Tray Ceiling Bedroom Paint Ideas to Elevate Your Space
When I decided to redesign my bedroom, I knew that a simple yet impactful change would be painting my tray ceiling. A tray ceiling offers a beautiful architectural feature, but it can often look unfinished or bland without the right paint choice. I discovered that the right paint can add so much depth and drama, transforming an ordinary bedroom into a cozy retreat or a luxurious haven.
In this post, I will share the best tray ceiling bedroom paint ideas that I’ve tried and that I believe can work wonders for your space. Whether you want a calming ambiance, a bold statement, or a touch of elegance, there are endless possibilities. The secret is knowing how to combine colors, finishes, and techniques that highlight the tray ceiling’s beauty. Let’s dive into the various ideas that can completely enhance your bedroom!
1. Classic White Tray Ceiling Paint Idea
I’ve always loved the timeless look of white ceilings, and when it comes to tray ceilings, white remains an unbeatable choice. White is the perfect color for enhancing the architectural features of the tray ceiling, making the room feel bigger and brighter. This color creates a clean, fresh feel that never goes out of style.
When I chose white for my tray ceiling, it instantly opened up my space and gave my bedroom a more airy and spacious feel. If you’re after a subtle and calming atmosphere, this color is ideal. You can even pair it with a soft, neutral color on the walls for a cohesive look. I recommend using a matte or flat finish for the ceiling to avoid glare from lights.
2. Soft Gray for a Modern Touch
Soft gray is another fantastic color choice for tray ceilings. I was initially hesitant, but after trying it, I found that it added a modern elegance to the room. Gray is versatile—it can either be a light, neutral tone that blends with the walls or a darker shade that creates depth and contrast.
For my space, I used a lighter gray and paired it with off-white walls. This combination helped me achieve a sophisticated and serene vibe. If you prefer a bolder approach, try a deeper charcoal gray for the tray ceiling while keeping the walls lighter to create a striking contrast.
3. Incorporating Bold Colors
If you want to make your tray ceiling the focal point of your bedroom, don’t shy away from using bold colors. I experimented with navy blue and found that it immediately added drama and a sense of luxury to the space. Deep, rich tones like navy or dark green can make a room feel more intimate and cozy.
Bold colors work particularly well in larger bedrooms where the tray ceiling can handle the depth and visual weight. I suggest balancing these colors with neutral walls to avoid overwhelming the room. To highlight the tray ceiling, use gold or silver accents for the trim or crown molding.
4. Two-Tone Tray Ceiling Paint Ideas
I love using two-tone paint to add some depth and interest to a tray ceiling. The concept is simple: you paint the central part of the tray ceiling one color and the surrounding areas another. For example, I used a soft blue in the center of the ceiling and a warm beige around the edges. This creates a framing effect that draws attention to the tray feature.
If you’re unsure about using bold colors, this is a perfect way to experiment with different tones without committing to one. It’s also an excellent way to blend contrasting colors. I’ve seen dark gray with white and soft yellow with light green as two-tone combinations that work wonderfully.
5. Using Earthy Tones for a Natural Look
For a calming and grounded bedroom, earthy tones are the way to go. I personally love using shades like warm taupe, sandy beige, or soft terracotta to give the room a cozy and natural feel. Earthy colors work especially well when paired with wooden furniture or decor.
This color scheme can create a relaxing sanctuary where you can unwind after a long day. I recommend pairing these tones with white or neutral walls to prevent the room from feeling too heavy. Earthy tones help enhance the tranquility of a bedroom by making it feel more connected to nature.
6. Dark and Dramatic for a Bold Statement
If you’re after a bold and dramatic effect, dark colors are a fantastic choice for your tray ceiling. I’ve tried using a deep charcoal and found it gives the room a luxurious, almost cinematic feel. Darker colors on tray ceilings work great in larger rooms because they provide visual interest and depth.
The key to pulling this off is balance. I made sure my walls were a lighter, more neutral shade, which helped prevent the room from feeling too closed in. Consider using a satin finish to allow the light to reflect off the dark color, adding dimension and richness to the ceiling.
7. Soft Pastels for a Calm and Cozy Vibe
If your bedroom is a place where you want to retreat and relax, soft pastels can give your tray ceiling a gentle, calming vibe. I’ve experimented with pastel pink and soft lavender, and these hues instantly made my bedroom feel peaceful and cozy.
Pastels are perfect for small to medium-sized rooms, as they keep the space feeling open and airy. I paired my pastel ceiling with white walls and light wood furniture, which enhanced the overall soft aesthetic. Pastels work best when they create a sense of serenity that invites relaxation.
8. Painted Trim and Crown Molding Ideas
The trim and crown molding around a tray ceiling are just as important as the color of the ceiling itself. I’ve found that highlighting these elements with a contrasting color can bring attention to the architectural beauty of the tray ceiling. For example, painting the crown molding white while leaving the ceiling a soft gray creates a classic and elegant look.
Alternatively, you can paint the trim a metallic color like gold or silver for an extra touch of luxury. Adding a layer of trim or molding adds more depth to the tray ceiling, making it feel more refined.
9. High Gloss Finishes for a Luxurious Look
When I wanted to give my tray ceiling a high-end feel, I decided to try a high-gloss finish. This type of finish makes the ceiling shine and catch the light in a way that a matte or flat finish can’t. The gloss reflects light, creating a more dynamic and vibrant look.
Gloss finishes work especially well with darker shades like navy or black, as the shine helps balance the intensity of the color. However, be cautious not to overdo it—high gloss should be used sparingly, especially in a bedroom where relaxation is key.
10. Tray Ceiling with Wallpaper Accents
For something a little more unique, I experimented with wallpapering the center of the tray ceiling. I used a subtle floral pattern in soft beige and gold, which added an element of texture and design without overpowering the room. The rest of the ceiling was painted a solid color, and the wallpapered area became a feature that drew the eye upward.
This idea works especially well if you’re looking for a more personalized, creative look. You can find wallpaper that suits any style—whether modern, vintage, or bohemian—making it a versatile option for any bedroom decor.
11. Using Metallic Shades for Glamour
If you want to add a touch of glamour to your bedroom, consider using metallic shades for your tray ceiling. I’ve had great results with metallic gold and silver, which gave my room an elegant, high-end feel. The metallic sheen also reflects light, brightening up the room in a subtle yet striking way.
Metallic finishes pair beautifully with neutral or darker walls. However, it’s important to balance metallic ceilings with other neutral elements to keep the overall look from becoming too flashy.
12. Incorporating Lighting with Your Tray Ceiling Paint
Lighting plays a huge role in how your tray ceiling appears. I’ve found that adding lighting elements like recessed lighting or a chandelier can enhance the paint color you choose. Lights can make a darker ceiling pop or highlight the texture of a matte finish.
When I paired my navy tray ceiling with recessed lighting, it created a warm, inviting glow that made the ceiling feel even more dramatic. Lighting brings out the best in any ceiling paint, and it’s worth considering when you’re deciding on colors.
FAQ Section
- What color is best for tray ceiling in a bedroom?
A soft, neutral color like white or light gray works well for tray ceilings, especially if you want a fresh, calming atmosphere. For a more dramatic effect, you can try deeper shades like navy blue or charcoal gray. - Can I use bold colors for my tray ceiling?
Yes, bold colors like navy blue, deep green, or rich burgundy can add a luxurious touch to your bedroom. Just make sure to balance these with lighter walls to avoid making the room feel too heavy. - Should I paint my tray ceiling the same color as the walls?
It’s totally up to you! If you want a seamless look, you can paint your tray ceiling the same color as the walls. Alternatively, you can go for a two-tone approach to create contrast and depth. - How do I paint the trim around my tray ceiling?
I recommend painting the trim in a contrasting color like white, gold, or silver to make the tray ceiling stand out. This helps define the shape and adds extra elegance to the room. - What finish is best for tray ceilings?
For a clean look, a matte or flat finish works best for most tray ceilings. However, if you want a shiny effect, you can try satin or high-gloss finishes for a more dramatic look.
Conclusion
Painting your tray ceiling is a simple yet effective way to transform the look and feel of your bedroom. From calming neutrals to bold, dramatic colors, there’s no limit to the styles you can achieve. The key is finding a color that complements your room’s existing decor and adds the right amount of depth, light, and interest to your space.
Whether you prefer modern gray tones, earthy shades, or metallic accents, painting your tray ceiling is an investment in both style and ambiance. I hope these ideas inspire you to get creative with your own bedroom ceiling, adding a personal touch that makes the space feel uniquely yours.