Which Ceiling Type Fits Your Style?

Fratantoni Design • December 22, 2020

One of the best opportunities for designing your own home is complete customization. There are lots of ways you can customize your build through tile designs, countertop selections, the entire layout, etc. One way to elevate the interior of your home is by designing unconventional ceiling types. There are many different types of ceilings that can add dimension and architectural interest to your space.

The Various Ceiling Types

Tray Ceiling

A tray ceiling is a raised central inset. This is typically a standard 9-foot ceiling with the middle section raised about one foot higher to create an illusion the room is taller. We’ve designed tray ceilings with lights or specialty molding to add interest.

A bedroom with a four poster bed , a fireplace , and a chandelier.

Dome Ceiling

A dome ceiling is essentially the same idea as a tray ceiling; however, the middle section forms into a dome as opposed to flat. This accentuates the middle & heightens the room dramatically.

A living room with a couch , desk , television and fireplace.

Coffered Ceiling

A coffered ceiling is one of our favorites to do at Fratantoni Luxury Estates. This type of ceiling uses 3-dimensional wood panels to add depth & drama while requiring expert carpentry & specialized installation. We find that coffered ceilings are the best way to create the most impressive design and make the space more custom.

A dining room with a table and chairs and a fish tank on the wall

Vaulted Ceilings

A vaulted ceiling features a higher arch that draws the eyes upward. This type is typically suited for larger homes and adds an open feeling. There are a few different types of vaulted ceilings that can elevate a space.

For example, a cathedral vaulted ceiling has symmetrical sloping sides that meet at a point in the middle. We see these often in church architecture.

A living room with a couch and a coffee table

A barrel-vaulted ceiling is a curved arch built under the rafters of the home. This is known to be inspired by European style and often seen covered in brick.

A kitchen with a large island in the middle of it

A groin-vaulted ceiling consists of two-barrel vaults intersecting at 90-degrees creating outward-bounding ribs from the corners of the room. We use these incredible ceilings for smaller spaces such as a hallway or foyer because it adds dimension to the space.

A long hallway with a table in the middle and a lantern hanging from the ceiling.

Exposed Beams Ceilings

An exposed beam ceiling is exactly as it sounds. It’s when we use wooden beams as both a structural & decorative piece. Beams used to add rustic charm to any space; however, we’ve found recently that a beamed ceiling can fit into contemporary spaces depending on the material and colors.