What is the standard ceiling height? This is one smart question that you should ask when planning your home building project. People often think about the square footage but tend to forget that the ceiling also defines the spaciousness of a house. While the low ceiling gives a sense of coziness and calm, they can also make a room feel dark and cramped. However, the high ceilings create an airy and light feeling. Also, it gives a stylish magnificence look to entryways.
Therefore, when planning your ceiling options, it is better to talk to your builder before committing to a design. If you fail to discuss your ceiling height options, they might give you the ordinary 9-foot ceiling on the first floor and 8-foot on the second. Besides, you should also consider your budget for the project, whether it is a renovation or building a new house. This goes a long way in choosing your house designs.
It is an exciting task to choose the ceiling designs for your house. However, with the various new ceiling styles, you might get confused and frustrated during this process. We are here to help you know the different construction ceiling heights and various ceiling styles in the construction market today.
Traditional 8-Foot Ceilings
Back in the 1970s and 1980s, eight-foot ceilings were the average standards. One reason is that the timber was mostly eight feet in length. So for the eight-foot ceilings made sense for houses constructed with timber frame. Besides, there was a shortage of energy to cater to the heating and cooling needs of every household. Higher ceilings equal to the high energy required to sustain the space. Therefore, low ceilings were a shortcut to reduce the interior space, thereby cutting the heating and cooling costs. However, the low ceilings make the houses look cramped and stuffy.
The good news is that heating and cooling systems have improved, and now the eight-foot ceilings are outdated. Therefore, you can go for higher ceilings if you wish. However, it is in your best interest to discuss with your contractor if you have concerns about the high energy costs that come with high ceilings. Although the eight-foot ceilings are dated, several houses still have low ceilings in the entryway. Furthermore, the homes with the eight-foot ceilings also have vaulted ceiling and skylights on the first floor to open up space and add natural light. This move is to compensate for the low ceiling height, thereby increasing the house value.
Today’s 9-Foot Ceiling
Today, standard ceiling height in new homes is nine-foot on the first floor and eight-foot on the second. This is the standard ceiling height, and many builders might assume that you want the same. Therefore, ensure to put down your desired ceiling height in your contract, and discuss any additional costs before you start your project to avoid any inconveniences. You can add the coffered type of ceiling to your space to provide a three-dimensional look. Also, installing a tray ceiling to a nine-foot area is an eye-catching feature.
10-12 Feet High Beyond the Industry Standard
Nowadays, it is not uncommon to have up to 10-2 feet ceilings. Furthermore, many designs involve using different ceiling heights for different rooms in a house. This design allows you to be creative with your space by using various eye-catching features such as paints and artwork.
High Luxurious Ceilings Above 13 Feet
With the different architectural styles, it is possible to achieve 13 feet and higher ceilings. From the traditional mansions to the new modern custom-built homes, the possibilities are endless. With the soaring ceilings above, the house adds a beautiful grandeur look to staircases, entryways, and living rooms. It offers different options on how you can utilize the space. You can use various design features such as skylights and massive chandeliers to reveal outstanding craftsmanship.
The common ceiling styles for this high ceiling heights have vaulted and cathedral ceilings. Work with your builder to know the actual measurements of the cathedral or vaulted ceiling suitable for your space. When considering 13 feet or more ceiling height, be aware of its downsides such as the high construction costs and energy requirement.
Ceiling Heights by Rooms
There are different ceiling heights for various purposes of the rooms. While bathrooms, closets, and hallways have lower ceilings compared to bedrooms and living rooms, entryways have the tallest ceilings.
- The living rooms: This is the main area for recreation purposes. Therefore, space should not be less than 9-feet and 6 inches. However, where there is an air conditioning system, the ceiling height should be at least 7 feet and 6 inches.
- The kitchen: Being a central area that is continuously used, it should be at least 9 feet 6 inches or 2.75m.
- A bedroom: Since it is a place of relaxation, the standard ceiling height is 7 feet 6 inches or 2.3m.
- A storeroom: It may be attached to the kitchen area. Its ceiling height is not less than 7 feet 6 inches.
- Bathroom and toilet: It usually comes with a bathtub and a shower. You will need a minimum ceiling height of 7 feet 6 inches.
- Garage: This is an area of keeping tools, equipment, and even vehicle. The ceiling height should be 7 feet and above.
- Mezzanine floor: This is a floor between two main levels that is not counted on any main floors of a building. The minimum height from the ground floor to the mezzanine floor is 14 feet 4meters. However, the mezzanine height depends on what you intend to use it for. The height could be 1.5m.
- When it comes to the basement, the minimum ceiling height should be 7 feet 10 feet.
Wrap Up
The standard ceiling height has evolved over the years to fit the needs of people. Having a standard ceiling height for your house ensures proper lighting, good ventilation, and comfort. Furthermore, it allows for a systematic growth of buildings and utilization of spaces. However, the average ceiling height varies from one country to another and is mainly based on one’s preference. Therefore, to be able to choose the perfect height for your home, you should understand the role of different ceiling types and the height minimums.
