14. High-Gloss Metallic Gold Leaf Ceiling
Introduction
The “fifth wall” gets the ultimate glamorous treatment in Art Deco design. Gilding a dining room or powder room ceiling in high-gloss metallic gold leaf creates a shimmering canopy of warm light.
What This Idea Means
This design philosophy treats ceilings as reflectors of luxury and intimacy. It envelops the room in a warm, amber glow that flatters lighting and evening dinner guests.
How to Make It
- Ceiling Preparation: Sand the ceiling smooth and paint it with a warm red or ochre base coat (the traditional foundation for gold leaf application).
- Applying Size: Roll or brush metal leaf sizing (adhesive) across the ceiling surface, allowing it to tack up to a sticky, pressure-sensitive finish.
- Laying Gold Leaf: Gently press sheets of genuine or imitation gold leaf onto the sticky surface, smoothing them down with a soft dry brush.
- Sealing: Seal the finished gold leaf ceiling with a clear protective varnish to prevent tarnishing and dust accumulation.
Tips and Variations
- Tip: Dim the overhead chandelier lights after gilding to watch the gold leaf ceiling cast a magical, candle-like amber reflection across the room.
- Variation: Use silver leaf or champagne gold leaf for a cooler, more contemporary metallic ceiling finish.
Needs to Make That Thing
- Genuine or imitation gold leaf sheets and sizing adhesive
- Ochre or red primer base coat paint
- Soft gilding application brushes and lint-free cloths
- Clear protective topcoat varnish
