Stretched-skin ceiling
A stretched-skin ceiling (or stretch ceiling) is a form of suspended ceiling that consists of a thin membrane stretched across a frame that runs around the perimeter of the ceiling. They are typically lightweight and relatively easy to install and can span large areas.
Stretched-skin ceilings are used in exhibition spaces, swimming pools, bars, restaurants, offices and so on. They can be used as decorative elements, to provide shading, to conceal services, as a translucent element of a lighting system, or in the form of small panels or even walls.
The fabric membrane is commonly a PVC coated polyester which can be supplied in a wide range of colours, or can be printed with images. More rigid materials such as metal mesh may also be used. Where a stretched-skin ceiling includes a thermoplastic membrane – such as an acrylic, it may be limited in size by the building regulations.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The sad story of Derby Hippodrome
An historic building left to decay.
ECA, JIB and JTL back Fabian Society call to invest in skills for a stronger built environment workforce.
Women's Contributions to the Built Environment.
Calls for the delayed Circular Economy Strategy
Over 50 leading businesses, trade associations and professional bodies, including CIAT, and UKGBC sign open letter.
The future workforce: culture change and skill
Under the spotlight at UK Construction Week London.
A landmark moment for postmodern heritage.
A safe energy transition – ECA launches a new Charter
Practical policy actions to speed up low carbon adoption while maintaining installation safety and competency.
Frank Duffy: Researcher and Practitioner
Reflections on achievements and relevance to the wider research and practice communities.
The 2026 Compliance Landscape: Fire doors
Why 'Business as Usual' is a Liability.
Cutting construction carbon footprint by caring for soil
Is construction neglecting one of the planet’s most powerful carbon stores and one of our greatest natural climate allies.
ARCHITECTURE: How's it progressing?
Archiblogger posing questions of a historical and contextual nature.
The roofscape of Hampstead Garden Suburb
Residents, architects and roofers need to understand detailing.
Homes, landlords. tenants and the new housing standards
What will it all mean?