INTERIOR DESIGN

FALSE CEILING

Submitted by:
SANDI PRASHANTH REDDY
Scholar no- 101110117
Guided by prof. Jagdish Singh
Department of Architecture and Planning
MANIT, BHOPAL

MAULANA AZAD NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY,

BHOPAL
FEBRUARY 2014

CONTENTS
Topic

Page No.

1.1 Introduction to interior design

1.2 Aims
1.3 Objectives
1.4 Need
1.5 Scope
1.6 Limitations
1.7 Methodology

1
2
2
2
2
2
3

2.1 History
2.2 Introduction to false ceilings
2.3 Purpose of false ceiling in commercial spaces
2.4 Elements of a false ceiling

3
3
4
5

3.1 Types of false ceiling systems

3.2 Aerodynamic in stadium design
3.3 Exposed grid systems
3.4 Concealed grid systems

5
5
6
6

4.1 Materials used for false ceiling in commercial

spaces
4.2 Gypsum board
4.3 Metal ceiling panels
4.4 Plaster of Paris(POP)
4.5 Plywood
4.6 PVC false ceiling
4.7 Fiberboard and fiber/mineral reinforced tiles
4.8 Fabric and cloth
4.9 Companies/ material suppliers

5.1 Disadvantages of false ceilings

5.2 Conclusion/ Recommendations

13
14

References

14

7
9
10
11
12
12
13
13

1.1

INTRODUCTION TO INTERIOR DESIGN

Interior design is the discipline dealing with the principles of design and
construction and ornamentation of fine buildings; "architecture and eloquence are mixed
arts whose end is sometimes beauty and sometimes use . )t is multifarious profession in
which creative and technical solutions are applied within a structure to achieve a built
interior environment. These solutions are functional, enhance the quality of life and culture
of the occupants, and are aesthetically attractive. Designs are created in response to and
coordinated with code and regulatory requirements, and encourage the principles of
environmental sustainability.
The interior design process follows a systematic and coordinated methodology, including
research, analysis and integration of knowledge into the creative process, whereby the
needs and resources of the client are satisfied to produce an interior space that fulfills the
project goals.
Not to be confused with interior decoration, interior design, which evolved from
interior decoration, involves a multitude of technical, analytical, creative skills, and
understandings of architectural elements.
There is a wide range of disciplines
within the career of interior design.
Domestically the profession of interior
design encompasses those designers
who may specialize in residential or
commercial interior design. Within
residential design one can specialize in
kitchen and bathroom design, universal
design, design for the aged, multifamily
housing amongst others. Other interior
designers may dwell in the commercial
or contract realm of interior space
design.
In addition to the above commercial interior designers may specialize in furniture
design, healthcare design, hospitality design, retail design, workspace design, and
sustainability.
In order to achieve the goals in interior design, elements like colors, textures, light,
acoustics, walls, ceilings and everything are used. Among these many elements of interior
design, false ceiling is one which adds a vocabulary in interior design. So through this
following paper it will be restricted only to the documentation of false ceilings in interior
design of commercial spaces and buildings.

1.2

AIM
To study about the role of false ceilings in interior design focusing on commercial
buildings.

1.3

OBJECTIVES
To study about the different types of false ceilings available from available data or
literature.
To understand the characteristics of each type of ceiling materials

To explore different false ceiling materials which are used in offices and other
commercial spaces
To analyse about the false ceilings used with respect to ambience, activity and
architecturally.

1.4

NEED

Effective building design requires balancing multiple objectives: aesthetics, acoustics,

environmental factors, and integration with the building's infrastructure hence there arrises a
need for false ceilings for better acoustics, aesthetics, ambience, lighting, covering service lines
and for better environmental impacts.
The documentation of this paper would give me enough material and guide me in
interior design for my day to day life whenever the project is been taken up. It also gives
way to further documentation about it in future with more precise and details false ceiling
in interior design.
1.5

SCOPE

The paper covers a brief history of false ceilings, materials available, analysis of commercial
false ceiling designs, advantages and disadvantages.
1.6

LIMITATIONS

The study of this topic will be fully based on literature studies and internet with pictorial
presentations because of limited time for case studies practically. More of a kind the
construction details about the false ceiling will be less emphasized.
The details and needs of false ceilings used in residential buildings are not been dealt in
this paper

1.7

METHODOLOGY

Topic selection: selection and finalization of the topic is done

Literature survey: collection of materials and data about the topic.

Case studies: having a glance at the case studies available pertaining to the topic.

Analysis and inference : analyzing the complete data to make a sequential

presentation of the content
Conclusion: conclusions from the above stage with recommendations and
inferences are drawn.

2.1

INTRODUCTION TO FALSE CEILINGS

Concrete ceiling is a commonly known name to everybody. But false ceiling is a name that
has redefined the interior designing. Due to versatile nature and other important features
of false ceiling made it an indispensible feature for every commercial place, be it in a office,
or business place, or commercial complex or IT companies or a restaurant or a theater or
stadium one can witness false ceiling. Various types of false ceilings have become part and
parcel of all these places

2.2 HISTORY
History of false ceiling started when Dropped ceilings were firstly used in Japan for the
purpose of aesthetics in Muromachi period (1337 to 1573) later black friars
theatre in London, England, built in 1596, had dropped ceilings to aid acoustics.
On 24th October 1950 Remmen and Bibb designed first fully developed grid system
concept.
Modern dropped ceilings were built using interlocking tiles and the only way to
provide access for repair or inspection of the area above the tiles was by starting at the
edge of the ceiling, or at a specifically designed "key tile", and then removing the tiles one at
a time until the desired place of access was reached. Once the repair or inspection was
completed, the tiles had to be reinstalled. This process was very time-consuming and
expensive. On September 8, 1958 Donald A. Brown of Westlake, Ohio designed Accessible
Suspended Ceiling Construction. This invention helped suspended ceiling construction in
which access is readily obtained at any desired location.

2.3

PURPOSE OF FALSE CEILING IN COMMERCIAL SPACES

It improves aesthetical appearance ( form, color, treatment etc.) & proportions by

managing room heights basically and remaining are as follows:
Hides ducting & reduces the volume of room Ugly structural members like beams,
etc that usually spoil the look of the room are concealed.
Provides insulation from heat.
Acoustical improvement.
As a design element to create various shapes
and curves.
Fire safety is always a factor in several industrial buildings, ceiling tiles made from
mineral fibres or fire-rated wood panels can be used within the construction to
meet acceptable standards and ratings. Differing levels of fire protection are
obtained from the various types of ceiling available.

Anti-microbial performance. The control of bio-contamination is essential in

healthcare settings such as hospitals and large commercial kitchens

Light reflectance. A ceiling with that reflects more light can reduce lighting and
electricity costs.

To accommodate lighting systems. to provide lighting effects such as hidden lighting

etc

Soil resistance and cleanability. Environments that are subject to a lot of dirt such as
certain manufacturing buildings may need ceilings that can resist dirt and are easy
to clean.

At some places to hide ugly trusses(commonly known as attic)

Sound proof rooms such as meeting rooms, conference rooms, etc, which require a
quit environment.

Echoe reduction in cinema and concert halls

Sound absorbtion reduces noises and reduces reverberation with in the area
covered by the ceiling.

 Reduces overall volume of the space which reduces air conditioning cost.
2.4

ELEMENTS OF A FALSE CEILING

A suspended ceiling system consists of 3 parts:

Primary Members

Secondary Members and

Main Ceiling Material or Tiles e.g. acoustic boards, cloth etc.

These primary and secondary members are called the structural members and form the
framework on which the boards, lighting fixtures, A.C ducts etc. are fixed. The diagram
below depicts all the important parts of a false ceiling (suspended ceiling) system:
1)Main Runners
2)Secondary members
3)Perimeter section
4)hanging member
5)Tile

3.1

TYPES OF FALSE CEILING SYSTEMS

Suspended ceilings are created using metal grid systems, which are suspended below the
ceiling or roof deck using a series of wires. The grid is then filled in with ceiling tiles, which
are primarily made from mineral fiber blends. Depending up on the appearance and
visibility of the members false ceilings are classified in to two types. They are :
1. Exposed Grid
2. Concealed grid
3.2

EXPOSED GRID SYTEMS

A system where the grid is visible and into which panels are laid. The grid is finished in
colours to harmonise or contrast with the panels is known as exposed grid type ceiling.

Exposed grid varieties are the most common type of suspended ceiling.
They consist of long metal strips, called "mains," which are interconnected with shorter
metal pieces known as "tees
Together, the mains and tees form a grid system ,which are then filled with acoustical
ceiling tiles.
Exposed grid suspended ceiling systems can contribute to passive fire protection.
The system is rapid to install and can provide a high degree of access to the ceiling void.

3.3

CONCEALED GRID SYSTEMS

Concealed grid systems use the acoustical tiles to hide the grid system from view.
This creates a smooth, clean which is aesthetically pleasing.
The tile used has a small groove built into it's perimeter, which slides over the mains and
tees to cover them.
Various metal and a few kinds of pop ceilings come under this categeory
This type is more expensive than an exposed system.
This kind of false ceiling system is difficult for maintenance to access areas above the
ceiling.

Figures
showing
sections
of
the
concealed grid ceilings

4.1

MATERIALS USED FOR FALSE CEILING IN COMMERCIAL SPACES:

Depending on the place of usage, ambience needed and economy available. The most
commoly used false ceiling materials are
Gypsum boards
Plaster of paris (POP)
Other materials used are

4.2

Metal ( alumunium, Asbestos)

Mineral wool board
Poly vinyl chloride (PVC)
UPVC
Wood
Polystyrene
Glass
Acrylic

GYPSUM BOARD (Gypboard):

Lightweight, flexible and fire and moisture resistant, gypsum is most commonly used for
false ceiling. Gypsum board panels are tough, versatile and economical, and are fast
replacing other ceiling materials such as POP. Gypsum board can be used while
constructing false ceiling. as well as to renovate old ceilings. The material is fire-resistant,
waterproof, as well as soundproof, which is why it is the most preferred material for false
ceiling.
A gypsum panel could have tapered or square edges. Panels with tapered adage are used
for ceiling since the gap between each edge can be filled, to give a smooth surface. Squareedges board can be used. Where visibility of the joints is a requirement. A suspended
Gypsum board ceiling can be constructed by nailing Gypsum board panels to each other, or
by fixing the panels in a metal grid (usually steel). Generally, gypsum panels of 600
mm600mm are used.
Gypsum ceiling are popular because:
The dry construction eliminates the use of extra water while making the ceiling.
This also keeps the building clean.

Gypsum board is quite flexible. It allows for various shapes and design-such as plain,
curved, stepped, coffered, pelmet, drop design, etc.

 Gypsum board has high impact-resistance and is very strong. It is possible to

suspend a load of up to 15 kg from the ceiling without any difficulty.
A Gyp board ceiling suspended on a metal grid forms a strong ceiling design.
The ceiling can be easily decorated with wallpaper or paint, 24 hours after it is
constructed.
Glass fibre-reinforced gyp board makes excellent insulation material.
Gypsum ceilings are non-resonant which makes then good soundproofing.
When exposed to fire, gypsum gives out water, which is converted to steam and
helps combat the fire. This is what makes the ceiling fireproof.

Table showing properties

Generally available in the tiles of 600mm X 600mm.

Rates of some of the available Gypsum board false ceilings based on the survey and
brouchers available are as follows:
Plain gypsum board ceiling panel: 40/- per sft.
Gypsum board poly Ceiling panel: 47/- per sft.
Gypsum board PVC laminated Ceiling panel: 70/- per sft.
Gypsum board Semi Perforated Ceiling panel: 48/- per sft.
Gypsum board Fully Perforated Ceiling panel: 60/- per sft. without glass-wood.
Gypsum board Fully Fissured Ceiling panel: 60/- per sft.
Gypsum board Silt Ceiling panel: 64/- per sft. without glass-wood.

4.3

METAL CEILING PANELS:

Metals ceilings are suitable for a large Range of applications. The false ceiling is constructed
with metal panels. Which are coupled with insulating materials to make them soundproof?
They are ideal for concealing ducts and wiring, since they can be easily installed and
maintained.
Aluminum or steel panels, 600mm600mm in size, are generally used. The panels can be
laid on a visible steel grid with T-sections or cross-sections that are suspended from the
ceiling by rods. This result is strong, long-lasting surface, which is easy to access. The
panels can also be clipped to each other or clipping into a suspension system having
springs. That method prevents the panel edges from being seen.
The third method is to stretch the metal sheets to form various shapes, which can be
suspended from the ceiling. This treatment is ideal for obtaining a variety of shapes in the
metal, without changing its soundproofing ability.

Advantages of metal ceiling:

They reduce overall cost, since they are easy to install and access.
Hidden services can be easily accessed since the panels are removable.
They are ideal for workspaces which require clean environments and services that
require maintenance such as the machinery rooms, the AHU, etc.

 They have a monolithic look.

They give the space a very modern look and blend well with glass.

Figs. showing metal ceilings in an airport on the left and a hotel corridor on the right

4.4

PLASTER OF PARIS (POP):

Plaster of Paris (POP) is commonly used for constructing false ceilings. Gypsum, which
gives out water when heated, makes POP. Post-heating, gypsum softens and is then crushed
to form a powder. POP hardens instantly when water is added to it. It is applied to
fibreboard or a wood base, which is then suspended to form the false ceiling.

Advantages of POP:
A smooth, uniform finish.
The surface can be recorded or painted.
POP false ceiling are easy to construct and maintain.
The ceilings are really light.
Thickness- 10-15 mm
Rate: 30/- per sft. to soon depend upon the design & Pattern.

Labor cost for the pop ceiling is high.

4.5

PLYWOOD:

Plywood ceiling are widely used for their visual appeal. These ceilings are created with
strips of ply glued or nailed together. The strips are held together and strengthened with
ply supports at equal distances. Ply ceiling are generally used in place with cold climates.
Advantage of ply ceilings:
They are strong and look appealing.
They can be given various finishes, or painted to get the right look.
They can be treated to increase their lifespan.
But ply ceiling are difficult to maintain, since these are prone to termite attacks. The room
has to be thermally controlled to reduce the humidity in the air. Also, the wood is prone to
warping and other physical changes, with time.

4.6

PVC FALSE CEILING:

PVC ceiling system is light in weight, moisture resistant and reduces condensation and
subsequent dripping from ceiling onto work surfaces. The cleanable, non-absorbent surface
is UV stable and will not discolour.
PVC ceiling systems solves the problem of dirty, unhygienic ceilings that are difficult,
and expensive to clean by providing a bright, durable and hygienic surface, which is easily
maintained. This extremely practical ceiling system is suitable for any area requiring a
fixed, non-porous, non-fibrous and non-absorbent ceiling. they are waterproof, termite
proof, fire retardant, economical, maintenance free, being non-porous and non-absorbent,
can incorporate flush fitting, lighting, access hatches, air vents and sprinklers easy to install
& available in various colours shades & no hassles of painting & polishing.

4.7

FIBERBOARD AND FIBER/MINERAL REINFORCED TILES:

False ceiling can be made with fiber or mineral reinforced

tiles and fiberboard. Fiber reinforced tiles are
strengthened with wood vegetable fiber, wood waste,
reed paper and agricultural wastes. Mineral tiles are
ceramics reinforced with natural stone, wood, vegetable
fiber, bitumen and tars. This process increases the
insulation capacity of the product.
Advantages
They have high insulation against sound and fire.
The fiber increases the hardness and the toughness of the material.
The material can be decorated with paint or other finishes improving the aesthetics
of the room.
Water repellents and preservatives can be added to increase the life of the product.
If fire safety is a factor, ceiling tiles made from mineral fibers, or fire-rated wood
panels can be used within the construction to meet acceptable standards/ratings

4.8 FABRIC AND CLOTH:

Fabric is an inexpensive material, may be draped
across ceilings, collect dust, these are used for
temporary purposes in big churches and function
halls.

In some places, the light is diffused through the fabric providing a comfortable intensity
This kind of false ceiling is not functional but greatly adds to the aesthetics of the place.

4.9

COMPANIES /MATERIAL SUPPLIERS:

Gypsum boards- India Gypsum PVT. Limited
Aluminium metal panels- LUXALON, Vista, LEVOLOR
Fibreboard and mineral board panels- Armstrong,
INARCO
limited,
ARK
international, Modern Plasta Corporation
POP- Eternit Everest limited
PVC and UPVC- Beasal Polytech India Pvt. Ltd, Model
Interiors , Poly Extrusions (India) Private Limited

5.1

DISADVANTAGES OF FALSE CEILINGS:

The most worrying aspect of having a false ceiling would be pests. They can get
through into the space between and can start their own breeding which might lead
to a lot of trouble.
Also be careful while putting up decorations or hangings while you have a false
ceiling in place. Make sure you know the strength and durability, do's and don'ts
with regard to your ceiling.
Lastly, the false ceiling would reduce the height of the ceiling considerably and
hence do not install false ceiling unless you have a decent ceiling height.

5.2

CONCLUSIONS / RECOMMEDATIONS:

Exposed grid systems are a simple, quick and cost-effective way of installing a ceiling to
your office, factory or shop. These systems allow easy access to the ceiling space for
associated trade work such as electrical and air conditioning which will ensure you get the
best price for your overall fit out.
Fire safety is always a factor, ceiling tiles made from mineral fibers or fire-rated wood
panels can be used within the construction to meet acceptable standards and ratings. These
same tiles can provide the needed additional resistance to meet the "time rating" required
for various fire code, city ordinance, commercial, or other similar building construction
regulations.

Wiring and piping installed behind traditional plaster or wallboard ceilings is extremely
difficult to modify once the finished ceiling is in place. Wires must either be fished through
hollow spaces in the walls behind, or the ceiling must be demolished in order for wiring or
piping changes to be made.
In business, the suspended ceiling is often used with hollow steel studs to construct small
office spaces out of a much larger space. Wiring and other services are run through the
open ceiling, down through the hollow stud walls, and to outlets in the work areas. If
business needs change, the office spaces are easily dismantled and the overall space is
reconfigured with a different floor plan.

REFERENCES:
Books:
Architectural Ceiling Treatments witten by Neal Barrett
Walls and Ceilings published by "Time-Life Books"
Brochures:

Neucon false ceiling sollutions

Armstrong

Links:
https://www.google.com/patents?id=fFZdAAAAEBAJ&printsec=abstract&zoom=4#v=
onepage&q&f=false
http://continuingeducation.construction.com/crs.php?L=73&C=936
http://media.cleveland.com/metro/other/brown-patent.pdf
http://www.armstrong.com/assets/global/commclgeu/files/Literature/1678.PDF
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dropped_ceiling