Gypsum and Plaster

• New styles of grid-type tiles are made of lightweight layered gypsum or plaster that looks and acts much the same as drywall. These tiles can be painted to match the room or used, as is, without finishing. These work well in more formal spaces, such as a dining room or historic renovations where a modern drop ceiling would look out of place.
  
  

Decorative Metal and PVC

• Molded and shaped tiles are a lesson taken from the history of decorating in a whole new way. Pressed tin ceilings were a decorative addition in many Victorian-era homes and are distinctive panel types. In a range of styles, from embossed designs to those that recreate the look of formal molding, these tiles can be used to cover an old ceiling, either a suspension type or glued onto the existing surface. These panels can be painted or purchased pre-finished.
  
  

Wood

• Attractive, modern and eco-friendly, wood drop ceiling tiles are created from a high-recycled wood content and are available in large and small panels. Many of the wood veneer designs are made to hide the suspension system and give the room a warm, modern look. Like most drop ceiling systems the wood also offers fire resistance and insulating properties.
  
  

Acoustic

• Home theater systems have created a trend for rooms designed just like a home movie theater. Acoustic drop ceilings can insulate the room so noise doesn't disturb the rest of the home while helping the sound system create a theater quality experience. Suspended like typical drop ceiling systems, the secret is in the type of materials the tile is made of, along with an additional layer of insulation to deflect sound.