Did you know that the Romans used intersecting barrel vaults to support the Pantheon? Vaulted ceilings have been used for ages, and a barrel vault ceiling comes with unique advantages.
However, when should you use this ceiling? In addition, how do you design to make this ceiling look its best?
Keep reading to learn more about this unique ceiling and tips on how to design with it.
A barrel vault ceiling is just one of many types of arched ceilings. It gets its name from the round, barrel-like shape that the ceiling makes. The barrel-like shape is created by having two intersecting barrel vaults.
A barrel vault ceiling is usually made out of wood, stone, or concrete. While wooden barrel vault ceilings are more common, you can also find them made out of concrete. Concrete barreled vaults are generally formed by the wooden or metal supports on the inside of the barrel and add support to the barrel shape.
This style of ceiling is commonly found in churches, as it adds to the grandeur and awe of the space. Smaller homes can also benefit from the design of this ceiling.
This style of ceiling is not one that can easily get built into existing structures. However, it's not impossible; you simply need someone with the know-how and enough time and resources.
Other challenges include the fact that these ceilings tend to be energy inefficient, and there are maintenance and repair issues. This is not a ceiling you can easily climb up on a ladder to paint or clean.
The barrel vault ceiling has a unique look to it. Because of this, some builders are a little hesitant to build this style of ceiling in their homes. However, you can easily design with this ceiling.
Clear lines help to keep the barrel vault ceiling from getting lost or competing with other elements in the room. You can use a strong color, or the ceiling can simply be clear. If a room has a lot of texture or patterns, this ceiling will stand out in your home.
If you're trying to create a modern design, you can use a more angular ceiling. This will create a more dynamic and visually stunning room.
However, if you want to use a barrel vault ceiling to create a more traditional design, you can use round designs with this ceiling. Windows that are arched or have round tops are a great way to have some round elements in the room. You can also use a round chandelier, light, or ceiling fan.
A barrel vault ceiling is often used in church ceilings and high ceilings. So, if you have a high ceiling, you can use a barrel vault ceiling to make the room feel taller and wider.
A barrel vault ceiling can make a space feel more open, as well. The height of the ceiling can also be achieved with the layout of the room. For example, you can use a raised platform with the right amount of seating.
If you want to add drama to the room, use a high ceiling with a barrel vault ceiling. A high ceiling and a barrel vault ceiling can create dramatic ceilings for the room and provide a sense of grandeur.
You can also use light colors to help make the room brighter.
If you want to make the room look larger and create the illusion of a higher ceiling, mirrors are a great way to accomplish this. You can use mirrors to create the appearance of a larger ceiling that rises to a point.
You can use floor-length mirrors to create the illusion of a larger, taller room. You can also use a mirror to reflect light around a room.
Lighting is an important element in most homes. Designing with a barrel vault ceiling gives you the opportunity to use different lighting to make the ceiling look better.
LED lighting is becoming more popular, and it can make the ceiling look more interesting. You can use this type of lighting to create a starlit effect.
Colors are a major part of the design. You can use the right paint colors to make the room feel warmer. Blues are a common color choice for a barrel vault ceiling.
However, you can paint a ceiling any color you want.
Using a darker paint color can make a ceiling appear taller. A light yellow color can add a warm glow to the room. Using a darker color in the room, you can use a lighter color to contrast with the darker tones.
Wood is a natural material that humans have been using for thousands of years. When you are designing with a barrel vault ceiling, wood is a great material to use.
You can use different types of wood, such as redwood, mahogany, or pine. You can also use other natural materials to make the room, such as stone or metal.
A barrel vault ceiling has the unique advantage of making your home look great. There are many designs you can implement to help this arch design stand out and open up your space.
Are you looking for interior design ideas for your space? Contact us today and let us dream up your perfect space with you.