Ceilings

Delia Tacheny

INT 322 - Building Systems

Weekly Summary 

This week was a short and sweet chapter on Ceilings - the thing that's always above our heads. Though it may not seem like the most important feature of a space as an interior designer, Ceiling design incorporates many different facets and drastically impacts the feel of a space. Some of these important considerations include: the coordination of lighting, mechanical, and other ceiling mounted equipment: acoustics; and, of course, the spatial properties of a room. 

There are two primary ceiling styles we see today - either flat ceilings or cathedral/ sloped ceilings. The cathedral style was made popular during the 70's and provides a sense of spaciousness; however, the integration of lighting is difficult in such an open ceiling as well as issues with proper heating and cooling. Ceilings are most often finished with Gypsum wallboard, though plaster was the popular choice prior. Both of these are more often used in residential settings. 

Suspended Acoustical Panel Ceilings (SAPC) is the most common choice in commercial settings as it is accessible, convenient, and provides noise control. The standard sizes are either 2ft by 2ft or 2ft by 4ft panels, and there are variations in how the grid can be revealed. They are often made of fiber glass or mineral fiber, though wood and other materials are options as well. From a sustainability standpoint, recycled tiles are an option as well, and it is important to evaluate VOC content.

There are some variations and style/ practical options that can be chosen for ceilings such as a drop ceiling, and exposed structure, or even exposed mechanical. The book also talked about some historical styles such as vaulted ceilings, barrel vaulting, and domes, which are common features in historic churches and buildings all over the world; in History of Architecture class, these were common terms referring to many of the buildings we covered. 

Ultimately, ceilings do make a difference on a space, and utilizing ceiling design to reinforce the overall design of a space is key. 

Well-Designed Ceiling Systems

I looked up a variety of ceiling designs and found hundreds of designs and styles. I picked three of my favorites, and here they are:

This first design utilizes the drop ceiling method as well as exposed mechanical. The hanging ceiling platforms not only cover up the exposed ceiling above, but they also define the space of the room. A space that seems very spacious and vast now seems more inviting, cozy, and safe. Though nothing crazy, I think this design was well-thought-out and well-executed. 

I am absolutely in love with this next design. Looking up, you might forget that you are looking at a ceiling. The use of plants to define the ceiling space is not only clever, but also creates an experience rather than just a space. This design could also be considered biophilic design which we talked about in our first chapter. It adds definition and dimensionality to the space without invading too much on the active space below. 

Last, I thought this design was very fascinating and slightly bizarre. This is a highly sculptural ceiling incorporating light and dynamic shape to clearly define this space. Once again, this design creates an experience and appears to pair well-with and emphasize the entire design concept. My only critique would be that from looking at it, it feels a little claustrophobic; however, I think that this slightly invasive and 3D design suits the space well.