Get inspired by these fearless designs.

Leave flat, white ceilings in 2017! While walls get all the glory, ceilings are often a missed opportunity for colours, textures and designs. Elevate your space with these cool and creative ideas from some of our favourite homes. (Photo: Eymeric Widling.)

1. Daring Degrees

The white oak ceiling in this living space has extra character thanks to the addition of a detailed angle treatment. Rockwood Custom Homes‘ Allison Grafton designed the 18-foot ceiling to add sophistication while still keeping the big space warm and welcoming. See more of this elegant Calgary home. (Photo: Martin Tessler.)

2. Purple People-Pleaser

No, this image isn’t upside down! The mirror-like design of this staircase ceiling adds texture and flare to an otherwise ordinary liminal space. Homeowners Sandy and Larry Martin, interested in having a sleek, energy-efficient home, renovated this duplex with the help of Calgary designer Paul Lavoie. See more of this three-tiered masterpiece. (Photo: Janis Nicolay.)

3. Windowed Wonder

Who says walls get to have all the fun? With floor-to-ceiling windows leaving little space for detail, designer Erin Chow decided to wallpaper the ceiling. The pattern adds drama and depth to the space without taking away from the gorgeous view. See more of this condo that maximizes both space and creativity. (Photo: Phil Crozier.)

4. Cozy Concept

Thick beam detailing makes a subtle but firm statement in this cozy living space; white paint provides contrast and preserves the open-concept design, while the beams create structure and intimacy. See more of designer James McIntyre’s renovation. (Photo: Rose Matis.)

5. Rustic Renewal

The rough-sawn beams of this former dance hall spice up an otherwise sleek modernization. The beams were preserved throughout the renovation and lend character to the space reminiscent of the large groups that gathered here more than 60 years before. See more of this Scandinavian-inspired Northern B.C. home. (Photo: Phil Crozier.)

6. Moulded Masterpiece

Subtle meets stardom in designer Alykhan Velji’s mid-century home. The sharp, cheerful detailing in this ceiling lends a festive touch for any season. See more of this designer’s tropical Palm Springs-inspired abode.

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Alyssa Hirose

Alyssa Hirose

Alyssa Hirose is a Vancouver-based writer, editor, illustrator and comic artist. Her work has been featured in Vancouver magazine, Western Living, BCBusiness, Avenue, Serviette, Geist, BCLiving, Nuvo, Montecristo, The Georgia Straight and more. Her beats are food, travel, arts and culture, style, interior design and anything dog-related. She publishes a daily autobiographical comic on Instagram at @hialyssacomics.