When decorating a room, the ceiling may be the last thing we choose to accentuate – but experts say this 'fifth wall' should no longer be forgotten. And it seems Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are already on board with this teaching.
It may come as no surprise that we're already long-time lovers of the couple's New York home – with every space, including this (their main bedroom), exhibiting a rustic yet modern aesthetic. Drawing from its natural surroundings (located in leafy Pound Ridge), it's hard not to note the home's organic architectural assets – starting, most prominently with its wooden-beamed ceiling that sets a precedent for the wider organic modern design choices.
While we can't all enjoy the same architectural features seen in Lively's home, their space is nonetheless a reminder of just how impactful our ceilings can be. Whether we paint them or incorporate new textures (wood included), we feel encouraged to take them, quite literally, to a new level.
'Many tend to ignore their ceilings when decorating their homes, but interior designers refer to it as the 'fifth wall' for good reason,' comments Cathryn Sanders, Head of Creative at Earthborn. 'You'll be surprised to learn just how much treating your ceilings, just as you would any other wall in your house, can completely transform the appearance of your rooms.'
In Lively/Reynolds's case, they exhibit statement wooden beams that complement the other wooden accents and paneling around their bedroom. However, we can still create an equally powerful talking point when beginning with a more conventional ceiling.
'Decorating the fifth wall has become a hit with interior designers and homeowners as it makes use of a crucial yet often neglected feature in your home and gives it the attention it deserves. The concept of taking what is essentially a blank canvas and making your own mark on it is hugely appealing and leaves plenty of room to let your imagination run wild,' Sanders explains.
'With so much opportunity for experimentation, the possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating your ceiling. Materials that would typically be associated with walls and floors, such as wood paneling or tiles, make for a really unique and striking aesthetic and are a clever way to challenge expectations.'
For a simpler alternative, we should also look to paint, or even wallpaper, that show we've taken the time to consider our fifth wall carefully.
'Wallpaper, artwork and murals have also become increasingly stylish options to decorate your ceiling with and create an air of decadence and sophistication. Faux effect wallpapers are especially great at this as they can recreate the appearance of luxury and high-end materials,' Sanders adds.
'Similarly, one of the most eye-catching ways to decorate your ceiling can be achieved with just a simple splash of paint. Whilst there is no right or wrong way to approach painting your ceiling, it can help to take into account how this will work with the overall design scheme of your room.'
Shop the Lively/Reynolds bedroom look
Ceilings aside, we can buy into the couple's bedroom with these inspired picks below.
