Bathroom Ceiling Ideas to Illuminate Your Space

Is your bathroom ceiling looking a little dull and dated? Don't overlook this important design element when giving your bathroom a makeover. With the right ceiling treatment, you can create an eye-catching focal point that makes your bathroom feel fresh and inviting.

From using color and textures to adding architectural details, there are many innovative ways to illuminate your bathroom space through clever ceiling ideas. Read on for inspirational ideas to breathe new life into your bathroom ceiling.

Choose Moisture-Resistant Materials

Before selecting any ceiling materials, remember that bathrooms have high humidity. Any finishes you choose need to stand up to moisture without warping, growing mold, or peeling.

For ceiling surfaces directly above shower and tub areas, use ultra-waterproof options like:

• Cement board
• Acrylic panels
• Composite tileboard
• Fiberglass

In general bathroom areas, moisture-resistant choices include:

• Painted drywall with bathroom-specific paint
• Tongue-and-groove wood planks
• Vinyl wallpaper and borders
• PVC, tin, or faux tin tiles

Pro tip: Use mold-inhibiting bathroom paint even on non-wet surfaces, since humidity can cause mildew anywhere in the bathroom. An eggshell or semi-gloss sheen will also stand up to moisture better than a flat paint.

Paint Your Ceiling a Bold Color

Painting the ceiling can be a budget-friendly way to dramatically transform the look of your bathroom. While white and off-white remain popular choices, don't shy away from using bold colors.

Deep blues and grays create an elegant, cozy spa-like ambiance. Try Benjamin Moore's Helsingor Blue or Kendall Charcoal. Green hues like sage and seafoam add a refreshing pop of color. If you want something more dramatic, go for a rich shade like burgundy, navy, or charcoal.

For a more subtle approach, use lighter tones of blush, blue, gray, or green. A soft neutral like tannin brown or almond cream can provide a warm, welcoming look. Just stick to paints formulated for bathrooms to avoid issues with mildew and humidity damage.

Add an Accent Wall or Ceiling Border

Another way to incorporate color is through a painted accent wall or by adding a wallpaper or tile border at the top of the wall where it meets the ceiling. This allows you to create a bold focal point without overpowering the space.

Try tying it into your color scheme by selecting a darker or brighter version of your wall color. For example, pair light blue walls with a navy ceiling border. Or combine muted gray walls with a glossy white tile border for nice contrast.

Install Wood Paneling or Planks

The warmth of wood instantly livens up bathroom ceilings. Tongue-and-groove planks add beautiful texture and dimension. Use wide planks for a more dramatic look or narrow strips for a beachy, cottage vibe.

Since wood paneling has natural moisture-resistance, it's a great ceiling choice for bathrooms. Seek out boards made from cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine. These dense woods have natural water-repellent properties.

Try Farmhouse Style Wood Accents

For a farmhouse or rustic aesthetic, install exposed wood beams or decorative shiplap panels. Space beams evenly across the length of the ceiling. Or create visual interest by alternating wide and narrow beams.

Stained wood offers an eye-catching contrast against a painted ceiling. For a more subtle look, use matching wood tones on both the planks and ceiling.

Add Architectural Elements

Installing architectural elements like beams, trellises, and coffered squares can give your bathroom ceiling a custom built-in look.

Faux Beams

Want the look of beams without the work of installing them? Use decorative molding to create faux beams for visual drama. Run them horizontally across the ceiling's length or in both directions to form a grid pattern.

Trellises and Canopies

Trellises add a pretty garden-inspired touch and can be used to create a focal point over the tub. For the shower area, a recessed trellis or canopy works well. Use materials like wood, bamboo, or metal that won't warp from moisture.

Coffered Squares

Coffered ceilings with sunken, square panels provide elegant definition. Less dramatic than beams, the recessed squares add charming texture. For impact, emphasize the coffers with trim molding or paint inside the squares a contrasting color.

Use Specialty Ceiling Materials

In addition to traditional drywall, planks, and tile, consider more unique materials to give your bathroom ceiling an unexpected twist.

Tin Tiles

For vintage industrial flair, install a ceiling of tin tiles. The glossy tiles come in an array of shapes like squares, hexagons, diamonds, and scalloped edges. Opt for genuine tin or faux tin for a budget version.

Wallpaper

Today's wallpaper offers amazing durability and water-resistance. Use a chic print, faux finish, or textured vinyl wallpaper to make the ceiling a work of art.

Mosaic Tiles

Covering the ceiling in small mosaic tiles creates brilliant pattern and color. The tiles' high sheen and artistic motifs act like a jewelry box lid overhead. Choose glass, ceramic, or porcelain tiles in glossy or iridescent finishes.

Add Lighting Elements

Strategically placed lighting transforms any ceiling into a design feature. Use fixtures like pendant lights, sconces, and skylights to provide both form and function.

Pendant Lights

Hang a pendant light or chandelier over the vanity or tub area for an elegant focal point. Opt for clear glass globes to keep the look light and airy. For more presence, choose a dramatic metal fixture as a striking sculpture overhead.

Sconces

Line the walls with elegant sconces for ambient lighting. Their uplighting highlights the edges where walls meet ceiling. Sconces also eliminate dark shadows in corners when placed strategically.

Skylights and Windows

There's no better way to illuminate a bathroom than with natural light. Skylights and windows make small bathrooms feel more open. Place them high on walls or angled on ceilings to maximize light without compromising privacy.

Achieve Different Design Styles

Your choice of ceiling materials and accents can emphasize the overall design style you want for your bathroom. Here are some examples to spark ideas:

Rustic Style

Exposed wood beams, planks, antler chandeliers, and filament bulb pendants evoke natural and rustic charm.

Modern and Sleek

Glossy paint, wallpaper, or tile in bold colors create a streamlined modern look. Add recessed lighting for drama.

Coastal and Nautical

Tongue-and-groove planking painted crisp white suggests seaside cottages. Anchor with a rope pendant light.

Moody colors like charcoal gray and wood paneling offer a rich, soothing retreat. Set the mood with candle wall sconces.

Get inspired by these ideas to create your own beautiful bathroom ceiling design. Aim for cohesiveness in materials and accents that complement your overall bathroom style.