French Country Ceiling Finishing Ideas

Colors

• Painting the ceiling is one way to enhance the look of the room. Traditional French country style is very warm and inviting while remaining delicate and chic. One idea for finishing the ceiling is to continue whatever color treatment you choose onto the ceiling. For example, look for satin-finish paints in shades of orange, gold, red, navy blue and browns. For matte colors, stick with warm neutrals, such as cream and tan.

Wallpaper

• Wallpaper is a favorite decorating material for French country living spaces. Look for wallpaper in distinctly French-inspired prints, such as toile. Toile features repeating pastoral images perhaps found on historic country sides in France. Toile is a favorite French design for its intricate hand-drawn designs and contrasting color patterns. Other favorite wallpaper designs are those that feature stripes and repeating floral patterns.

Paint Techniques

• Instead of a flat paint treatment, you can use different techniques to create a more dynamic presence with the ceiling. For example, use a "sponging" or "ragging" technique to create texture with your paint. If you have a stencil, you can use it to create ornate patterns on the ceiling of the room. Choose a stencil with floral patterns or intricate scroll patterns like the ones you might find in a French-inspired wallpaper design. Paint over the entire surface of the ceiling or as a trim to crown molding or overhead lighting fixtures.

Molding and Paneling

• Molding and paneling can be used to create architectural interest and presence in the space. Use crown molding to frame the top of the walls where they meet the ceiling. Extend this look to the rest of the ceiling's surface. Use a miter box to cut angles to frame out trim boxes on the ceiling. You could also use rich wood paneling to cover the entirety of the ceiling, which will make the room seem lower and cozier for a warmer and more inviting feel.