Early examples of stepped ceilings can still be found in old castles, the residences of noblemen and the homes of the wealthy of past centuries. This was a luxurious decorative element that not everyone could afford. Fortunately, today anyone can enjoy a perfect ceiling made to an original design.
Modern technology allows us to create sophisticated structures and frames to satisfy even the most unusual preferences. Multi-level stretch ceilings can be installed in any type of room, from government institutions, theatres and museums to apartments and country houses. They are usually chosen for their ability to give a room an original and attractive appearance. Assembled by skilled craftspeople, a multi-level stretch ceiling can become a genuine work of art that continues to delight residents and visitors.
In addition to its aesthetic qualities, a PVC-film ceiling has many practical properties. Behind its smooth, neat surface, it can conceal ventilation systems, pipes, cables and even prominent defects or outdated details of the old ceiling. In “difficult” rooms that are too long, narrow, high or poorly lit, a thoughtfully designed ceiling with two or more levels can correct the perceived proportions. This effect is achieved by visually defining different zones without building partition walls. For example, individual workstations can be highlighted in large offices or industrial premises. In shops, sales areas can be distinguished. Multi-level ceilings are particularly useful in loft homes: spatial structure, colour differences and local lighting can define both the areas intended as different “rooms” and their heights. In a standard apartment, a workspace can be separated visually from a sleeping area, or a kitchen from a dining room, and so on. It is important, however, not to exaggerate the height differences between ceiling levels: a difference of 5–12 cm is justified and proportionate.
Three-dimensional relief
For those who enjoy exclusive designs, volumetric frames can be made to reproduce geometric, abstract or organic forms. Such a structure is fitted with a special lighting system and covered with PVC film, resulting in a sculptural ceiling that gives the room an extraordinary, unique look. These ceilings have gained considerable popularity among owners of clubs and exhibition halls.