Top - Down Design

Ceilings can transform a space with minimal effort and expense. 

 In early American homes, low ceilings helped keep spaces warm, even if the price was a claustrophobia. During the Victorian era of the 19th century, high ceilings - at least 9 feet high and often higher - were embellished, integrating hand - crafted cast - plaster ornaments, stenciling, and other decorative treatments. These kinds of details, when they're painstakingly preserved are coveted today. 

Factory buildings and warehouses in New York's downtown manufacturing district were converted to loft - style apartments starting in the 1950s, a grittier industrial look took hold, leaving ceiling ductwork and beams exposed. Heights remained in vogue throughout the 1980s and '90s but fancier vaults, peaks, and arches emerged as McMansions became the rage. As concerns grew high about the high cost of energy the reality of heating and cooling all that extra space reduced the appeal of high ceilings.

Replacing a plain ceiling with any visually interesting element provides a stunning differentiator for sellers competing for buyer attention. 

Flip through more than two dozen examples in the slideshow at https://magazine.realtor/#!%23slideshowCNid:142644