5 feature ceiling design trends you can look up to

Sculptform works closely with clients on a daily basis, our team’s main goal is to help architects and designers create a feature ceiling within their budget. This constant flow of incredible projects allows us a unique perspective on the state of design in 2018, and we have noticed a few trends emerging. Below are five ceiling design trends involving battens which we have seen growing in popularity, and an example of how our Click-on batten system has helped a design team implement that design goal.

Curved Ceilings

Creating curved lines in walls and feature ceilings is an ever-enduring trend but has experienced a particular resurgence in recent years. The juxtaposition between the traditional straight lines of a structure and the flow of a beautiful curve creates a back-and-forth which draws in the eye.

Green Square Community Precinct

A bold example of how Sculptform’s Click-on batten system can be used to create linear textures on a curved ceiling is Joynton Avenue Community Centre at Green Square Community Precinct. The arches which are prominently displayed as they protrude from the building are lined internally with Click-on battens in Blackbutt. The tight radius required proved not to be an issue, using the systems unique curving mounting track to match the exact curve of the arches.

Architect: Peter Stutchbury Architecture | Photographer: Michael Nicholson

Multi-Angled Batten Sequences

Traditionally, batten sequences using Sculptform’s Click-on batten system create linear textures which create a clean, straight finish to a wall or ceiling. A trend which has grown in popularity recently is the use of multi-angles batten sequences. The use of battens at such precarious angles creates a sense of intrigue and makes a ceiling an active participant in the presence of a room.

Central South Yarra

The lobby of the Central South Yarra apartments features a stunning feature ceiling using Click-on battens in Burnt Ash. Triangular shapes are placed at different angles to create a sense of movement, emphasised by integrated lights.

Architect: Plus Architecture | Photographer: Peter Clarke

Alternating Batten Directions

The powerful straight lines created by batten systems are often used on a project to help a space appear longer. This function can also be harnessed to create intricate cross-over patterns with the battens. Rather than using battens which all run in the same direction, designers have begun to change the orientation of the battens within the same ceiling, highlighting the area underneath the differentiating section.

Vision Australia

The amazing offices of Vision Australia apply the concept of using opposing orientations to full effect. Aluminium battens powder coated black and white run in different directions over the ceiling, highlighting certain areas of interest. A presentation area is a particular feature emphasized with this method, creating subconscious division between areas of the open plan office.

Architect: Hot Black Design | Photographer: Nicole Reed

Dome Shaped Battens

Dome-shaped battens are a welcome change for designers from traditional block shaped battens. The convex shape of the batten itself gives the straight lines of the batten system an interesting aspect which immediately softens the aesthetic.

Willinga Park Stables

In the Willinga Park stables, dome battens are used on the ceiling as a secondary feature to compliment the stunning Tongue and Groove Cladding on the main structure. A masterclass in spatial composition, areas of the interior space are highlighted using dome battens which immediately contrast the straight lines of the cladding arching over the entire project.

Architect: Cox Architecture Canberra | Photographer: Ginette Snow