Ceiling medallions, sometimes called ceiling roses, are ornamental pieces that serve as a decorative finish to your ceiling light. They can enhance the look of your light by creating the illusion of a larger base and should be selected to complement your décor.
This guide will walk you through choosing the right size, style, and color to complement your space.
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Ceiling Medallion Styles: A Touch of Elegance for Every Home
Ceiling medallions are a more traditional style element that commonly draw inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman design elements. They often feature honeysuckle, egg and dart, or other classical style patterns, making them an ideal complement to a traditional interior.
With that said, contemporary, metal ceiling medallions are also available and popular today, so you can choose a style to complement your décor.
It’s recommended to not stray too far from your baseboard and trim style. An ornate trim and moulding lends itself to an ornate medallion, whereas simple, smooth trim and baseboard demand a more contemporary style.
Size Matters: Picking the Perfect Ceiling Medallion for Your Space
Avoid overpowering your room with a ceiling medallion that is too large. Use this guide to help you decide the size range you should look for in a ceiling rose.
- If your room is smaller than 140 square feet,use a medallion that is less than 20 inches.
- If your room is smaller than 210 square feet, use a medallion that is between 20 and 30 inches.
- Rooms larger than 200 square feet can accommodate a medallion larger than 30 inches.
- If your room is larger 280 square feet, you can comfortably use a 40 inch medallion.
If you are hanging a medallion with a chandelier, the medallion should not be wider than the chandelier. Typically, a ceiling medallion should be 2/3 the width of the chandelier.
Also consider visual weight. If you have a smaller area, avoid dark, heavy-looking ceiling medallions. Scale down the size if you are installing it in a room with a low ceiling or choose a larger medallion if you have a very high ceiling.
With any project, 80 percent of the work is done in the planning stage. We have simple checklists to help you get organized and make sure you’re prepared for every step along the way. Download them now for FREE:
Color Magic: Customizing Ceiling Medallions for Your Decor
Most ceiling medallions are white when you purchase them. This gives you a great opportunity to coordinate with your décor. White medallions can be painted or stained as you desire. They usually are painted to match the light, but can also be used to highlight colors throughout the space.
You can purchase a pre-finished ceiling medallion to match your current décor, but be aware that it may require some touch-ups after installation.
DIY Installation Tips for Ceiling Medallions
Before you buy, consider the installation. If you are adding the medallion over an existing light, you will need to uninstall the light before adding the medallion. Some medallions can be attached to the ceiling using an adhesive, but others may require nails or even screws.
Read through the manufacturer’s installation instructions so you will be prepared to install your new ceiling medallion.
Final Thoughts: Elevating Your Space with the Perfect Ceiling Medallion
Ceiling medallions are a delightful blend of artistic expression and architectural beauty. Whether you choose a traditional design or a modern twist, the right medallion can transform a simple light fixture into the centerpiece of your room.
Remember, it’s not just about picking a piece; it’s about creating a harmony between your decor, the medallion’s style, size, and color, and the story you want your space to tell. Embrace the opportunity to add a touch of personal flair to your ceiling. Happy decorating!
Frequently Asked Questions about Ceiling Medallions
What if the ceiling medallion that I like does not have a hole in the center?
Some ceiling medallions come with pre-cut holes, others do not. Since they are lightweight, ceiling medallions are pretty easy to cut through. First, you will need to measure the size of the chain or anchor of your light that will come through the medallion. Carefully draw this in the center of the medallion. Then cut it out, using a sharp knife or power tool. Make sure not to make a hole so large that you can see through it.
Should I select a medallion that is larger, smaller or the same size as my light?
You want a medallion to be whichever size that looks best. If you are hanging a medallion above a chandelier, it should be about 2/3 the size of the chandelier. Sizes should be adjusted depending on the size of a room and the height of the ceiling, which I cover in the article above.
Can I paint a ceiling medallion?
Yes – most ceiling medallions are ready to be painted or stained to match your décor. If you plan on painting your ceiling medallion, we recommend purchasing a white one so you have a blank canvas to work with.
How heavy is a ceiling medallion?
They are lighter than you might expect! Most ceiling medallions are plaster cast or made of foam so they attach easily to the ceiling. When properly attached, they have a very small chance of falling off.
thewriteDuffy
At home, April is a mom, wife, and DIY darling. Among other home projects, she helped her husband Dan renovate their 1986 bungalow and is currently designing and decorating the 2023 custom home they are building themselves. Professionally, April is a writer, author, and online marketer with 15 years of experience writing for newspapers and magazines, building online authority websites, and publishing books.
With any project, 80 percent of the work is done in the planning stage. We have simple checklists to help you get organized and make sure you’re prepared for every step along the way. Download them now for FREE: