Most people ignore the ceilings in their interior design and fail to test their exceptional influence on room aesthetics. But is it just the appearance that is affected by a false ceiling? No, all false ceilings types provide thermal, moisture and sound insulation as well, apart from just regulating air, hiding wires, saving energy and providing fire-safety benefits.

Let’s find out everything there is to know about different false ceiling types and answer some frequently asked questions about them.

First of all, what is a false ceiling?

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False ceilings are worth every penny


A false ceiling, also called a “dropped ceiling,” is like a second ceiling hung below the real one. It’s usually attached to a frame made of wood or metal. This creates the illusion of a lower ceiling, and sometimes you can even see parts of the original ceiling peeking through. It improves appearance and provides thermal insulation, fire safety and energy conservation. And the best part? You can have one in any home, no matter how big or small!

Let’s find you yours!

Types of false ceilings by design

False ceiling types #1: Peripheral false ceiling

A peripheral false ceiling is a type of suspended ceiling design where the new ceiling is installed only around the edges of the room, leaving the centre open. These are economical options when you want to do strategic lighting and hide the wires that hang after redoing the electrical layout. Typically made from gypsum board, PVC panels, or metal tiles, the depth of its drop-down can vary depending on the desired effect and available space.

Made of: Gypsum board, PVC panels

False ceiling types #2: Island false ceiling or double layer false ceiling

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Island in the sky? Nope, just ceilings!

Imagine a “floating island” hanging below the regular ceiling in a room. That’s essentially what an island or suspended false ceiling is! Unlike a full false ceiling that covers the entire space, an island ceiling focuses on specific areas. This kind of ceiling makes the walls appear taller than they actually are, and thereby gives a rendition of high ceilings. It also provides heat and sound insulation and thus, conserves energy in your home.

Made of: Ggypsum board, fabric panels

False ceiling types #3: Single-layered geometric false ceiling

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Go geometric!

Geometric false ceiling types, apart from being incredibly appealing, are a better version of an island ceiling. This is because they provide a more thorough protection from drastic temperature changes. Also, these provide a better scope for changing electrical layouts or achieving layered lighting design that is meant to conserve energy. Additionally, these offer better protection from fire as they cover a substantial part of the original ceiling.

Made of: Gypsum boards

Also Read: 20 Bedroom Ceiling Design Ideas for You

False ceiling types #4: Coffered false ceiling

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Reduce noise and refine your space with coffered ceilings

A coffered false ceiling features a series of sunken squares or recessed panels often arranged in a grid surrounded by mouldings or beams. Such ceilings reduce noise levels and improve the acoustics of your music room or home theatre. They also create an illusion of a taller ceiling that can make a room appear more spacious.

Made of: POP, wooden runners, MDF, metal (if there are no mouldings)

False ceiling types #5: Plus-minus false ceiling

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A playful design sure to intrigue the visitors

“Plus” and “minus” refer to relative heights within the false ceiling. Imagine a design where some sections of the false ceiling are lowered (minus) compared to the main level, creating recessed areas. Other sections might protrude outwards (plus) at specific points, forming raised levels.

Made of: Gypsum

False ceiling types #6: Parallel false ceiling

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Parallel false ceilings are an ode to sleek minimalism

A parallel false ceiling is a type of suspended ceiling system where the panels run parallel to each other, typically along the length or width of the room. They can be integrated with a variety of lighting options, such as recessed spotlights, cove lighting, and pendant lights.

Types of false ceilings by materials

False ceilings are usually made of POP and gypsum boards. Unless there are moulding designs on the ceilings which are done in POP, false ceilings are usually made with gypsum boards.

False ceiling types #7: Plaster of Paris false ceiling design

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Your kids are sure to adore this ceiling

If you’re wondering how false ceilings offer safety and insulation, the answer is in the materials that are used to make them. For example, POP designs are highly resistant to fire and have excellent thermal insulation properties. It is a better option than gypsum (which basically turns to POP upon dehydration) when you need a rather mouldable false ceiling design.

False ceiling type #8: Gypsum false ceilings

Gypsum ceiling designs are a neat-looking, stronger and more durable material than the Plaster of Paris false ceiling designs. However, gypsum has the same insulation properties and can be installed in an eco-friendly manner as it doesn’t produce a lot of toxic dust during the process. Since it attaches to the ceilings using metal frames, it is easier to install than Plaster of Paris false ceiling design which requires moulding skills.

Also Read: 7 Advantages of Gypsum Ceiling to Convince You to Opt for a Gypsum False Ceiling

False ceiling types #9: PVC false ceiling design

Another highly durable material that is also the easiest to install is PVC. It has similar insulation properties and isn’t a brittle material. Consequently, PVC ceilings are easy to install and safe at the same time. Since this material is also resistant to moisture and weathering, it is suitable to make balcony ceilings as well.

False ceiling types #10: Wooden false ceiling

Wooden false ceilings are expensive but worth all your money. They are best for rooms with high ceilings as they reduce the perception of height. They can make your large rooms appear cosier and more intimate. The reason why wood can achieve this is because wood is easier to notice compared to white ceilings. White ceilings do the opposite, they make small rooms appear larger.

False ceiling types #11: Plywood false ceiling

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Marine plywood: built to last

Marine plywood is the best choice for false ceiling designs that resemble wood. Known for its strength, durability and moisture resistance, well-maintained plywood false ceiling designs can last up to 20 years.

So, which type of false ceiling is THE best?

The best type of false ceiling mostly depends on your requirements and taste, but when it comes to materials, gypsum ceiling designs are the best for home interiors. They are

  • Easy to install
  • Don’t burn a hole in your pocket
  • Control the transmission of heat and sound through your ceiling
  • Aesthetically appealing

Is a false ceiling good for homes?

Yes, a false ceiling is a good aesthetical option to consider for your home interiors. It can uplift the look of your home by making the ceiling look higher and the room look bigger, brighter and cosier.

Which false ceiling is long-lasting?

All false ceilings are long-lasting, as they are built not only for aesthetics but also for practical uses like heat and soundproofing. Hence, materials like gypsum, PVC and POP that are used for ceilings, are highly durable and in fact, make your homes safer.

What will be the cost of false ceilings?

The cost of false ceilings can be approximately calculated if you know the surface area of the ceiling that needs to be built. Simply multiply the rate of your choice of material per sq. ft. with this area to get the base cost. Additionally, you should account for the cost of finishing that your ceiling will require (paint/polish), and any electrical changes and fittings (including cove lights) in the cost of your false ceiling design.

Also Read: Unveiling The Mystery: Calculating False Ceiling Costs Made Easy!

Is a false ceiling expensive?

The right answer is that a false ceiling isn’t always expensive. Since its price is calculated per sq. ft., you can opt for minimal designs that serve the same purpose in your room for less money. Some basic types of ceiling designs that cost less would be peripheral and island types. Given that the size of your new ceiling is in your hands, it will be easy to control your expenditure.

How can Livspace help you?

Our team of expert designers can help you create your dream homes with bespoke designs catering to your unique needs. Found inspiration from one of these images?

Reach out to us to make them a reality!

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If you want beautiful interiors for your home, then look no further. Book an online consultation with Livspace today.