If you want to add some elegance and sophistication to a room in your home, a crown molding tray ceiling can be an excellent option. This type of ceiling features a recessed area in the center, framed by crown molding.
Not only does this add depth and dimension to the room, but it can also provide an opportunity for lighting to enhance the ambiance. But how do you build a crown molding tray ceiling?
Here, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to build a crown molding tray ceiling.
Guides On How Do You Build a Crown Molding Tray Ceiling

Materials and Tools Required
Before you start, gathering all the necessary materials and tools is important. Here is a list of what you will need:
Materials:
- Plywood
- Crown molding
- Wood glue
- Nails
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper
- Paint and primer
- Lighting fixtures
Tools:
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw
- Table saw
- Miter saw
- Drill
- Hammer
- Level
- Paint brushes
- Measuring the Ceiling
The first step in building crown molding tray ceilings is to measure the coffered ceiling to determine the size of the tray. Begin by measuring the length and width of the room.
The tray should be centered in the middle of the room and can be any size you desire. For a more balanced look, it’s best to have the tray be approximately one-third the length and one-third the width of the room.
Creating the Tray
Once you have determined the size of the tray, you can begin creating it. To do this, you will need to cut a piece of plywood to the size of the tray. Next, use a circular saw to cut out the center of the plywood, leaving a rectangular frame around the edge. You can then use a table saw to cut the plywood frame down to the desired depth of the tray.
Next, you must add crown molding to the edges of the plywood frame. Measure and cut the crown molding to fit around the perimeter of the frame using a miter saw. Use wood glue to attach the crown molding to the plywood frame and secure it with nails.
Once the crown molding has been attached, use wood filler to fill any gaps or nail holes. Sand the wood filler and the entire tray with sandpaper until the surface is smooth.
Installing the Crown Molding
With the tray now complete, the tray is ready for adding crown molding around the perimeter of the tray. Begin by measuring and cutting the crown molding to fit the length of each accent wall.
Use a miter saw to make the necessary cuts to create the corners of the tray. Once all the pieces have been cut, you can attach them to the ceiling using a nail gun. Make sure the modern crown moulding has a level by using a level as you go.
Lighting Options
One of the best things about crown molding tray ceilings is that it provides a perfect opportunity to add lighting fixtures that can enhance the room’s overall look.
There are many different types of led lighting fixtures that you can use to create a cozy atmosphere, such as recessed lighting or pendant lights. Plan out the lighting design before installation carefully, and ensure that a qualified electrician does the wiring.
Painting and Finishing
Now that the crown molding and tray are installed, it’s time to paint and finish the coffered ceiling. Begin by applying primer to the entire tray ceiling crown molding. Once the primer has dried, apply your chosen paint color.
Make sure to paint carefully around the edges of the crown molding, as this can be a tricky area to paint.
After the paint has dried, you can add any finishing touches. For example, you may want to add decorative trim or wallpaper to the inside of the tray to give it a unique look. Alternatively, you may leave the trays inside unpainted to create a natural wood finish.
What Are the Different Types of Crown Molding Tray Ceilings?

Crown molding tray ceilings are a beautiful addition to any living room, adding depth and sophistication to your home. There are several types of tray ceilings, each with its unique features and benefits. Here are the most common crown molding tray ceiling types:
Single-Step Tray Ceiling
The single-step tray vaulted ceiling is a simple design with a single recessed area in the modern ceiling molding ideas. This ceiling design is perfect for homeowners who want to add a subtle touch of elegance to their rooms without going over the baseboard.
Multi-Step Tray Ceiling
The multi-step tray coffered ceiling features several levels of recessed areas, giving the ceiling a more dramatic and eye-catching appearance. This design is perfect for larger rooms or homeowners wanting to create a more significant impact.
Coffered Tray Ceiling
The coffered tray ceiling is a more intricate design with a grid of sunken panels. This design adds depth and texture to your room, creating a unique and luxurious feel.
Curved Tray Ceiling
The curved tray ceiling is a more unusual design that adds an extra element of elegance to any room. This design features a curved recessed area in the ceiling, which is framed by modern crown molding ideas.
Lighted Tray Ceiling
The lighted tray awesome decorative molding ceiling is a design that features built-in lighting fixtures, which can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in any room. With this design, homeowners can add both style and functionality to their dining room ceilings.
Each type of awesome ceiling molding tray ceiling has unique advantages, so it’s essential to consider your needs and preferences before deciding on the right design.
You may also want to consult with a professional contractor to help you determine which design will work best in your space and provide you with the most significant impact.
What Is the Standard Depth of a Tray Ceiling?
The depth of a tray ceiling can vary depending on the interior design and the homeowner’s or designer’s preferences. However, some standard measurements are commonly used for tray ceilings.
Tray ceiling depth is generally between 6 and 12 inches (15-30 cm), but this can vary depending on the size of the room and the overall design.
A shallow tray ceiling paneling, with a depth of around 6 inches, is often used in smaller rooms or areas with lower ceilings to avoid making the room feel too cramped. In larger rooms, a deeper cathedral ceiling tray, measuring 12 inches or more, can help to create a more dramatic effect and add visual interest to the space.
What Is the Minimum Height for A Tray Ceiling?
Tray ceiling height depends on the tray’s depth and the room’s height. The general rule of thumb is that the tray ceiling should not remove too much headroom from the space. A good tray’s high ceiling height is 8 feet (2.4 meters), but it can vary depending on the depth of the tray.
Conclusion
A crown molding tray ceiling is a beautiful addition to any home and can be a great DIY project for homeowners who are handy with tools. With some basic materials and tools, you can create a tray ceiling that adds depth, dimension, and sophistication to any room in your home.
Just measure carefully, plan out your cove lighting design, and take your time during the installation and finishing. With some patience and effort, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning new feature in your home that you’ll enjoy for years.
Relevant Article To Read: