5 ways to style vaulted walls

The last two e-designs I’ve worked on have, coincidentally, included requests for help with rooms with vaulted ceilings by clients who were at a loss as to how to style their soaring walls.  This is a design dilemma I can certainly relate to as my own living room, kitchen and breakfast nook are all open to one another beneath vaulted ceilings, as well. (Those framed nautical charts above my sofa are ginormous for a good reason!) My typical standby is to hang a fabulous chandelier, an oversize piece of artwork or a gallery wall, but I thought it would be fun to show a few other options, as well, especially since vaulted ceilings are popping up more and more in new homes and, chances are you are stumped as to what to do with them, too!

1.  HANG A STATEMENT CHANDELIER.  Not only is a fabulous chandelier a beautiful focal point in any room, but it can also help delineate spaces when two or three rooms are all open to one.  Bigger is always better here – a small chandelier will get swallowed up and look ridiculous.

2.  OVERSIZE ARTWORK. Another way to make a great impact in any room is with oversize art or photographic prints, but especially in rooms with vaulted ceilings.  This is one of my favorite ways to add drama, color, texture and personalization while at the same time making good use of all that wall space!

3.  FLOOR-TO-CEILING GALLERY WALL.  If an oversize piece of art isn’t in the budget, hanging a series of prints, photographs and favorite artwork is another great option and can have the same impact.  Mix up frame shapes, sizes and finishes and add artwork with pops of color or keep everything black and white for a little drama. 

(David Netto)

4.  BUILT-INS.  The problem with buying certain pieces of furniture for rooms with vaulted ceilings is that they can look tiny in the space.  We had the same problem when looking for a hutch for our breakfast nook, so we had one made.  At almost 9 feet tall, it really makes a statement and doesn’t look like it belongs in a dollhouse AND we ended up spending less money to have one made than it would have cost to have found something that big.  Built-in bookcases are another great option – they really define a space, add interest and are a beautiful focal point.

(Muskoka Living)

5.  DECORATIVE MOULDING.  Beadboard, wood beams, shiplap and board and batten look AMAZING on vaulted ceilings, but they tend to be a pricey endeavor.  The best (and easiest) way to save a little money and not make a huge mess is to do it while you’re building your house.  The result is priceless.

(HGTV Dream House 2015)

What are some of your ways to style walls in rooms with vaulted ceilings?