What Is a Vaulted Ceiling?

Vaulted Ceiling

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. There are affiliate links in this post. This means that at no cost to you, I will receive a commission if you purchase through my link. I will only ever promote the products and services that I trust and 100% recommend. You may read my full disclosure policy for more information. Thank you for supporting my business in this way.

In architectural terms, a vaulted ceiling is any ceiling that is built with a self-supporting arch. Many designers consider any ceiling that is higher than 8 feet to be a vaulted ceiling. And while their function is a hot topic in the design world today — some designers eschew vaulted and cathedral ceilings for their energy-wasting properties — the old-fashioned charm and grandiose beauty of this ceiling type cannot be overlooked.

See also: The Contemporary Charm of Clerestory Windows

The History of Vaulted Ceilings

Bath Abbey

Vaulted ceilings have been around for centuries: in fact, the term “vault” dates back to the early 1300s. It can be literally translated to mean an arched roof or chamber. In architectural terms, a vault is an arch that extends over an open area. 

While the earliest vaulted ceilings are found in Egyptian granaries, they became especially popular during Roman times and can still be found in many Greek buildings today — including the Roman Pantheon. Another famous building with a vaulted ceiling is the Bath Abbey in England, built in the early 1500s. It features a stone fan vault built by Robert and William Vertue. 

A Guide to Different Vaulted Ceiling Styles

Vaulted ceilings have long been a common design feature in churches, basilicas, temples, and government buildings. These are the 5 most popular styles that you are likely to encounter. 

1. Barrel Vault

Vatican Museum

The barrel vault is by far the most popular type of vaulted ceiling, and it’s also the earliest — it dates as far back as ancient Egyptian times. You may hear this type of ceiling referred to as a tunnel vault or wagon vault as well. Often found in hallways, the barrel vault consists of one single arch that covers the whole room. It is supported by strong walls or by an adjacent vault. 

2. Groin Vault

Santa Maria del Carmelo

When two barrel vaults connect at a right angle, creating an edge, this is considered a groin vault. This ceiling style came into form in Roman times, a well-known example can be seen at the Santa Maria del Carmelo Roman Catholic church in Venice. Groin vaults are often featured in hallways or entryways and held up by supporting columns. 

3. Dome Vault

Montreal Geodesic Dome

A dome vault is created when multiple arches extend from a central axis. Frequently used by Renaissance and Baroque builders, dome vaults are generally made up of a combination of a flat ceiling and a recessed dome. The Temple of Mercury in Italy is a famous example of a building with a dome vault.

In recent years, designers have been increasingly attracted to the geodesic dome, a modern twist on the dome vault that plants the dome directly on the ground. 

4. Rib Vault

The rib vault is most commonly found in Gothic architecture. A thin, arched framework of ribs criss-cross the ceiling in a variety of patterns, creating a small, domed look with pointed arches. Rib vaults were first used in Islamic buildings, then subsequently in Romanesque and finally, Gothic architecture. The complicated architectural design transfers the weight of the ceiling onto columns, allowing designers to create taller buildings with bigger windows.

5. Fan Vault

Gloucester Cathedral

This ceiling style is formed when multiple ribs are clustered together in a fan pattern. A twist on the rib vault, fan vaults also became popular during Gothic times. Today, they can be found in many buildings in England, including the famous Bath Abbey and the Gloucester Cathedral. 

Benefits and Drawbacks of a Vaulted Ceiling

While vaults are a timeless look, the style is not restricted to historical buildings and grand palaces. They’re also an excellent way to elevate the look of a residential home. A vaulted ceiling can make your room look and feel larger, by creating a sweeping, airy appearance. They can be used in foyers and family rooms to create an open-concept feel, or even kitchens and master bedrooms for an elaborate distinction.

The downside to a vaulted ceiling is the fact that their size can make it difficult to clean. They can also be costly to repair. Additionally, the height of the ceiling often translates to a higher energy bill, which is unattractive to many homeowners. 

Vaulted Ceilings and Energy Efficiency

Vaulted ceilings are almost certain to increase the energy bills in your home. However, there are ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency even with the high ceiling. 

You can do this by installing a ceiling fan. Make sure to take full advantage of your fan by adjusting its direction in the summer and winter months. Another way to improve energy efficiency year-round is by ensuring that your ceiling is outfitted with the proper insulation. 

Consider the Budget: Affordable Alternatives

Vaulted ceilings are not the best choice for homeowners on a tight budget. They can add anywhere from $18,000 - $25,000 on to the cost of your remodel. Then, you will likely pay more for utility bills after the ceiling is complete. 

If you like the grandiose look of a vaulted ceiling but are worried about the cost, try a tray or coffered ceiling. You can even install transom windows or clerestory windows to achieve a similarly open-concept look with the enhancement of natural light. 

Which Room Should I Vault?

You can vault almost any room in your house: the great room, the kitchen, a master bedroom, master bath, the living room, or a foyer. The most important consideration involves the layout of your house. Before you get your heart set on a vaulted ceiling, consult with an architect and a contractor to make sure your home has the necessary framing, piping, and ductwork to accommodate the renovation.

Determine if a Vaulted Ceiling is Right for You

Vaulted ceilings have a long, storied history, and they are not going anywhere. This dramatic ceiling trend has lasted for centuries and graced some of the world’s most iconic buildings. If you’re wondering whether a vaulted ceiling will be a good choice for your home, talk to an architect in your area to see what might be possible.

Done right, a vaulted ceiling can bring drama and elegance to your home, letting in plenty of natural light and making an unforgettable statement. 

Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C