Coffered & tray ceilings play a major role in adding depth and detail to a room. Both these types of ceilings include feature recessed ceiling sections above deep molding or an arrangement of box beams. Although both have some common characteristics & decorative options, there are some differences as well.
Let us understand in detail about coffered ceiling & tray ceiling.
What Are Coffered Ceilings?
These are represented by dropped beams in a series which often look like a form of a geometric grid. Such a grid is generally rectangular, though it can take other shapes like octangular or in the shape of a hexagon. The chief characteristic of coffered ceilings is crossed beam pattern & infill patterns which span between these.
There are several reasons for the popularity of coffered ceilings. Some of the benefits are:
- Variety in Designs – These are generally made from concrete, metal, and engineered wood. The ornamental elements and shape of coffers can be varied as well. Such a ceiling can be in the shape of a dome or flat as per design.
- Lighting Design Options – This kind of ceiling allows a variety of illumination solutions that add to the aesthetic appeal of the space while enhancing the functionality.
- Enhance the Aesthetic appeal of the room – Coffered ceilings help in enhancing the visual appeal of a space. These are especially suitable for large and spacious rooms.
What are Tray Ceilings?
Tray ceilings help in creating a ‘frame’ type of effect. This enhances the geometry of any space. Tray ceilings are usually in the form of a single raised section of the ceiling. This is usually in the center part of a dropped border which runs along the room perimeter. Generally, the tray ceilings reflect the room itself. However, they can also be diamond or oval, depending on the architectural style. Tray ceilings are mainly used to showcase lighting and ceiling murals.
Tray ceilings offer several benefits as well – some of these are:
- Enhances Height of Ceiling – Any home with average walls does appear tall with the help of the tray ceiling. This is because the central section of the room gets an additional depth which is quite necessary.
- Offers Additional Volume – With tray ceilings, the room appears tall and the overall size of the space is also large. The room gets a lot of additional volume.
- Designing Flexibility – This kind of ceiling offers additional designing flexibility when it is about decorating the room. It is possible to have fun and experiment with borders, colors, lighting, and decorative molding as well.
Whether you select coffered ceilings or tray ceilings – you will need professional installers to get the job done for you.
Coffered Ceilings vs Tray Ceilings – How Are They Different
You might find many similarities in detailed articulation, but the conceptual foundation is different. There are many differences between the two – some quite obvious, others a lot subtle.
- Styling Differences – Coffered ceilings make the interiors look personal and intimate as they have an effect of breaking the interior space. Tray ceilings provide a grand architectural style. The rooms look quite open and large in such ceilings.
- Designing Differences – Coffered ceilings have broad material expressions with the installation of a box beam ceiling. These can be composed of glass, steel, and wood since this works well with beam width & grid dimensions. Tray ceilings, on the other hand, are wrapped in plaster and drywall. These are then finished with the off-the-shelf flavor of crown molding.
- Usage – Coffered ceilings are ideal for kitchens, living rooms, and theatre rooms. Tray ceilings are good for dining rooms, entryways, and board rooms, though these can be used in other places as per the recommendations of the architect and the interiors.
Coffered ceiling have a recessed section which offers a boxlike look, but you do get a similar type of effect with the crisscrossed arrangement of boards. But such materials do not provide the look of the tray ceiling. If the beam width is varied, it can alter the look of the tray and coffered ceilings. However, tray ceilings are suitable for widths that are more than 10 inches.
Whether it is a coffered ceiling or tray ceiling for your property, it does need advanced carpentry skills. We offer top-quality services, catering to the needs of our clients with professional installation and other advanced services. Get in touch for any requirements – we offer DT Mouldings finish carpentry and coffered ceiling installation services & a lot more.
