The ceiling fan as a decorative piece, according to interior designers

Ana López and Beatriz Mayo, interior designers and founders of Ragō Estudio, reveal how the ceiling fan becomes a decorative piece and how to choose the right model for each space.

Nowadays, the ceiling fan is no longer a purely functional object; it has also become a decorative piece that brings personality and style to a space. Minimalist, coloured, textured, bladeless, made from natural wood, lamp-style and even textile designs are all part of a design and decor trend that has firmly established itself as a genuine must-have.

Ana López and Beatriz Mayo are the founders of Ragō Estudio, an interior design studio specialising in residential projects where material, light and detail define the character of a space. Both see design as a tool for improving the way we live, and they work with a calm, considered approach, taking care over every decision from start to finish.

Here, they answer all the questions that might come up about the fan as a decorative piece, explaining just how much it can add to a space from a design perspective, and how it can completely transform the atmosphere of a room.

What does a ceiling fan with three light settings bring to a room?

It lets us adapt the mood of a space to suit each moment of the day. Lighting completely transforms how a space is perceived, which is why we’re particularly fond of warm, ambient light — it makes spaces feel cosier and encourages relaxation and rest. That said, day to day there are also moments when a more neutral light is needed, one that brings clarity and makes it easier to focus on tasks that require more concentration.

How do you choose a fan that suits the style of your home?

The first step is understanding the style of the home — whether you want the fan to form part of the room’s decorative elements and take centre stage, or you’re simply after a functional piece without neglecting aesthetics.

If you prefer a warm, natural and welcoming atmosphere, opt for fans with wooden blades featuring simple lines and soft tones. If the home has a more minimalist style, on the other hand, a white, black or visually understated model tends to work better.

When should you choose a fan with a fabric or metallic finish?

We choose a fan with a fabric finish when we’re after a warmer, softer and more welcoming atmosphere. It works really well in interiors such as bedrooms, living rooms or spaces with a more relaxed aesthetic. We opt for metallic finishes, on the other hand, when the space has a more contemporary style, as they bring lightness and a more modern touch.

Can a coloured ceiling fan feel visually tiring?

Not necessarily. A coloured fan can work very well if it’s chosen with intention and coherence with the rest of the space. The key is deciding whether you want the fan to blend in or take on more of a starring role.

Interior design is currently moving further and further away from purely neutral aesthetics. We’re seeing more and more spaces embrace colour, texture and pieces with character, edging towards a more considered, balanced maximalism. Ultimately, it’s not so much about whether there’s colour or not, but whether that colour makes sense within the overall design.

What’s better: wooden, metal or plastic blades?

There’s no material that’s inherently better than another — it depends on the use, the room it’s in and the aesthetic you’re going for.

Wooden or wood-effect blades bring warmth and suit natural interiors very well, while metal blades work better in more contemporary or minimalist spaces. Plastic or ABS blades, meanwhile, are highly practical, lightweight and moisture-resistant, making them a good choice for kitchens, covered terraces or outdoor spaces.

The ceiling fan is no longer a secondary feature; it has become another part of the language of contemporary interior design. Choosing it well helps to reinforce a space’s identity and improve the everyday experience of being at home.

The key, as Ana and Beatriz from Ragō Estudio point out, is to see it as part of the whole, rather than as an isolated piece.

If, alongside the design, you’d like to explore technical aspects such as size, efficiency or noise level, you can check out the ceiling fan purchase guide.