A coffered ceiling in architecture is a series of sunken panels in the shape of a square, rectangle, or octagon in a ceiling, soffit or vault.
Coffered Ceilings are not flat like traditional ceilings and may have some beans running across the ceiling or may just have square shaped ceiling indention's.
Basically a coffered Ceiling refers to a custom wooden frame over ceiling panels to create the look of the historical design.
The coffered detail is a series of recessed panels, usually in a rectangular or square grid, that is added to a flat or vaulted ceiling.
In some homes such as older homes the coffered ceiling can sometimes add value to the home but not always.
Some people like the look of coffered ceilings and some people hate the look.