Everyone pays so much attention to walls and floors but one of the most important parts of room is the ceiling. Whenever I'm creating a color scheme for a room, I like to give the ceiling a hint of color. Here are some very inspiring "overhead" images that I have collected. Enjoy!
1 This is a truly stunning ceiling. We can't all have this architecture, but you could paint the over-scale octagon and its negative space on your ceiling for an equally beautiful effect. (image source unknown)
2 This is beautiful and extremely detailed, but you could easily replicate the colors and the delicate outlines. If you took out the lacey medallions and just had the straight lines it can actually feel quite contemporary. (image source unknown)
3 A simple motif looks great on the ceiling. Just look up! This room and motif is very specific but you get the idea. (image from designer Kelly Wearstler's former dining room in her book, "Modern Glamour: the Art of Unexpected Style")
4 For a more involved project you could apply wooden lath strips in a design to create architectural interest. I have always wanted to try a Chinese Chippendale version - certainly not in my new apartment though, maybe my imaginary country house.
5 Strong, bold color goes a long way and gives the illusion of height. I don't know that I would want a red ceiling but a beautiful sky/powdery blue would be heavenly. I do love the carnations on the table, though! They are, in fact, my favorite flower. (image source unknown)
6 I love the way this playful child's room uses striped wallpaper to create such a dramatic effect. Images like this are what drive me to continue to buy old books - this idea would be just as beautiful today. (Image from the NYT Book of Interior Design and Decoration)
Kevin Sharkey 
From: Stephen Tucker | 9/22/09 at 1:02 pm
Kevin -
I have heard that in a "plain" painted room, the ceiling color should be a shade lighter than the walls. I have also heard that the ceiling color should match the trim color. And of course the traditional "just white" ceiling. What are your thoughts?
From: Brian | 9/23/09 at 11:31 am
Thanks so much for the inspiration on ceilings! I agree that this is ofetn a forgotten area that people forget. After installing a tin ceiling in our pantry (which I want to duplicate in the adjoining kitchen area), and renovating a old plastered ceiling, I can appreciate this surface to a great degree.
Kudos to plaster washers! Ever heard of them?
From: Linda | 9/23/09 at 2:57 pm
Kevin,
Would love to know what suggestions you have for popcorn ceilings - have them - hate them - scared to try to tackle them? Would love any ideas...