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A ceiling dome is a halved spherical structure, with a concave interior that generally extends up and into the ceiling.

In a sense, a dome is a series of arches rotated around the vertical axis. In itself, a dome is structurally sound and strong; however, much larger ceiling domes exert much force around their perimeters, requiring extra support with the wall.

A ceiling dome can encompass an entire ceiling or it can simply span a small space, and while the ceiling dome works well on its own, it can prove a focal point for ambient lighting, and hanging objects.

Today's contemporary ceiling domes are inspired by a rich architectural history. The first domes were of simple design and appeared in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and India. The Romans advanced the construction of domes on a larger scale. A fine example is seen in the Greek Pantheon.

Byzantine architects developed the dome further, and inspired both Islamic and Italian Renaissance architects. Renaissance architects raised stunning multi-layered domes, and domes decorated with religious frescoes.

A saucer dome is named as such because it has the appearance of a shallow saucer when viewed from bellow. Saucer ceiling domes are low-pitched in terms of depth. Elliptical domes, named for their elliptical bases, are less common. The Persian, or onion dome, is more than half a sphere and raises to a point. The most famous examples are those seen at the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, and at Saint Basil's Cathedral, in Moscow, Russia.

Since the first century, custom-made structures, with architectural accents, have enhanced many homes and public buildings. Ceiling domes in particular have been around for thousands of years and can add a unique quality and look to any home or building.

A ceiling dome functions much like the reflective bowl around recessed lighting, but with more aesthetic details, because they can provide a buffer between the splendor of the lamp and the plain qualities of the ceiling. A recessed ceiling dome can be installed during construction, while other ceiling dome designs allow for surface installation. Some designers eliminate the chandelier entirely and create whole skylines or copies of famous paintings inside the dome itself.

Ceiling domes vary, from the round traditional dome to the surface mounted domes. The traditional ceiling dome is oval-shaped, with a decorative trim. The designs for the surface-mounted ceiling dome include very simple and elegant to elaborate. A classic example of a ceiling dome is that of the interior ceiling in the San Francisco Hall.

Ceiling domes were originally used prior to the advent of electricity and modern utilities. They are made of wood or cast in plaster to mold into different shapes and will add lasting value to your home.

Ceiling domes are often utilized in foyers, lobbies, dining rooms and bathrooms and can be used with or without a chandelier.