A coffered ceiling is defined as a ceiling decorated with ornate recessed panels. In the home, coffered ceilings are most common in a den or library. They are also becoming more popular in kitchens and dining rooms, and you will find them specified in high-end commercial settings, like executive offices and conference rooms.

With coffered ceilings, the wood can be either stained or painted, depending on the desired look. The types of wood available range from MDF, poplar, maple, red oak, to cherry -- with MDF & poplar at the low-end and cherry at the high-end. The style varies with the size and depth of the coffer (panel). A shallow coffer is 2" deep, and a deep coffer can be 4" deep or more. These provide dramatic effects, especially when the area is also treated with crown mouldings and contrasting finishes.