Expert: Jennifer Taylor Wojcik - 2/13/2009

Question
We have an octangular shaped tray ceiling in our 16 x 14 ft dining room. The flat portion of the ceiling which is 9 feet high has a 2 ft wide portion all the way around the room, the recessed portion which is 10 ft high has cream colored crown moulding.  I have two options I think in which way to paint the room.  I would like to know what difference in the feel of the room they would make. Option l paint the flat portion same color as wall (a mid tone tan), as well as the one foot vertical part of the ceiling. Then leave the crown moulding cream as well as the recessed portion of the tray.  Option two, same as option one but paint the vertical part of the ceiling cream same as the crown moulding and recessed part of the tray.  In your opinion which would look better.  The room has lots of windows and is the in south side of the house so lighting is no problem. I am thinking of hanging a large crystal chandelier to add some sparkle.  I am looking  for an elegant, intimate feeling room. The room has walnut flooring.  What are your thoughts?  Thanks

Answer
Hi Ava,

Thanks for writing and for your question.  

Either option will look great.  Option 1 will be a very tailored, smart look; option 2 would also look great, but would make the molding look much more prominent than option 1:  it will make the molding look wider.

You can't lose here.  Adding a chandelier is a wonderful option.

Best,
Jenny