Renovating Your Ceiling!

 In terms of renovation projects, most people don't look up. A kitchen? Of course. The bathroom. Obviously. Paint and built in cabinets? Sure. But renovating your ceiling? 

I'm actually seeing it more and more and while it won't be for everyone, spending some money on the "5th wall" can actually reap serious benefits for some homes. 

The plan? Taking down your current dropped drywall or plaster and opening up the ceiling to expose the joists above. 

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If you have a mid-century home with low ceilings, or a historical farmhouse with the same, this may be a worthwhile endeavor, not only to add visual appeal but to produce the effect of high ceilings and more space. 

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Common design ideas are to just open it up and leave it rustic, paint the underside of the floorboards above while leaving the beams, as above, spraying it all one color, often white, to keep things light, or adding new wood tones, like below. 

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Of course, there are some considerations with opening up your ceiling. Is there a room above? Will sound carry more if there is? Are there major ducts or electrical that need to be moved? Sometimes even a small opening can help a space feel larger, or more architecturally interesting, and all electrical and plumbing can be contained to the "soffits" 

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The effect is, of course, rather stunning whether your house be a mid-century modern or a rustic farmhouse. And, for those without low ceilings, of course, adding new beams to the existing ceiling is a wonderful alternative to give a similar look if height isn't the goal. 

Regardless, its a good reminder to not forget the ceiling in your next decor or remodel project!