The false ceiling design trend has been in India for a while. Needless to say, ceiling design has never been as wide and varied as it is right now. Homeowners today have numerous options to choose from. However, too many options can be confusing at times. Every homeowner, thus, needs to understand their individual preferences when getting a ceiling done. Before going over the designs, let us do a quick recap on what is a false ceiling.

What Is a False Ceiling?

simple-false-ceiling-design-for-bedroom-with-red-accent-wall
Give your room a stylish look with false ceilings

So, what is a false ceiling? A false ceiling is basically a type of ceiling that is designed to fit below the original ceiling. A false ceiling design is usually suspended by wood or metal frames and the illusion it brings of a lower ceiling, sometimes with parts of the original ceiling on display, has earned it the moniker ‘dropped ceiling’.

The construction of a false ceiling can be done in any home, irrespective of size. This type of ceiling is usually mounted at a minimum distance of 8 inches from the original ceiling.

Also Read: Which Type of Ceiling Is the Best for Your Stunning Home?

Check Out These Popular Materials

The material of your false ceiling design should be chosen based on what you want out of your false ceiling. It is also important to check out the ceiling price beforehand, so you can calculate the expenditure. And if you are looking for ideas for the types of ceiling design ideas to choose, browse through this list!

#1: Get a Visually Airy Gypsum False Ceiling

false-ceiling-design-for-dining-room-in-gypsum
Use gypsum for lightweight false ceilings

Gypsum comes from calcium and is used in the construction of lightweight ceilings. They usually come in the form of boards that are then hung off from the ceiling with iron or wooden frameworks and painted on.

Ceiling Cost Per Sq Ft.: ₹50–₹150

#2: Get a Plaster-of-Paris or POP False Ceiling Design for Durable Interiors

pop-false-ceiling-design-for-hall-in-brown
Use POP if you need long-lasting and weather resistant ceilings

Plaster of Paris or POP false ceiling is the most common variety of ceilings that are available in India. And for good reason; this type of POP ceiling design for a hall is known for its insulating properties and varying weather conditions.

Cost Per Sq. Ft.  ₹50–₹150

#3: Soothe Your Room With a Wooden Ceiling Design

best-false-ceiling-design-in-wood-for-dining-room-with-lighting
Adds a warm touch to your room

Due to its natural grain and texture, wood as a false ceiling design idea is quite popular. It’s on the pricier side, which is why you’d most likely see it in residential buildings rather than large-scale commercial projects.


False Ceiling Cost Per Sq. Ft.:  ₹80–₹650

The first two types of false ceiling options are more common choices in comparison. Refer to the below table for a consolidated overview of all the three materials. 

MaterialsPriceMaintenanceFire-proofWaterproof
Gypsum₹50 to ₹150LowYesYes
Plaster of Paris₹50 to ₹150LowYesYes
Wood₹80 to ₹650LowNoNo

How Is False Ceiling Design Cost Calculated?

Multiple factors are involved while calculating the false ceiling cost per sq. ft. These include:

  • Design: Picking more complex designs will make it costlier
  • Size: The price is low for a larger ceiling area as the materials required can be purchased at wholesale prices in bulk
  • Quality: If you go for high-quality materials, it is pricier. But as high-quality materials are durable, it has a higher return on investment (ROI). Plus, the durability is highly affected by the quality of the false ceiling  
  • Availability: If the materials you are using are easily available in the market, transportation and logistic costs can be cut
  • Additional cost: This includes the cost of finishes, fittings, cutting, lighting, accents, etc

Types of False Ceiling Designs

We give you a rundown on both classic and trendy designs that can fit your home and help you decide what type of false ceiling you should opt for.

#1: Experiment With a Single-Layered False Ceiling

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This false ceiling design will draw the eye upwards immediately

Want to jazz up your false ceiling design without going the whole hog? This single-layer ceiling will work great for you. This adds dimension to your room. If you think that a design will overwhelm your space, single-layered is the best ceiling design for you. If you need more character to this ceiling design, add colours, shapes, textures and lighting.

#2: Stack Up With a Multilayered False Ceiling Design

multi-layered-false-ceiling-design-for-living-room
Open up new avenues for adding lighting

If you are looking for the best false ceiling design for a hall, layering is the way to go. Layering can always help provide a feeling of grandeur and open up new ways to experiment with colours, lighting and textures. Layers are a great way to innovate with an already versatile medium to create a completely personalised ceiling design. It can also create the illusion of a bigger room.

#3: Create an Elaborate False Ceiling With Plus-Minus POP

plus-minus-pop-in-dining-room
Factor in existing decor plans for this one

Constructed completely out of POP, this relatively new ceiling design option is all about protruding designs rather than tucking it all in. This ceiling is more on the elaborate side, so be sure to factor in decor plans and the amount of space you have available.

#4: Add a Coffered False Ceiling Design for Drama

coffered-design-with-lights
Create the illusion of higher ceilings with this false ceiling design

Coffers are sunken square or boxy panels that are fixed into a ceiling. Aside from instantly bringing drama into a space, this ceiling design also creates the illusion of a higher ceiling height and multiple dimensions within one room.

False Ceiling Shapes to Consider

A POP false ceiling design is popular as it can be moulded into any shape on demand. However, there are other materials that can also be shaped to one’s desire. Here are some examples of shapes that have proven why they are on the popular list.

#1: Box in Your Ceiling Design

box-shaped-chessboard-patterned-false-ceiling-design-for-hall
Make these unique box designs with POP

A boxed ceiling with recessed lights attached to them can be the best false ceiling design option for you as it looks unique due to its geometric pattern.

#2: Save Space With a Peripheral False Ceiling Design

white-peripheral-false-ceiling-in-blue-bedroom
This design allows space for a chandelier with peripheral false ceiling

This minimal design runs along the corners of the room and is perfect for low-ceiling homes. You can also find space for a chandelier or pendant lights in this design.

#3: Flaunt a Geometric Ceiling Design

geometric-design-for-living-room-with-blue-sofas
Use geometric designs for a stylish edge

This false ceiling design for hall requires suspended panels for each piece that is put together. Needless to say, this design has a stylish edge like no other.

#4: Amp It Up With Intricate Latticework

ceiling-design-in-lattice-for-dining-room-with-pooja-unit
The intricate lattice design glams up the room

Latticework adds a subtle demarcation to this space. Not to mention it is capable of amping up the aesthetic of your room significantly.

#5: Decorate Your False Ceiling With Wooden Slats 

false-ceiling-design-for-living-room-with-wooden-slats-and-blue-sofas
Add a sophisticated Indian touch to your room with wooden slats

One of the most sought-after designs in India, a false ceiling design with wooden slats is great for its insulating abilities. If you are ready to shell out for your ceiling design, this is a great option to pick.

#6: Balance With an Inverted Cove Ceiling Design

inverted-cove-ceiling-design-for-bedroom-with-lighting-and-accent-wall
This design can work in every room

A great option to reduce high ceilings, the inverted cove works well in every room and is perfect for ambient lighting. You can also find space for a chandelier in this design.

#7: Simple and Minimal False Ceiling Design

minimal-false-ceiling-design-for-dining-room
Beauty in simplicity

When space is scarce, an intricate false ceiling can make the room look even smaller. In such cases, it is best to opt for a simple and minimal false ceiling design. You can add spotlights to elevate the look.

Advantages and Disadvantages of False Ceiling Designs:

We understand that you could still be on the fence whether you should go for false ceilings. Here is a consolidated table about the advantages and disadvantages of these designs to help you figure out your stance:

Advantages of a False CeilingDisadvantages of a False Ceiling
A false ceiling creates great acoustics. This makes it a great design treatment for living rooms, home theaters and AV roomsIt requires expert precision to install and design false ceilings
It hides wires and pipes easilyIf not done properly, it can present the risk of fixtures falling off
It is great for balancing your room height if you have a higher ceilingIt is not a good option for homes which have low-ceilings. You need to have a ceiling height higher than 11 feet
Home insulation becomes easier. In colder regions, it traps air which helps maintain temperature. In hotter weather, it optimises the air conditioner by trapping cold airIt needs constant maintenance as compared to traditional ceilings, which means durability is comparatively lesser

What Is the Ideal Place to Install a False Ceiling?

There is no thumb rule regarding where you can install a false ceiling design but here are some of the popular options:

#1: Experiment With a False Ceiling Design for Living Room

false-ceiling-design-for-living-room-with-lighting-and-blue-sofas
Welcome guests with a pleasant sight

A false ceiling design for a living room makes for a grand entrance and creates the illusion of vertical space, making the room look instantly bigger. While selecting a false ceiling for your living room, keep a budget in mind and stick to it while choosing the design.

#2: Amp Up Your Bedroom With a False Ceiling Design

ceiling-design-for-bedroom-with-geometric-false-ceiling-and-accent-wall
Add drama to your bedroom

Experiment with a patterned ceiling design in your bedroom and opt for a stunning look without compromising on comfort or cosiness.

#3: Enrich the Kids’ Room With a Playful False Ceiling Design

cloud-shaped-ceiling-for-kids-room-with-lighting
Experiment with shapes for your kids’ room

Let your playful side come out while designing your kid’s bedroom. Experiment with shapes, design and lighting when it comes to the room of your little ones.

#4: Emphasise on Ample Lighting in the Kitchen

false-ceiling-design-for-kitchen-with-spotlights-and-patterned-dado
Keep it offbeat to make a statement

Not one for the safe players, a false ceiling design in your kitchen is a sure fire way to add style. It converts a task-oriented space into one that scores points for offbeat design. Not only does it look fancy, but it also provides additional lighting without using wall or countertop space.

#5: Introduce Grandeur to the Dining Room

new-ceiling-design-for-dining-room-with-chandelier-and-antique-furniture
Match the dining table with grand ceiling options

Lowering the ceiling makes for a cosy atmosphere, making the dining experience a lot more personal and enjoyable. In most cases, the ceiling mimics the material of the dining table to provide a continuation of design in the room!

#6: Light Up Your Pooja Room

best-ceiling-design-for-pooja-room
 A minimal false ceiling design with energy-conserving LED lighting

Pooja rooms may not have the same space that we spare for a bedroom or a dining area. However, a well-lit mandir is still a necessity in most houses. Thus, we recommend getting ceiling lights to reduce overheating and optimally using the space to light up your pooja room. 

Things To Consider While Investing in a False Ceiling Design

  • Ease of Installation – Opt for materials that are easier to install and do not require skilled labour
  • Fire Resistance – Your false ceiling material should be fire-resistant for added safety
  • Sound Isolation – If you live in a city, try to choose a false ceiling material that can isolate outside sound
  • Durability – Choose durable and long-lasting materials for your false ceiling
  • Economy – Keep your budget in mind while investing in a false ceiling
  • Versatility – Some false ceiling materials can be moulded into different shapes and patterns

We hope these stunning false ceiling design ideas inspired you!

Also Read: All You Need to Know About Designer False Ceiling Is Here

How Can Livspace Help You? 

We hope you found our ideas useful! If you want beautiful interiors for your home, then look no further. Book an online consultation with Livspace today. Have any thoughts or suggestions you’d like to share with us? We’re all ears! Drop us a line at editor@livspace.com.

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Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. Talk to our designer for more details on pricing and availability.