Wood beam ceilings can add beautiful architectural interest and a sense of drama to any kitchen. This week we’re showing off four stunning kitchens that utilize exposed wood beams in creative and eye-catching ways. From traditional to modern, these wood beam ceilings help define each kitchen’s unique style.
Rustic Farmhouse Charm
This spacious farmhouse kitchen gets its cozy, rustic feel from the exposed wood beam ceiling. Using naturally unfinished wooden beams, installed in a clean symmetrical pattern, the ceiling in this kitchen creates the feeling of being inside a classic barn or cabin. Wood floors and rustic cabinetry and island base further complement the reclaimed wood beam ceiling.
- The unfinished, natural look of the wood beams adds authenticity and character. Staining or painting the beams would diminish their rustic vibe.
- Leaving ample space between each beam prevents the ceiling from feeling too heavy or closed in.
- Alternating the direction of the beams adds subtle interest and guides the eye across the ceiling.
- Exposed wood ceilings work very well with other farmhouse elements like antique lighting and distressed wood furniture.
To achieve a similar look, using reclaimed beams or installing wood planks in a beam style can replicate the rustic aesthetic. Just be sure to leave enough breathing room between each faux beam.
Crisp & Modern
Contrary to popular belief, wood beam ceilings aren’t just for rustic spaces. This kitchen goes in a more contemporary direction with its clean-lined wood beam ceiling.
- The beams are thinner and more narrowly spaced than a typical exposed beam ceiling. This gives them a neater, more streamlined appearance.
- Staining the beams a rich espresso brown lends a sophisticated, almost modern touch.
- The dark wood beams contrast beautifully with the bright white ceiling and walls. This crisp, contrasting combo feels fresh.
- The linear nature of the beams complements the minimalist kitchen aesthetic. The straight lines and lack of ornamentation keep the look perfectly paired down.
Thinner, stained beams can provide graceful definition in any contemporary kitchen. Keeping the surrounding walls and ceiling a bright white helps the beams stand out even more.
Grand and Vaulted
Utilizing wood beams in a spacious, vaulted ceiling can create quite a spectacular, grand aesthetic. The A-frame roofline allows these wooden beams to shine.
- Placing the beams directly up against the sloped sides draws the eye all the way up to the tall ceiling peaks.
- The varying heights and lengths of the beams create appealing asymmetry and a dynamic look.
- Staining the beams in a rich brown enhances their crisp, straight lines.
- The small peak windows and skylights keep the vaulted area from feeling too dark or closed in.
When dealing with high, angled ceilings, exposed beams can help add character. Let the architecture dictate where the beams are placed. Keeping them up against the sloping roofline makes the ceiling feel cohesive.
Warm and Inviting
Nothing instantly makes a kitchen feel cozy quite like exposed wood beams on the ceiling. The beams in this kitchen create a welcoming, cottage-like atmosphere.
- Placing the beams running perpendicular to the length of the kitchen helps draw the eye across the entire space.
- The beams are pre-stained in a lighter natural wood tone to warm up the room without going too dark.
- Allowing the wood grain to remain visible gives the reclaimed beams more natural texture.
- Small pendant lights hung at different heights complement the rustic beams beautifully.
Exposed wood ceilings can make any kitchen cozier. Opt for wider beams stained in lighter, warmer wood tones. The more natural wood grain you can retain, the more charming and inviting the beams will feel overhead.
Key Considerations for Wood Beam Ceilings
Wood beam ceilings lend rustic warmth, textural interest, and architectural definition to kitchen spaces. Keep these tips in mind:
- Match the style of the beams to the overall aesthetic you want—rustic, modern, traditional, etc.
- Consider beam size, spacing, and direction carefully. Be sure they enhance the kitchen layout.
- Disguise wiring and HVAC by running those elements behind or in between beams.
- Factor in the ceiling height. Beams can make low ceilings feel more compressed.
- Staining or painting beams helps blend them into contemporary kitchens. Natural works for traditional/rustic rooms.
- Distressed, reclaimed beams boast the most charm. But you can install new wood planks in a “beam” formation too.
- Balance exposed beams with plenty of lighting so the kitchen isn’t too dark. Add skylights or peak windows if possible.
With thoughtful planning, exposed wood beams can add show-stopping style in your kitchen. This popular ceiling treatment has stood the test of time for good reason—the warmth, texture, and interest beams provide are unmatched.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wood Beam Ceilings
What is the purpose of wood beams on ceilings?
Exposed wood beams serve several purposes. They can provide structural reinforcement and support for the roof. Beams add architectural interest and style to a room. They also create visual contrast between the ceiling and walls.
What kind of wood is best for ceiling beams?
Oak is one of the best woods for exposed beams thanks to its strength, hardness, and appealing grain pattern. Other top wood choices include Douglas fir, pine, cedar, and cypress. The beams can have a natural stained look or be painted to match the ceiling.
Should you paint exposed ceiling beams?
It depends on the look you want. Painting wood beams white or a light color helps them blend into a contemporary space. Staining beams a warmer wood tone enhances the natural grain and feels more rustic. Leaving beams an unfinished natural wood can be beautiful too.
Do exposed beams make a room look bigger or smaller?
Exposed beams usually make rooms feel bigger by drawing the eye upward and creating a sense of airiness. Beams running perpendicular to the room’s length can also make it appear wider and more expansive. Just be wary of low ceilings, where beams can feel oppressive.
How much weight can exposed beams support?
It depends on the size and type of wood used. A 6″ x 10″ oak beam can support up to 15,000 lbs. Rebar or steel beams may be installed within wood beams to reinforce them without changing their appearance. Consult an engineer to determine weight capacity.
Should you expose beams in an old house?
Sometimes it’s best to leave beams enclosed in older homes. Exposing them can reduce insulation and air flow. But for protected interior rooms it often is safe. Many old homes were built with beams sized to be optionally exposed. Consult a structural engineer before uncovering beams.
Conclusion
The right wood beam ceiling can infuse any kitchen with style, visual interest, and architectural flair. Whether going for a cozy cottage look or modern industrial vibe, exposed wood beams rarely disappoint. Just be sure to thoughtfully consider the beam size, direction, and stain that best suits your space. With proper planning and placement, you can craft a show-stopping kitchen that wows with its wood beam ceiling.
