Blog

Ceilings are often overlooked (pun intended) as an important element of interior design. But they play a big role with the appearance, functionality, and value of your home. We think Michaelangelo would agree. Higher ceilings, which are generally defined as ceilings that are more than eight feet, are becoming more popular in modern architecture, as they offer many advantages over standard or low ceilings. It doesn’t matter the height of your household or guests; we’re guessing they’d be more comfortable with a couple of feet or meters above them as you entertain or relax.

Sense of Space

Higher ceilings can create a more spacious and luxurious atmosphere, as they allow for more vertical space and openness. See the above statement – anybody working or spending quality time will feel far more at ease than if they’re in a more cramped space. Higher ceilings can also make a room look brighter and more inviting for fun gatherings with family and friends. It doesn’t matter what season it is and what the weather is outside, you’re automatically allowing additional light in. According to a study by the University of Minnesota, higher ceilings stimulate creativity, abstract thinking, and freedom. And all for far less than additional education! Who knew? You’re welcome from the team at Load Bearing Wall Pros.

Enhanced Natural Light and Ventilation

Another benefit of higher ceilings is that they can enhance the natural light and ventilation of a room. You can immediately decrease your costs related to that portion of any home renovation – which pays dividends over time. Think of all the time that you can now use on that fun project that you’ve been saving for a rainy day. (Or maybe an even sunnier day, given those high ceilings). They allow for larger windows and more sunlight, which can reduce the need for artificial lighting and save energy costs. 

Now, here’s the kicker, we buried the lead – you get both health and more money in your pocket (more in a minute). Natural light can also have health and wellness benefits, such as improving the circadian rhythm, boosting the immune system, and preventing seasonal affective disorder. So basically, they’re making you happier and healthier, and you’ll learn – even wealthier. 

Higher ceilings can improve the air circulation and quality of a room, which can lead to better health and reduced energy costs. They create more space for warm air to rise and cool air to sink, so you have a natural convection current that can regulate the temperature and humidity of the room. We think we can all agree that this is a major benefit, whether you’re feeling healthy or under the weather. Higher ceilings can also prevent the accumulation of dust, allergens, and pollutants – which we also all know are no fun during spring, fall (or even summer or winter depending on where you live).

Increased Property Value

A third benefit of higher ceilings that we mentioned earlier is more money in your pockets. They can increase the property value of your home exponentially, especially when done right. According to a study by the National Association of Home Builders, homes with nine foot ceilings or higher can sell for 6% more than homes with eight foot ceilings or lower. And that number only goes up from there if you do it right and have some fun with the design. We’ve got you covered with inspiration. 

Customization and Creative Design Opportunities

Finally – A fourth benefit of higher ceilings is that they can provide more customization and creative design opportunities for your home. Beyond the Pinterest board above, here are some of our favorites. You get to personalize your space to a greater extent, and express your personality and taste. A lot of our customers, including those that already have high ceilings, or are moving in to a new home, are daunted by the idea of this aspect of their home’s design. Never fear with Load Bearing Pros.

Here are some ideas:

• Loft spaces: You can create loft spaces that can serve as additional bedrooms, offices, or storage areas, and that can add more functionality and charm to your home. It’s basically additional square footage for a much lower cost and you’ll add so much value to your property.
• Intricate lighting fixtures: You can install intricate lighting fixtures, such as pendant lights, recessed lights, or skylights, that can create different moods and effects, and that can highlight the beauty and height of your ceilings. Just make sure you work with a pro and do your research first. (That goes for all of these ideas).
• Artwork and accessories: You can display artwork and accessories, such as paintings, sculptures, or plants, that can add more color and character to your rooms, and that can draw attention to the vertical dimension of your space. We’ve noticed these trends with our customers.

Challenges and Considerations

As with any decision related to a place you hope to call home, two quick things to have in your back pocket:

• Heating costs: Higher ceilings can increase the heating costs of your home, as they can create more space for heat to escape and require more energy to warm up. And we don’t want to skimp on these – Load Bearing Pros wants you to remain warm and comfortable every day of the year. But! You can mitigate this by installing proper insulation, using energy-efficient heating systems, or adding rugs or curtains to retain heat.
• Construction expenses: Higher ceilings can increase the construction expenses of your home, as they can require more materials, labor, and time to build. The key word here is ‘can’. Work with the right group. You can reduce this by planning and budgeting carefully, choosing affordable and durable materials, or hiring a reputable and experienced contractor. (Ahem, we’re here).

If you are thinking of designing or remodeling your home, you should consider increasing the height of your ceilings, and see how it can transform your living space and enhance your lifestyle. Reach out here or by phone and we can help determine what makes sense for you.