Comments
The Ultimate Guide to Vaulted Ceilings
Discover how vaulted ceilings draw the eye upwards, add spaciousness and heighten the ambience of an ordinary space
Pooja Khanna Tyagi
7 May 2021
Houzz India Contributor. An Architect , Interior Designer, Valuer, a Marathon Runner, and love Writing Poetry and Creative Stories on Building Design. Have been practicing since the year 2000 with specialization in the field of Corporate Interiors with projects extensively published in journals of national repute. Recently honoured with the reputed A3 Foundation award for Journalism for the year 2016 an for architectural poetry in the year 2018. Currently practicing and residing in Delhi and Noida.
Website: www.khannaenterprise.com, Email: poojakhanna224@gmail.com, M:9891993392
Houzz India Contributor. An Architect , Interior Designer, Valuer, a Marathon Runner,... More
Vaulted ceilings were a prominent feature of the churches and basilicas (public buildings) of the Gothic and Roman style of architecture during the Middle Ages but over a period of time they gradually formed the ceilings of some traditional, modern and industrial-style homes. A vaulted ceiling stands out from the other types of ceiling designs because it extends from the side walls of the building towards the central point and creates a large volume of overhead space. In this all-you-need-to-know guide we give you some valuable insights about vaulted ceilings.
What are the different types of vaulted ceilings?
- A vaulted ceiling is also known as a cathedral ceiling, which has equal slopes on either side and merges at the highest point of the ceiling to take the shape of an inverted V. A steeper roof pitch is required for a higher vault while a lower-pitched roof incorporates a shallower vault.
- A barrel vault is an arched ceiling which comprises of a single curve along the entire length of the ceiling. In this image just see how the barrel vault ceiling softens the look of the foyer and the multiple glass panels bring in ample natural light throughout the day.
- When two barrel vaults or arched ceilings intersect at the centre they form a groin vaulted ceiling which is also known as a cross vault or double barrel vault ceiling. Here, in this image, an array of groin vaulted ceilings forms an eye-catching detail which takes the design of the hallway to a whole new level.
- A dome vaulted ceiling comprises a flat ceiling with a hemispherical dome in the centre, like in this bathroom. Plater of Paris (POP) crown moulding differentiates the dome from the flat ceiling.
Which areas are most suitable for a vaulted ceiling?
- A vaulted ceiling is best suited for independent homes and farmhouses which are spacious and unlike conventional apartments do not have a height constraint.
- Most homeowners prefer to have the vaulted ceiling in the living room, within double-height spaces, the entrance foyer or the patio.
What are the advantages of a vaulted ceiling?
- A vaulted ceiling gives the feeling of openness and makes the home look more spacious.
- Vaulted ceilings form a dramatic design feature which adds a lot of character and infuses a sense of grandeur into the space. Also, the walls can incorporate tall windows which flood the interiors with natural light.
- As hot air rises and cool air comes down, spaces with vaulted ceilings are naturally cooler than the surrounding areas.
What are the disadvantages of a vaulted ceiling?
- They biggest disadvantage of a vaulted ceiling design is that it uses a lot of energy and results in extra air-conditioning costs for cooling the space.
- The great height of vaulted ceilings make it difficult to maintain and clean the exposed beams (if any). Also, it is difficult to paint the ceiling and change the light bulbs or fixtures.
- Vaulted ceilings result in higher construction costs.
- Another disadvantage is that tall spaces with vaulted ceilings lack warmth. Therefore, one can introduce timber elements and warm colour tones to infuse an element of warmth, as in this example.
- Vaulted ceilings can result in condensation on the tall windows and the growth of mould, especially in moisture-laden areas like the bathroom and kitchen.
How to illuminate a vaulted ceiling?
Read more:
6 High and Mighty Wooden Ceiling Designs
7 Ceiling Designs That Will Make You Look Up and Gasp
Tell us:
Do you have a vaulted ceiling in your home? We would love to see it. Share images in the Comments section below.
- Incorporate a layered lighting scheme for illuminating a vaulted ceiling. Go for a combination of pendant lights and recessed ceiling lights, like in this image.
- Consider recessed cove lighting or diffused lighting along the corners of the vaulted ceiling.
- Opt for adjustable track lights which can be used to aim lights in various directions or focus them on the accent features of the home.
Read more:
6 High and Mighty Wooden Ceiling Designs
7 Ceiling Designs That Will Make You Look Up and Gasp
Tell us:
Do you have a vaulted ceiling in your home? We would love to see it. Share images in the Comments section below.
Related Stories
Working with professionals
How to Find an Architect That's Right for You
Make the construction and renovation of your home a pleasant and memorable journey by selecting the right architect
Full Story
Indian Homes
11 Indian Homes That Revolve Around Courtyards
Take inspiration from these homes that make a solid case for courtyards in urban life
Full Story
Decorating Guides
Building Secrets to a Cool, Breezy Home for Hot Indian Summers
Get updated on climate-responsive design strategies for a home that stays naturally cool all year round
Full Story
Working with professionals
What's the Difference Between an Architect and a Civil Engineer?
We clear up the confusion between the professional roles and scope of work of an architect and a civil engineer
Full Story
Architecture
These Indian Homes Know How To Combat Harsh Climate
See how these homes by SPASM, Kumar Moorthy & Associates and JPLUSDARCHITECTS mitigate the ramifications of harsh climate ahead of time
Full Story
Decorating Guides
What Are the Biggest Challenges in Renovating an Old House?
Here are some common problems which may arise during the renovation of an old property
Full Story
Indian Homes
How to Beat the Summer Heat by Keeping the Roof Cool
Here are ways to cope with the high summer temperatures that heat the roof and the top floors of residential buildings
Full Story
Decorating Guides
How to Design a Home That is Not a Burden on the Environment
Incorporate smart details with simple lifestyle changes to create a home that is kind to the planet
Full Story
Architecture
What Is Kerala Architecture?
Let's explore what design elements constitute traditional Kerala house architecture
Full Story
Architecture
Expert Speak: What Are the Best Materials for Home Elevations?
Houzz checks in with an expert about the the most sturdy and adaptable materials for home facades
Full Story