Rather than just a blank or neutral surface, a ceiling can be a significant design element that adds depth, personality, and unique visual impact to a space, enhancing the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the room. Just look at Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel.

For four painstaking years, the artist dedicated himself to creating an enduring icon of artistic excellence that, to this day, compels visitors to tilt their heads and crane their necks in awe of its intricate beauty.

While we may not all possess Michelangelo’s extraordinary talent, we can take a page from his book and introduce a touch of that splendor into our own homes with statement ceilings. There are various ways to create one, and the design possibilities are virtually limitless. Here’s a closer look at some popular techniques and ideas for transforming a ceiling into a work of art.

Paint it

White ceilings have been the norm in homes for many years, but there’s no reason you have to stick with tradition. Painting the ceiling a bold, dark color can actually make a room appear larger. For example, a black ceiling contrasted with light-colored walls draws the eye upward, creating the illusion of an elongated room. If you prefer a less dramatic look, choose a color that complements the existing decor and paint in the room, which can lend a cozier and more cohesive atmosphere. Whatever you opt for, painting your ceilings is a relatively inexpensive project that can make a big impact on your home.

Add a mural

If you aspire to channel your inner Michelangelo, or at least capture a glimpse of his genius, consider adorning your ceilings with hand-painted murals, whether you tackle the endeavor yourself or enlist the help of an imaginative friend. A mural depicting a forest sky, fluffy clouds, or a star-studded night can be a delightful addition to a bedroom, bringing a touch of the great outdoors inside so you can bask in the wonders of nature while relaxing. Or go for a colorful, abstract mural that brings a new level of energy into your living room. Your only restrictions are your imagination, so get creative and make your ceilings pop.

Hang wallpaper

Over the past few years, wallpaper has slowly found its way back into homes across the nation, with more people using it to bring in a maximalist element to their spaces. And though hanging it on the ceiling may take a little extra effort, doing so is a great way to enhance the aesthetics of a room, especially when it coordinates with the rest of the decor. Imagine how beautiful it’d be to have a floral pattern or abstract detail on the ceiling of your bedroom, living room, or bathroom. Just note that because wallpaper on the ceiling will be viewed from farther away, you’ll want to pick a pattern without small, intricate details that could get lost from a distance.

Incorporate architectural details

Adding architectural elements can bring texture and dimension to a space and make it feel more luxurious. For instance, intricate molding along the edges of a ceiling, reminiscent of the styles often found in homes during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, introduce elegance to an otherwise blank space, while naturally stained wood beams can play well with neutral walls and cabinets in a dining room or kitchen. Meanwhile, coffered ceilings (grids of sunken panels) create drama and extravagance, but they generally only work well in larger rooms with walls at least nine feet tall since the square or rectangular coffers take away from the available height. You can further enhance the drama of this ceiling design by installing recessed lighting, which accentuates and enriches the depth of the coffers.

When upgrading a ceiling, it’s important to consider the main style and purpose of the room as well as the cost of making it over, which can vary quite a bit. Ultimately, a statement ceiling offers a creative opportunity to transform a room’s design, turning an often overlooked surface into a captivating feature that leaves a lasting impression.