Mistakes Everyone Makes When Decorating A Room With High Ceilings

Decorating a room with high ceilings sounds like a dream, right? So much space and so much potential! But in reality, it's one of those things that looks easy on Pinterest but is deceptively tricky. High ceilings are a blessing but can also turn your living room into a cold, cavernous space if you don't handle them right. What are the most common mistakes? Ignoring vertical space, skipping statement lighting, and forgetting to add warmth.

When decorating rooms with high ceilings, one mistake stands taller than the rest – ignoring all that glorious vertical space. Bare walls in a room with high ceilings can make it feel sterile. And while some might say "minimalism is chic," there's a big difference between purposeful simplicity and looking like you forgot to finish decorating.

To fix this design faux pas, treat your walls as part of the décor and not just an afterthought. For starters, consider adding an oversized art piece or creating a gallery wall that climbs toward the ceiling. Tall bookshelves are another great way to use vertical space. Bonus points if you style them with plants or décor. Long curtains that reach from the ceiling to the floor also work wonders. They soften the look of the space and draw the eye upward, emphasizing your ceiling in a way that feels intentional. However, don't just stop at one bold element. High ceilings demand layers. Think grids of framed photos or even layers of shelving to keep the space visually interesting. If you're feeling adventurous, try architectural details like wood paneling or molding to give those tall walls a bit of dimension.

Skipping statement lighting? Bad idea

You know what's worse than bare walls in a room with high ceilings? Poor lighting. Lighting is the secret sauce of home design — it ties everything together and sets the mood. But when it comes to rooms with high ceilings, most people completely drop the ball. They select small, boring light fixtures that get lost in the vastness of the space. This results in a room that looks dim, flat, and uninspired.

The fix? Go big or go home. Statement lighting is your best friend in a room with high ceilings. Dramatic chandeliers, oversized pendant lights, or even a collection of hanging bulbs at varying heights add personality and visual impact. To ensure you choose the perfect lighting for your space, start by considering its scale. A tiny flush mount light just won't cut it in a room with soaring ceilings. Instead, opt for something bold that matches the proportions of the space.

Remember, even the most gorgeous light fixtures won't save you if you forget the little details. Consider the color temperature of your bulbs -– warm light adds coziness, while cooler tones can make the space feel sterile. And don't be afraid to experiment with dimmers. Also, remember to use different types of lighting. Ambient lighting will work wonders for overall brightness, task lighting for specific areas, and accent lighting to highlight key design elements.

Forgetting to add warmth? Big mistake

High ceilings are beautiful, but they have a bad habit of making a room feel cold and impersonal. Sure, sleek and modern is nice, but nobody wants to hang out in a space that feels like a corporate lobby. The solution to this is adding warmth, texture, and personality to make the room feel cozy and inviting.

Start by focusing on textures. Soft, plush elements like rugs, throw pillows, and blankets can help. When choosing rugs, go for something large enough to cover a significant portion of the floor -– tiny rugs look awkward in big rooms. When choosing throw pillows and blankets, go for a mix of patterns and textures to keep things visually interesting. Velvet, knit, and faux fur are all great options. Color is another key factor. Warm, earthy tones like terracotta, rust, and beige can help balance out the coldness of a tall space. Adding warm colors through accessories can make a big difference even if you prefer a neutral palette.

Finally, don't forget the personal touches. Family photos, art pieces, and quirky décor items help give the space character. These elements make the room feel lived in and loved. Plants are another great way to add warmth. Tall indoor trees like fiddle-leaf figs or palms help fill the space while bringing a touch of nature indoors. Plus, they can improve air quality — a bonus!

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