How to Style a Ceiling | 4 Ways Designers Use the Fifth Wall | Inspired By Emily In Paris

Painted ceilings, often referred to as the fifth wall, are one of the most searched yet misunderstood elements in interior design. Many people look for painted ceiling ideas without knowing how to style them in a way that feels intentional rather than overwhelming. While watching Emily in Paris, I noticed how the ceilings quietly shaped the atmosphere of each room. The colours were soft, considered, and deeply Parisian, creating a backdrop that allowed everything else to settle. In this video, I share how to style a painted ceiling and explain four ways designers use the fifth wall to transform a space. You’ll discover: How soft ceiling colours can balance stronger wall tones, ideal for kitchens, cafés, bathrooms, and walk-in wardrobes Why lighter ceiling colours can lift lower ceilings and change the perceived height of a room How deeper ceiling tones can ground taller spaces and create a sense of intention How painted ceilings enhance architectural features and bring quiet cohesion to a room Styling the fifth wall isn’t about decoration or bold statements. It’s about proportion, light, and restraint. A design decision that works gently in the background, yet changes how a space is experienced. If you’re searching for how to style a painted ceiling, fifth wall interior design ideas, or subtle ways to elevate your home, this video offers a clear and thoughtful starting point.