Making an Architectural Statement on your Ceiling

Happy Monday SAS Friends! I hope you had a great weekend.  Since it's winter and cold in the northeast, I've been tackling many of the projects on my never-ending to-do-list.  One {BIG}checkmark OFF the list was accomplished this past weekend.... It ended up being more than planned...when isn't it?!  I was hoping to make the big reveal today, but it's going to take a few days to add the finishing touches.  But let's start off this Monday with a true architectural {SHOW STOPPER} that will transform any space.....

Instantly update your interior decor and make an architectural statement with the addition of ceiling beams. Beams on the ceiling are often thought of as a rustic aesthetic, but that's untrue.  Depending on the finish, size, and design of the beam, along with your interior decor, beams can complement any style.

Ceiling beams don't have to be real or structural.  You can easily add faux style beams to any ceiling to transform the overall architectural look.  Many homes built within the last few years, have open floor plans where spaces blend from one to the next, resulting in one large {white}ceiling.  With the use of ceiling beams, the space can be more defined and add visual appeal to any large unadorned surface.

Without the addition of ceiling beams in the above living rooms, the spaces would have been ordinary in their white color palette. By adding the architectural interest of natural wood beams, the focal point is now eye popping and interesting!

Either rustic or distressed, architectural ceiling beams and detailing make a space feel cozy, yet spacious.

No matter the style of your kitchen, ceiling beams will enhance the character of the space.  They will add charm and interest that wouldn't be achieved solely with the cabinetry.  

If you want to achieve a more ornate, decorative look, introduce additional mouldings to further enhance the ceiling beams.

For a modern space, add a clean, minimalist style beam that complements your other woods, will enhance the overall look and heighten the space even more....DRAMA!

WOW ~ These decorative ceiling elements are incredible!  They provide amazing visual interest to a cathedral style ceiling.  This space is unimaginable without the beams. 

Even though it's nice to dress up your ceiling, beams don't have to be the focal point of the space.  Use a tone-on-tone color or beam depth that is less than 4" and you'll still achieve an architectural statement, but at a lesser degree.

If you are interested in adding some architectural interest to a room in your own home, check out this step by step tutorial at DIY Network. 

With pre-planning and patience, adding ceiling beams to your room can truly transform your space from ordinary to extraordinary!

What space in your home would you like to add some architectural interest?

 Images Courtesy of Corbis Images, Frank DelleDonne, Flickr, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Patricia Gray