Plafon

Plafon is a term used in architecture and interior design to denote the upper interior surface of a room, the ceiling. The word derives from the French plafond, meaning ceiling. The ceiling defines the upper boundary of a space, helps with acoustic control, thermal insulation, and lighting, and often contributes to the room’s character and proportions.

Ceilings vary widely in form and function. Flat ceilings are common in residential and commercial spaces, while vaulted, groin, or barrel configurations appear in more monumental architecture. Suspended or false ceilings, also called drop ceilings, are used to conceal structural elements, wiring, and HVAC systems and to improve acoustic performance. Coffered, paneled, or decorative ceilings provide aesthetic emphasis and can incorporate materials such as wood, plaster, or metal.

Materials and construction methods differ by period and application. Traditional ceilings may be plaster over lath or wood paneling, while modern interiors frequently use gypsum board, cementitious panels, or mineral fiber tiles. The choice of material affects fire resistance, thermal and sound insulation, and ease of access for maintenance and repairs. Lighting integration is common, with recessed luminaires, coves, or skylights designed into the plafon.

Design considerations include ceiling height and proportion, acoustic performance, insulation, and serviceability. A higher plafon can create a sense of openness, while lower ceilings may require careful lighting and finishes to avoid a cramped feel. In some languages, plafon also refers to a ceiling-mounted light fixture; in Spanish, for example, plafón denotes a ceiling light.