Vaulted Ceilings – Vaulted ceilings are any elevated ceiling. It’s the generic term for elevated ceilings – cathedral, coffer, cove and shed ceilings fall into this category. Flat and tall ceilings aren’t typically referenced as vaulted, but can be. The word vaulted is derived from the Latin word volvo, which means roll or tumble – I have no idea how that relates to a ceiling.
Cathedral Ceilings – If your open space follows the pitch of the roof and has equally sloping sides (equal=equal) meeting in the middle of the room then it is likely a cathedral ceiling. Popular since the Middle Ages a cathedral ceiling is a symmetrical vaulted ceiling with a center point higher than the walls. They have equal sloping sides meeting in the middle of a room at a ridge and the interior angle typically has the same pitch as the outside roof structure. This dramatic and beautiful ceiling conveys the overall perception of big room size and reaching to the top of the sky. The word cathedral is derived from the Greek word kathedra, which means throne or elevated seat – now that makes sense.
Shed Ceilings – A shed ceiling is an asymetric (equal=not-equal) vaulted ceiling with a center point higher than the walls and one wall of the room is taller than the opposing wall. They can have unequal sloping sides, a single sloping side, or a curved/arched slope. The interior angles usually don’t have the same pitch as the roof structure but with a simple framing change they can create a grand allure and the overall perception that the room is larger and more spacious than it really is.
Coffered Ceilings – One of my favorites, coffered ceilings come in numerous styles and finishes from rich hard woods to simple painted drywall surfaces. The box like structure can be very luxurious based upon the type of finish selected. If your home has the ceiling height to work with, coffers are guaranteed to get that ‘wow’ from someone entering the room. In MetroWest you can also find the “Wellesley coffer” it’s tighter and smaller proportions can work in shorter ceiling heights.
Cove (Curved) Ceilings – Often found in homes around here from the early 1900’s era. The playful curves of these types of vaulted ceilings provide a classic and luxurious look and are not nearly as difficult to create as would first appear. This look is best when the ceiling has a minimum height of 10 feet to provide a large enough radius for the transition from ceiling to wall. Used mostly in hallways, galleries and pool structures, cove ceilings have a universal appeal that often brings a smile.
Tray Ceilings – In the older bigger homes in MetroWest Boston tray ceilings are commonly used in bedrooms with dramatic up-lighting so there’s something pretty to look at when you’re in bed. We also see tray ceilings in dining rooms to add some shadows and boujie up the rooms. They complicate the framing and make a great dust collector so newer houses have flat ceilings instead.
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For more info on these cool architectural styles click here.
People also ask about other House Styles of New England click here
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