Is The Ceiling Really The “5th Wall”?

If you’ve read a design magazine or watched a design show you may have come across this phrase before - “the ceiling is the 5th wall”. What does it mean? And is it true?

The phrase simply means: don’t forget about the ceiling when you’re decorating a space. Just as you wouldn’t paint three walls and leave the fourth plain drywall, it’s important not to leave the ceiling white by default. Why? You have an opportunity to bring in an element that will add to and enhance the decor in the space.

There are so many options, but one of the easiest is to choose an off-white in an undertone that works with the color scheme you have in the space. Another more dramatic option that is gaining popularity is color drenching, where you paint the ceiling (and trim) in the same color as the walls.

And, a designer at heart, I will always say: wallpaper! Even if you have paint on the walls, adding wallpaper to the ceiling can punch up any room design. It doesn’t need to be a bold pattern either! Textures, metallics, tonal patterns all work here as well.

So, is the ceiling the fifth wall? YES! Make sure you look up and take it into consideration the next time you’re planning a home project. And if you need help with your next design project, please reach out to Abode Virtual Design! We’d love to be part of your team!