If you’re planning to have a custom home built, the sky’s the limit when it comes to design options. You’ve most likely given a lot of thought to your home’s layout, but you may not have given much consideration to the type of ceiling to choose for each room. You don’t have to limit yourself to flat ceilings when there are several other styles that can give your home a distinctive appearance.
Vaulted Ceiling
If you want to make the ceiling higher in one room or area, a vaulted ceiling is the perfect choice. A vaulted ceiling can be angled to match the roofline and can make a family room or another common area feel more open and inviting. It’s important to note that it may be challenging (and expensive) to keep a room with a vaulted ceiling warm in the winter, since heat rises.
Raised Ceiling
With a raised ceiling, an entire room can have a ceiling that’s higher than usual. You can even design an area with a ceiling that’s twice the average height to create an expansive space that will immediately grab guests’ attention.
Exposed Beams
A ceiling with exposed beams can give a room depth and create visual interest. This design works with a variety of architectural styles and is popular in areas where people gather to socialize, like living rooms and dining rooms.
Exposed plaster beams can be arranged in a variety of patterns to lend extra character to any room. Exposed wood beams can give your custom home a timeless and rustic appearance.
You don’t have to expose structural beams. If you just want to enjoy the aesthetic effect of having exposed beams in the ceiling, you can add beams strictly as a design element.
Tray Ceiling
A tray ceiling slopes down toward the walls to make a small room seem larger or make a large room feel cozier. Tray ceilings are commonly used in master bedrooms. If you want to install an impressive light fixture, a tray ceiling can give you the extra space you need.
You can choose an angled tray ceiling or a step tray ceiling with square edges. Another option is an accented tray ceiling that incorporates wood, tile or another material to create a unique and stylish look.
Coffered Ceiling
A coffered ceiling has a grid-like design with dropped beams, recessed panels and molding for accents. Coffered ceilings have traditionally been found in luxury homes, but this design option is now more affordable.
Discuss Ceiling Designs With Your Architect
Think about your house’s aesthetics as a whole, as well as construction costs and the possible effects of a particular ceiling design on your utility bills. Discuss these issues with your architect to get help choosing the right style for your new home.
