Ceilings are the unsung hero of home design, often overlooked, they play a crucial role in the way that we perceive space and enjoy light. For those looking to make the most of their space and add a sense of occasion that transcends traditional flat ceiling design, raked ceilings are an enticing architectural choice.

Adding more than just a sense of occasion or an aesthetic upgrade, a raked ceiling can effectively transform the way that light and air travel through a room. Beyond the ‘wow factor’, raked ceilings also add a level of functionality by improving air circulation, temperature control, and adding new vertical space to your living areas. 

Table of contents:

• What is a raked ceiling?
• Benefits of a raked ceiling
• Improved airflow
• Added space & height
• Enhance light
• Added property value
• Raked ceiling costs & considerations
• Tips for choosing a raked ceiling

What is a raked ceiling? 

Raked ceilings, otherwise known as a pitched, incline, or cathedral-style ceiling, is defined by an angled or sloping ceiling. For homes and commercial spaces, raked ceilings create a sense of grandeur and add a layer of architectural elegance to create a sense of space, increase light, and add visual appeal.

Unlike a traditional ceiling which sits flat, a raked ceiling makes use of the space above to provide additional space to a room which creates a sense of spaciousness. From an investment perspective, raked ceilings can help to increase the value of a home by adding additional ceiling height to rooms.

In Australia, the National Construction Code provides a standard ceiling height of 2400mm for living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. Changes to the shape of the ceiling through a raked design can effectively increase ceilings to a high point around 300 mm - 400 mm higher than the national standard adding a sense of space and light.

Benefits of a raked ceiling 

When it comes to adding a raked ceiling to your home or living spaces, there are a number of important benefits, including:

Improved airflow: Raked ceilings promote greater air circulation in the room and allow for additional accessories such as fans and air conditioners to effectively circulate air throughout the room. For houses in warmer climates, the improved airflow is one of the main benefits of raked ceiling design. 

Added light & space: Raked ceilings are an effective way to add a lighter and more perceived sense of space to any room. Thanks to the elevated high point, light is able to travel through the room with ease and create a more ‘airy’ and lighter feeling.

Added space & height: When it comes to raked ceilings, they are not just an architectural charm – they also add a new level of practicality to rooms. 

Enhance light: High ceilings allow builders and designers to incorporate larger windows or skylights into the design of a room. Raked ceilings also help to reflect natural and artificial light to make spaces more welcoming and effectively reduce the light needed in a space.

Added value: High ceilings are a selling point for many buyers, which means that raked ceilings are an effective way to increase the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers when it comes time to sell. 

Raked ceiling costs & considerations

As you may expect, the cost to install a raked ceiling is typically more expensive than an equivalent flat ceiling design. Raked ceiling designs require more materials and labour to construct which can add to your overall costs. Of course, the value added to your property can far outweigh the investment required to add them, so it’s important to weigh up the overall value proposition – not just the cost outlay when building. 

Tips for choosing a raked ceiling

Raked ceilings typically come in two options – a singular rake where the highest point of the ceiling meets at one side of the room. Or a double-raked ceiling that meets in the centre point like a cathedral or a tent. Both styles have their own unique features and benefits, however, if you’re looking for a ‘wow factor’, a double-raked ceiling is a great way to add a sense of occasion to your living spaces.