12 Design Ideas for Exposed Wooden Beams

I know I’ve seen plenty of exposed wooden beams on Fixer Upper that inspired me–how about you? There’s just something about them that really warms up a space! In hopes of inspiring you today, I’ve rounded up 12 design ideas for exposed wooden beams.

1.Exposed beam ceilings can be luxurious, as in this example of an elegant living room.

2. The vaulted ceiling in this room is done entirely in natural wood. It makes a spectacular backdrop against the white fireplace and walls.

3. This living room features exposed beams with a very rustic finish. They really stand out against the red tile floors and are set off by lots of natural light.

4. Exposed wooden beams can live dramatically well in even a contemporary space. They offer a warmth you can’t get anywhere else.

5. This living room is proof positive that your exposed wooden beams don’t have to stand out. They can blend beautifully into the color scheme of your home, yet still provide interest and warmth to the space.

6. In another example, you can see that the beams in this vaulted ceiling are painted the same color as the walls and ceiling, yet they provide interest and structure that draws your eye upward.

7. Here is what happens when you match the exposed beams in your ceiling to the tone of hardwood floors. The dark wood is what ties the whole room together.

8. A rustic cabin is one of the more common uses for exposed beams. It just wouldn’t be quite the same if they weren’t there!

9. In a room with lots of natural light from large windows like this one, you can get away with the dark beams that stand out in contrast to the white ceiling.

10. Here’s another example of the rich contrast that sets off a contemporary white room with darker beams and lots of natural light.

11. The fireplace is the focal point of this room, but the exposed wooden beams serve to effectively draw your eye right to it!

12. Here’s a wonderful example of how effectively exposed logs can be used in a ceiling, instead of squared-off beams. I love the high contrast between the logs and the white ceiling. Plus, the log beams are the perfect companion for the rustic stone walls in this room.