How to Decorate a Room with a Tall Ceiling: 7 Stylish Ideas

Having high ceilings can make your home feel grand and open, but it can also be tricky to decorate. While tall ceilings offer a lot of potential, they can sometimes leave a room feeling cold or empty if not designed properly. If you're wondering how to make the most of your tall ceilings, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re looking to add warmth, coziness, or style, we’ve got 7 stylish ideas to help you decorate your tall-ceilinged room and bring out its full potential.

Luxury Scandinavian-Glam style living room with a large artwork on the tall wall was designed by virtual interior designer, Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co. The 3D rendering created by Stuccco.

1. Using Artwork to Enhance Tall Ceilings

To make the most of your tall walls, choose vertical artwork or gallery walls to fill the space creatively. Large, oversized pieces of art can draw the eye upward, making the room feel grand while keeping it cohesive. Avoid using too many small pieces, which can make the room feel cluttered and disjointed.

A good rule of thumb is the “rule of thirds.” Divide the wall into three parts – the bottom third for furniture, the middle third for artwork, and the top third can be left bare. This helps balance the room’s height. Don’t feel restricted by the rule, though—experiment with different placements to find what feels right!

A modern home with high ceiling that comes with a Mid-century modern style decoration with a sputnik chandelier which was designed by a virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co. The 3D rendering created by Stuccco.

2. How to Use Lighting to Complement High Ceilings

When decorating a room with high ceilings, layered lighting is key. Use a combination of chandeliers, pendant lights, and wall sconces to create depth and warmth. Statement fixtures like a grand chandelier can bring the ceiling height into focus and add an elegant touch.

For everyday lighting, consider floor lamps or tall, sculptural lighting pieces to keep the space functional and beautiful. Dimmers are also a great addition to adjust the mood depending on the time of day or occasion.

A Desert Rustic style primary bedroom with beams on the vaulted ceiling designed by a virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co.

3. Adding Beams for Character in Rooms with High Ceilings

Exposed wooden beams are a perfect way to add architectural interest to tall ceilings. While often associated with rustic design, beams can also complement modern or contemporary spaces by bringing warmth and texture to an otherwise open area.

Beams not only add character, but they also visually break up the height of the ceiling, making the room feel cozier. You can find beams in various styles and finishes to fit the aesthetic you’re aiming for, from industrial to farmhouse to modern chic.

A mid-century modern style foyer with an accent wall designed by a virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co.

4. Creating an Accent Wall in Tall Rooms

An accent wall can be a dramatic way to enhance a room with high ceilings. Try using bold colors, textured wallpaper, or unique materials like exposed brick or wood to add personality. By drawing attention to one wall, you can create a focal point that balances the height of the room.

This DIY project can easily transform your space without a major remodel. Use the height of the room to your advantage by creating a vertical stripe effect, or consider applying large-scale wallpaper patterns that add depth and dimension to the space.

A Japandi style great room with draperies on the tall walls designed by a virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co. The 3D rendering created by Stuccco.

5. Choosing the Right Draperies for High Ceilings

Floor-to-ceiling draperies are a must for tall rooms. Not only do they add a sense of luxury and sophistication, but they also make the room feel more cohesive. Opt for long, flowing drapes in light fabrics for a classic look, or go bold with a vibrant color to make your windows stand out.

Make sure to hang your draperies high, close to the ceiling, and let them reach the floor for maximum elegance. Avoid short draperies, as they will make the room look smaller and less polished.

Desert Breeze style reading nook space in the dining room with high ceiling shelves designed by a virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co.

6. Maximizing Storage Space with Tall Ceiling Shelves

Tall ceilings provide the perfect opportunity to incorporate built-in bookshelves or floating shelves for additional storage. You can also add a stylish rolling ladder to access higher shelves, giving your room a charming, vintage library vibe.

Whether you’re displaying books, art, or decorative items, shelves that extend to the ceiling help utilize every inch of your vertical space while also creating a unique design element. This practical approach helps to maximize your storage without sacrificing style.

A California casual style foyer with a framed tapestry designed by a virtual interior designer Joshua Jones of JJones Design Co.

7. Decorating Tall Walls with Tapestries

Modern tapestries or woven wall hangings can add texture and warmth to a tall space without feeling outdated. Choose light colors or minimalistic designs to complement the room’s décor, or go bold with intricate patterns if you want your tapestry to be the star of the space.

Tapestries are an excellent way to bring in a personal touch. Whether it’s a piece you found while traveling or a unique design that speaks to you, tapestries soften the space and add a cozy, artistic flair to rooms with tall ceilings.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to decorating rooms with tall ceilings, the possibilities are endless. Whether you choose statement lighting, grand artwork, or cozy curtains, the most important thing is to create a space that feels right for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold ideas, and remember – the best designs are the ones that make you feel at home.

If you have any further questions or need personalized design advice, feel free to reach out with Ask Joshua!