A grid ceiling is a false ceiling in the sense that it is not part of a permanent support structure such as floor joists or a cement floor/ceiling. Grid ceilings are sometimes called T-bar ceilings because "T-bars" form the grid that holds the ceiling panels in place.

Often thought of as a modern innovation, grid ceilings have actually been in use for hundreds of years. They exist in traditional Japanese homes and were used in London's Blackfriars Theatre in the late 16th century to improve the acoustics in the theatre.

Grid ceilings have been used extensively in highrise and other commercial structures for decades. Originally, they were used to hide pipes, electrical wiring and ducting, which of necessity had to be attached to a ceiling. They have also been used in multi-storey office buildings and apartment complexes because of their excellent acoustic properties.