Numerous renowned architects have incorporated artistic elements into their ceiling designs to enrich their projects. In this blog post, we will explore the artistic aspects of design and examine architectural projects that inspire with their unique ceiling aesthetics.

The Architect's Canvas: Ceilings

Architecture is a multidisciplinary practice where the artistic aspect often predominates. For an architect to present a good piece of work, it's crucial for them to have developed themselves in various fields and carry an artist's sensitivity. The delicate touch of architects who approach design with an artist's soul can be easily distinguished by those with good taste. Being understood by refined individuals is one of the most beautiful rewards an architect could dream of.

The highly significant artistic touch for architects can be brought to life in different ways depending on the character of the project. This approach can sometimes be reflected in the design through two-dimensional pictorial and/or graphical expressions; other times, it may be conveyed through three-dimensional, sculptural expressions.

Depending on the concept of the project, architectural projects can transform into unique works where artistic expression is dominant and inspires users. Some, however, can be expressed in a naive, simple language that enriches the design. In both cases, ceilings are ideal tools to reveal the tremendous potential of both design and art.

Unforgettable Ceilings of Architectural History

Casa Batlló

Nestled in the heart of Barcelona, Casa Batlló is an exquisite display of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí's aesthetic mastery, rising like a work of art. The building, transformed from a structure originally built in the 1600s, is considered one of the finest examples of Gaudí's creativity and craftsmanship. Due to its skeletal-like elements, it is colloquially known as the "House of Bones."

Inside Casa Batlló, the ceilings are particularly striking. Reflecting Gaudí's unique artistic vision, these ceilings present an organic aesthetic with flowing, wavy lines. The ceiling design, which resembles a swirling water vortex when viewed from the axis of the lighting, draws the viewer in. This artistic expression harmonizes perfectly with the curvilinear lines Gaudí employs across all surfaces.

The building's roof, reminiscent of a dragon's back, is another captivating feature that draws in passersby. The roof's organic form, transitioning from green hues to deep blue and purple, underscores Gaudí's unparalleled aesthetic.

The Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel, located in the Vatican, is home to one of the most stunning ceilings in architectural history. Although the Sistine Chapel has a simple exterior, its interior boasts immaculately detailed Renaissance paintings, making it an extraordinary display of art and history that appeals to both the heart and the intellect. The chapel features a rectangular layout and a vaulted ceiling approximately 20.7 meters high. A series of small vaults are located above the upper windows.

Built in 1473, the chapel features a ceiling adorned with Michelangelo's paintings, created between 1508 and 1512. This masterpiece, completed over four years using the "fresco technique" on wet plaster, is considered a significant work of the Renaissance period. The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel showcases nine scenes depicting creation. Besides Michelangelo, other prominent artists like Botticelli also contributed to these scenes. The intricate detail of God and Adam's hands meeting in the "Creation of Adam" scene is one of the most admired aspects of the artwork.

Vladislav Hall - Prague Castle

Prague Castle's Vladislav Hall, a captivating architectural masterpiece, was commissioned by King Vladislav II and designed by esteemed architect Benedikt Rejt from 1485 to 1502. Adorned with a graceful vault that stretches over 16 meters wide and 14 meters high, it was the largest of its kind in Europe during its time. The distinctive sculptural form of the late Gothic building's ceiling creates a simplistic yet impressive atmosphere. The curved ribs of the vault give the viewer the impression of being in a large, abstract flower garden.

Villa Esche

Henry van de Velde, a Belgian painter, architect, and designer, was one of the founders of 'Deutscher Werkbund' that followed the 'Arts and Crafts' movement and is considered a pioneer of the Bauhaus movement. Van de Velde, who rejected the boundaries between art and craft, leaves an elegant impression of the Art Nouveau period in his works. The simple and unpretentious power in his curvilinear lines can be felt in all his designs, from everyday objects to large structures.

Villa Esche, located in Chemnitz, Germany, was designed in 1902 by Henry van de Velde for textile manufacturer Herbert Esche. As Van de Velde's inaugural project in Germany, the structure seamlessly marries functionality and aesthetics. It is a significant example of the Art Nouveau movement in architecture. After a renovation from 1998 to 2001, the building now hosts the Henry van de Velde Museum. The simplicity of the stained-glass ceiling in the entrance hall and the fluid lines of the elegant ceiling in the dining room reflect Henry van de Velde's refined style.

The Influence of Art on Modern Architecture and Ceiling Design

The simplicity of modern architecture does not hinder the transformation of ceilings into a work of art. The adaptability of ceiling systems to personal tastes inspires various applications and adds a unique touch to architectural projects.

Especially in large-scale projects with expansive ceiling surfaces, the flexibility and diversity offered by ceiling systems can completely change the atmosphere. Ceiling systems that enable creative solutions are indispensable for architects who want to add an artistic touch to their projects. In this regard, we have examined some projects where surprisingly creative and innovative products developed by Durlum for modern architecture are used.

Castle Towers Shopping Center

Constructed nearly four decades ago, the Castle Towers Shopping Center in Castle Hill, Australia was redesigned and reopened in 2020 by The Buchan Group, adjusting to contemporary needs and local specifications. Now, this multifunctional complex caters to the diverse needs of both locals and tourists. It offers a variety of amenities, including retail stores, food courts, cafes, and shopping outlets.

Castle Towers stands out for its floors, each boasting a unique design concept. The second floor presents a relaxed and contemporary atmosphere with warm tones and textured surfaces. Meanwhile, the third floor showcases a sophisticated design with fluid forms and luxurious materials. Since its reopening, Castle Towers Shopping Center has become a premier shopping and entertainment destination in the region, offering visitors an array of options.

The interiors feature artistic elements on the ceilings and floor coverings, displaying the jungle-inspired creations of local artist Oliver Watts.

Artist Oliver Watts used Durlum's LIVA versatile open-cell ceilings to create his artwork, aiming for a vibrant, deep forest aesthetic. LIVA open-cell ceilings offer panels in various colors and textures, providing the artist with a broad palette for expression. In this dynamic composition inspired by nature, the panels are arranged in shades of purple, red, beige, green, and blue. Just as diverse tones coalesce in a sunlit landscape, the artist crafted his vibrant composition leveraging the color diversity offered by Durlum.

Moreover, the artist was able to achieve a dynamic ceiling design due to the ability to arrange LIVA open-cell ceilings perpendicularly and at varying heights. This dynamism enhanced the artwork by creating a perception in the third dimension.

Gravit8 Living Hub

Gravit8 is an innovative living hub constructed on a 15-acre plot of land in Klang, Malaysia. The project boasts a strategic location on the KESAS Highway, a major intercity artery in the Klang Valley.

Gravit8 is a complex that encompasses residential spaces, business towers, a hotel, and SOHO units. The project was designed to function as a self-sustaining living centre. It adopts the slogan "Where Urban Meets Nature," and seeks to offer its users a healthy, sustainable living experience.

The three-dimensional effect created in the entrance halls of the residential towers was achieved thanks to the flexible design of Durlum's linear open cell ceiling system, POLYLAM.

POLYLAM, with its panels manufactured in curved shapes, gives depth to the space. Variables like the size, shape, color, and texture of POLYLAM panels can be customized according to project requirements. The panels, which can be produced in numerous different appearances, have enabled a unique application. In this project, panels with a wood appearance and curved shapes were chosen.

Additionally, the cloud-like effect in the ceiling design not only permits more natural light into the interior but also symbolizes tropical marine life. The uniquely shaped ceiling panels, serving as parametric design elements, enhance the artistic expression of the interior design.

Biogena Salzburg Central Office

The design of Biogena's central office building, located near Mount Gaisberg in Salzburg, Austria, was completed by Berghofer Architecture Office in 2021. The project was honored with the Saint-Gobain International Gypsum Trophy Award in 2022.

The building, designed for 'Biogena' a company focused on finding solutions to diseases through genetics, prioritizes sustainability and energy efficiency. The project meets a significant portion of its energy needs through photovoltaic elements integrated into the facade, alongside green roofs for sustainability.

The project utilizes Durlum's 'DIAMOND TUBE' and 'LIGHT PIPE' daylighting systems, along with 'Punteo J60' LED spot luminaires. The 'DIAMOND TUBE' system generates a unique and uplifting atmosphere by casting impressive light patterns inside throughout the day. This innovative 'DIAMOND TUBE' system adds a distinctive aesthetic touch wherever it's used, scattering daylight inside as if reflecting the sparkle of a diamond. This artistic effect turns the product's function into a form of an art installation.

The 'DIAMOND TUBE' and 'LIGHT PIPE' daylighting systems, designed to enhance our biological connection with the sun, provide users with positive energy. These systems allow users to experience the healing power of daylight at its peak.