Even though it may not be the first thing you notice when you enter a room, the ceiling makes a big impact on how you perceive the space. A well designed room should include careful study of how the ceiling is perceived. Simple unadorned ceilings are fine as long as they fit the rooms they are above. There is almost no limit to the design options available when considering the ceiling of a home.
When additional ceiling height is needed, sometimes the best choice is to reveal the underlying structure. In this kitchen, the ceilings were low and unattractive. The beams were even better than we hoped for once the contractors took down the plaster.
In this master bedroom, we provided interest and detail by designing built up beams which were painted the color of the surrounding trim.
200 year old beams reclaimed from barns slated for distruction as well as reclaimed flooring work together in this study to create a warm, rustic feeling.
This screened porch has a lofty feeling with a natural pine bead board ceiling following the curve of the exterior structure. The roof of this porch is a copper barrel vault.
Great post. Love your work. Yes, ceilings (like floors) so important… huge planes of color in a space.
Thanks. We try to give ceilings their due.
You discuss transforming low ceilings. What would you suggest to make high/double height ceilings more cozy and informal?
Jim, nice work here. I love the look of the wood on the ceilings when you have height in a room.
If the room has good light the wood should not darken the room as most people would think.
Thank you for the article on ceilings. I appreciate the unique aspect that can impact space that is normally taken for granted.
We sometimes add beams or collar ties to too tall ceilings. Often some details like coffers add interest to a high volume room.
@ Amy:
We happen to have a (simply-styled) larger chandelier hung lowly over our coffee table/seating area to give a more intimate feel. Just a thought…
Thanks Jim for letting me take over your website :-)