23 Master Bedroom Tray Ceiling Ideas

Transform your master bedroom from basic to breathtaking with the magic of tray ceilings. These architectural gems add instant drama and sophistication to any space, creating the perfect focal point above your bed.

A well-designed tray ceiling lifts the eye upward, making rooms feel larger and more luxurious. From subtle modern touches to bold statement designs, there’s a tray ceiling style for every taste. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or seeking inspiration for your dream bedroom, these creative ideas will help you take your space from flat to fabulous.

1. Coffered Design

A coffered tray ceiling adds elegant squares or rectangles that sink into your ceiling. Think of it like a waffle pattern that creates depth and visual interest. The sunken squares can be painted the same color as your ceiling or in contrasting shades to make them pop. This classic look works great in both traditional and modern bedrooms.

2. Crown Molding Border

Adding crown molding around your tray ceiling creates a fancy frame effect. The molding gives clean, crisp lines where your walls meet the ceiling. You can choose simple or detailed molding patterns. It’s like putting a beautiful picture frame around your ceiling. This touch makes your bedroom look more expensive and finished.

3. LED Strip Lighting

Hidden LED strips along the edges of your tray ceiling create amazing effects. You can change the colors to match your mood or set a romantic atmosphere. The lights sit behind a small lip in the tray, so you see the glow but not the actual strips. It’s like having your own sunset right in your bedroom!

4. Two-Tone Paint

Paint your tray ceiling in two different colors to make it stand out. Usually, the raised part is lighter while the recessed area is darker. You might use white and gray, or beige and brown. It’s like creating layers with paint. This simple trick makes your ceiling look deeper and more interesting.

5. Metallic Center

Add sparkle to your bedroom by painting the center of your tray ceiling with metallic paint. Gold, silver, or copper paint catches light and creates shine. It’s like having a piece of jewelry on your ceiling. The metallic finish works best when the outer part stays neutral.

6. Wood Beam Pattern

Install wooden beams in a pattern across your tray ceiling. You can arrange them in squares, rectangles, or diagonal lines. The beams can be real wood or faux beams that look like wood. It’s like adding rustic charm overhead. This works especially well in farmhouse or traditional style bedrooms.

7. Wallpapered Inset

Transform your tray ceiling by adding wallpaper to the recessed area. You’ll create instant visual interest without touching the rest of the ceiling. Choose a bold pattern to make a statement, or go with subtle textures that complement your bedroom’s style. This is a great way to add personality without committing to a whole room of wallpaper.

8. Chandelier Focal Point

Make your tray ceiling shine by hanging a stunning chandelier in its center. The recessed area naturally draws attention upward, making it the perfect spot for a eye-catching light fixture. Pick a chandelier that matches your room’s style – crystal for glamour, industrial for modern spaces, or rustic for farmhouse designs.

9. Painted Stripes

Add drama to your tray ceiling with painted stripes. You can go bold with contrasting colors or keep it subtle with tone-on-tone stripes. Paint them horizontally to make the room feel wider, or vertically to create the illusion of more height. It’s an affordable way to add major visual impact to your bedroom.

10. Geometric Design

Create a modern look with geometric patterns on your tray ceiling. You can use paint, molding, or a combination of both to make triangles, hexagons, or other shapes. This style works especially well in contemporary bedrooms and adds an artistic element overhead. Start with simple shapes if you’re DIYing this project.

11. Gold Leaf Accent

Add luxury to your bedroom with gold leaf details on your tray ceiling. Apply it to the edges of the tray or create a pattern in the recessed area. The metallic finish catches light beautifully and makes your room feel more expensive. You can DIY this look with gold leaf sheets from craft stores.

12. Rope Lighting

Install hidden rope lighting around the edges of your tray ceiling for a soft, ambient glow. The light creates a floating effect and adds warmth to your bedroom. You can even get smart LED strips that change colors or dim with your phone. It’s perfect for setting a relaxing mood in the evening.

13. Textured Paint

Add depth to your tray ceiling with textured paint techniques. You can use special rollers or brushes to create patterns like swirls, stippling, or a subtle orange peel effect. This affordable option adds visual interest without major construction. The texture also helps hide minor ceiling imperfections.

14. Navy and White

Create drama with a navy blue tray ceiling surrounded by crisp white trim. This classic color combo gives your bedroom a sophisticated look. The dark navy draws your eyes up while the white molding provides clean contrast. It’s perfect for both traditional and modern bedrooms.

15. Stenciled Pattern

Transform your tray ceiling with decorative stencils. Choose from geometric shapes, damask prints, or delicate florals. You’ll need patience to line up the pattern, but the results are worth it. This DIY-friendly option lets you create a custom look for less money than wallpaper.

16. Recessed Panels

Install rectangular or square panels within your tray ceiling for added architectural detail. These panels create shadows and depth that make your ceiling more interesting. You can paint them the same color as the ceiling or use contrasting shades for more impact.

17. Faux Wood Finish

Get the warmth of wood without the weight or cost. Special painting techniques can make your tray ceiling look like natural wood grain. Use browns, tans, and amber shades to create realistic wood effects. It’s especially striking in rustic or farmhouse-style bedrooms.

18. Star Light Pattern

Turn your ceiling into a starry night with strategically placed LED lights. Small recessed lights create twinkling effects across the tray ceiling. You can control the brightness and even add color-changing options. It’s perfect for creating a romantic or relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom.

19. Venetian Plaster

Create a luxurious look with Venetian plaster on your tray ceiling. This smooth, polished finish adds depth and shimmer that changes as light moves across it. You’ll love how it makes your bedroom feel like a high-end hotel suite. The natural variations in the plaster create subtle movement that draws your eye upward.

20. Double Border Design

Add extra drama with two decorative borders in your tray ceiling. The outer border might feature crown molding, while the inner border showcases a different pattern or color. This double-frame effect makes your ceiling look more expensive and custom-built. You can paint each border a different shade to create even more visual interest.

21. Fabric Inlay

Transform your tray ceiling with elegant fabric panels. You’ll need to stretch and secure fabric across the recessed area for a soft, cozy look. This technique helps absorb sound and adds texture to your room. Choose silks for glamour or linens for a casual feel. The fabric can match your bedding or curtains to tie the room together.

22. Cloud Mural

Turn your ceiling into a dreamy sky with a painted cloud mural. You’ll feel like you’re sleeping under open skies with soft, wispy clouds floating above. This works especially well in light blues and whites. The mural can be realistic or abstract, depending on your style. It’s perfect for creating a peaceful, relaxing bedroom atmosphere.

23. Antique Mirror Insert

Install antique mirror panels in your tray ceiling for instant glamour. The aged finish of these mirrors reflects light while adding vintage charm. You’ll get beautiful sparkle without the harsh glare of new mirrors. This treatment makes your room feel bigger and brighter while adding a touch of old-world elegance.