Take Height: 7 Ways to Visually "Lift" the Ceiling in a Khrushchyovka

The height of walls in khrushchyovka flats of different series is between 2.48 and 2.7 meters, so the issue of preserving space in such homes is especially acute: with improper decoration, the ceiling literally "falls" on the heads of flat owners. To avoid this unpleasant effect, we've collected the most reasonable ways to visually "lift" the ceiling.

1. Choose Cool and Light Tones

There are several tricks that help "lift" the ceiling by combining colors. The simplest option is to paint the walls and ceiling white: due to the absence of a clear boundary, the room will look more spacious.

Our vision is such that a cool and light ceiling compared to the walls visually lifts up. Therefore, another approach is to choose a cooler color for the ceiling than for the walls. A white-gray or soft pearl tone will work.

2. Run Stripes Along the Walls

It's no secret that vertical patterns on wallpaper also have the property of increasing wall height. This works for both thin and wide stripes, provided they are sufficiently contrasted in color. If you don't want to overload the interior with frequent patterns, run one or more wide stripes from floor to ceiling.

3. Decorate Walls with Vertical Decor

You can lift the ceiling in a khrushchyovka using decorative techniques. Decorate the walls with vertical accessories—such as paintings or photo collages. Avoid horizontal elements in the finish—they make walls wider and shorter, and the ceiling lower.

4. Hang Small Light Fixtures

In apartments with low ceilings, heavy chandeliers are inappropriate. For the main light source in a khrushchyovka, choose flat horizontal or thin pendant models, floor standing torcheres, and wall sconces. You won't want to use recessed spotlights—they can only be installed in apartments with suspended ceilings, which visibly reduce wall height.

5. Avoid Medium-Height Furniture

When buying furniture for an apartment with a low ceiling, follow a simple rule: the cabinet should either be very tall and reach the ceiling, or very low and unobtrusive—medium-height furniture visually lowers the ceiling.

A good alternative is to choose lightweight suspended shelves or open storage systems for clothing wardrobes. If you're not ready to get rid of old furniture that's not the right height, place decorative boxes on top of the cabinet or order additional sections made from the same wood as the wardrobes.

6. Use Mirrors

Hanging mirrors is one of the most effective ways to increase space. Vertical-shaped mirrors can help make walls look taller.

Another original way to increase ceiling height is to tile it with mirror tiles—but such a renovation cannot be called either easy or budget-friendly: it requires high-quality materials and professional help.

If replacing the ceiling is not part of your plans, cover the junctions with walls using mirrored tape. For this, both thin mirror pieces and decorative self-adhesive film will work.

7. "Extend" Walls Using Paint

When painting walls, partially use the ceiling space: in this way, it becomes slightly smaller in area, but the walls visually "grow". If you don't want to use gypsum board for a smooth wall transition, use ceiling trim—a regular gypsum molding painted in the wall color.