While the popcorn ceilings that were popular in the mid to late 20th century can look a little dated, even newer homes often create variation for their surfaces, from subtle to more dramatic.

Above the staircase, the dome ceiling is paired with curved wood beams from which a Waterford Crystal chandelier hangs a little more than half the height of the staircase.

GENEVA — A $23 million ceiling painting featuring hundreds of dangling icicle shapes that has been criticized for its hefty price tag was unveiled last week at the U.N. offices in Geneva. The ...