Vaulted ceilings are generally considered something of the past. They are also very classic structural parts of buildings like churches. Now they are making their way to modern-day homes, and something you will want to consider when trying to make a statement. Let Kate Hartman, an interior designer in Denver, tell you about the pros and cons of vaulted ceilings, that way you have the most up-to-date information when deciding on the structure of your home.
Pros And Cons Of A Vaulted Ceiling
As with anything, some pros and cons must be considered before going full force into the construction of vaulted ceilings or when considering buying a home that has vaulted ceilings. Let’s get into it!
What Is A Vaulted Ceiling?
When thinking of a vaulted ceiling, first, you must define it. The vaulted ceiling has obtained so many different meanings over the years. Historically, a vaulted ceiling was referred to as any arched ceiling below a roof and above a wall. These ceilings would be in the shape of a barrel or a dome. In plain terms, this means that these ceilings took advantage of the space between the roof and would be “a flat ceiling.” Now, these ceilings are not limited to churches; they have become increasingly popular in homes, making a statement in homes ranging from contemporary and modern farmhouse to minimalist.
Pros of A Vaulted Ceiling
If you are looking for a room to be a statement all of its own, then a vaulted ceiling is the way to go in that space. It will create a new spatial geometry that changes the shape of the entire room. A vaulted ceiling in that type of space adds structural impressiveness that you can’t get using other concepts. The vaulted ceiling creates such a “WOW” moment when walking from room to room. With all other rooms having flat ceilings, when you go into the room with the vaulted ceiling, there is a level of splendor you can’t get any other way.
Here are our top 3 Pros:
- Spaciousness: Vaulted ceilings create a sense of openness and spaciousness in a room. They can make a room feel larger and more airy, which can be especially beneficial in smaller spaces.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Vaulted ceilings can be visually striking and add character to a home. They can enhance the overall design and make a room more attractive.
- Natural Light: The height of a vaulted ceiling allows for larger windows or skylights, which can bring in more natural light. This can make the room brighter and more inviting.
Vaulted Ceilings Fit Certain Homes
When considering a vaulted ceiling, you do have to think of the type of home you are living in or interested in living in. Not every home is a good fit for a vaulted ceiling. Ideal home styles for a vaulted ceiling are:
- Midcentury Homes
- Sprawling Historic Homes
- New Construction Homes
New Construction homes really give the freedom to create any type of ceiling you would like no matter the style. You could create a vaulted ceiling in a modern farmhouse-style home if you so desire, when you are working with a new construction home. The possibilities are really endless.
Cons Of A Vaulted Ceiling
One of the biggest disadvantages of vaulted ceilings is that they do not work for the average homeowner. They require a specific set of circumstances, whether that be the style of home you have or the cost it takes to construct a vaulted ceiling. You really do have to have the right set of circumstances, and that doesn’t leave much room for anyone to add this style of ceiling to their home if they ddesire It’s also not functional for all types of lighting the way a flat ceiling would be. This puts the typical homeowner at a disadvantage once again.
Here are our top 3 cons of a vaulted ceiling:
- Heating and Cooling Costs: One of the main drawbacks of vaulted ceilings is that they can be less energy-efficient. The large, open space can be challenging to heat in the winter and cool in the summer, leading to higher energy bills.
- Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining vaulted ceilings can be more challenging due to their height. Dust and cobwebs may accumulate in hard-to-reach areas, requiring specialized equipment or cleaning services.
- Acoustic Issues: Vaulted ceilings can sometimes create acoustic problems, such as echoes and sound reverberation. This can make it more difficult to have conversations or enjoy multimedia in the room.
High-Priced Investment
Vaulted ceilings, as stunning as they are, are equally as expensive. Because vaulted ceilings are not commonly found in homes anymore, they will have to be specially constructed for your space. When you start discussing structural changes like this, the cost can go high for the amount of material and work that goes into it. One would have to plan considerably to incorporate a cost like this into the home budget. It can be done, it just might not come as easily as you may like.
Beauty In the Ceiling
It is undeniable that having a vaulted ceiling in your home is a breathtaking structural addition. This is not something you can find in any old home, and it’s not a structural change even meant for certain home styles. As with anything when considering things for your living area, you should consider everything Especially when considering a vaulted ceiling, expenses and time need to be considered thoroughly. This is where Kate Hartman Interiors can help tell you everything you need to know and help you weigh the pros and cons. We know it can be hard making decisions like this, but we care that you are informed on all aspects of it.