similar to those seen on small sheds. Shed ceilings can also be installed in an attic or loft to help increase the available space in the area. Even in a larger space, wood ceilings can be suspended on a slope. The installer simply uses a standard suspension grid but positions the main runners on a slope to mimic a shed ceiling.
Coved Ceiling
Coved ceilings are a design choice commonly found in theatres, churches, or formal areas of a home, like the dining room. This type of ceiling is made using curved molding or framing known as coves. The coves start at the top of the wall, then extend up to form a concave ceiling with curved edges instead of sharp angles.
Coffered Ceiling
A coffered ceiling features a grid of inverted panels, each separated by molding to better accentuate the design. This type of ceiling offers a classic luxurious look. The panels can be installed with a standard T-bar suspension grid to improve the installation process.
Conventional Ceiling
The most common ceiling option for residential homes is known as a conventional ceiling. This type of ceiling is flat, made of low-cost materials, and relatively easy to install. The plain look and flat style make conventional ceilings ideal for blending into the background of a home.
Sloped Ceiling
Similar to a shed ceiling or a vaulted cathedral ceiling, this type of ceiling has a sloping roof. The two sides of the roof start low on the walls, then rise up and come to a peak in the center of the room. However, the ceiling is not actually vaulted to create this effect.
Exposed Ceiling
Coffee shops and restaurants frequently use an exposed ceiling design for an industrial aesthetic. Exposed ceilings show all the components that are typically hidden, like HVAC ducting, pipes, and electrical wires, though these elements may be painted to create a more cohesive look.