Exposed beams add a touch of warmth, character, and architectural interest to any space. But if installing solid beams of aged wood is beyond your budget or skill set, faux wood beams are an attractive alternative. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and available in various styles and finishes, offering all the charm of real wood beams without the drawbacks.
In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities of faux wood beams, from basic design considerations to inspiring real-world examples.
The Basics of Faux Wood Beams
Faux wood beams offer the look of real wood beams without the weight, expense, and installation challenges. Crafted from materials like high-density polyurethane foam or lightweight wood, they provide a versatile and affordable way to transform your home, whether you’re drawn to a rustic farmhouse aesthetic or a sleek modern look.
Here are some key principles to keep in mind when incorporating faux wood beams into your design.
Scale and Proportion
The size and spacing of your faux wood beams can dramatically impact the feel of your room. Consider the height of your ceilings, the size of your space, and the desired spacing between beams to create a visually balanced design.
- Ceiling height: In rooms with low ceilings, opt for narrower beams to avoid a cramped feeling. For high ceilings, wider beams can create a dramatic statement.
- Room size: Consider the overall dimensions of the room. In a small space, a few beams can be enough to add visual interest, while larger rooms might benefit from a more extensive beam layout.
- Beam spacing: The spacing between beams can affect the overall feel of the room. Closer spacing can create a cozy, intimate atmosphere, while wider spacing feels more open and airy.
- Beam length: Most faux wood beams come in standard lengths, but you can often order custom sizes if needed.
Placement and Arrangement
Where you place your beams can be just as important as their size. While installing wood beams on the ceiling is the most common choice, faux wood beams can also add interest to walls, furniture, and even outdoor spaces.
- Ceiling grid: A classic grid arrangement on the ceiling adds symmetry and order, ideal for traditional or formal spaces
- Central beam: A single, bold beam along the ceiling draws the eye upward and creates a focal point in the room
- Asymmetrical layout: Arrange the beams asymmetrically for a more organic and dynamic look
- Accent wall: Create a stunning backdrop with a vertical or horizontal arrangement of faux wood beams
- Visual divider: Use beams to subtly define zones within an open floor plan or to break up a large, blank wall
- Door and window frames: Frame doorways and windows with faux wood beams to add architectural detail and warmth
- Outdoor spaces: Use faux wood beams in covered patios, pergolas, and outdoor kitchens
- Custom furniture: Incorporate faux wood beams into custom furniture pieces like headboards, tables, benches, or shelving units
- Lighting integration: Integrate lighting fixtures, such as LED strip lighting or recessed lights, into the beams for a unique and functional design element
Material, Style, and Finish
Faux wood beams come in a wide array of materials, styles, and finishes to align with your desired aesthetic and the overall design of your space.
- Material composition: Faux wood beams are typically made from DIY-friendly polyurethane foam or
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), making them lightweight, durable, and resistant to warping and cracking. Real wood is more expensive and requires more expertise to install. - Texture: Some faux wood beams have a smooth finish, while others mimic the natural texture of wood grain. Consider the desired feel and look of your space when choosing a texture.
- Rustic vs. modern: Faux wood beams are available in a wide range of styles, from rough-hewn and distressed to sleek and modern. Choose a style that complements your overall design scheme.
- Color and stain: Faux wood beams can be painted or stained to match your existing wood tones or flooring. Alternatively, you can choose a bolder color for contrast.
How To Use Faux Wood Beams
With a little creativity, you can find endless ways to use faux wood beams to elevate your design and create a space that’s uniquely yours. Here are a few suggestions for incorporating them into your home:
- Create the illusion of higher ceilings: In rooms with low ceilings, install narrower faux wood beams painted in a lighter color than the ceiling. This creates a visual trick that draws the eye upward, making the space feel taller and more airy. Consider a coffered ceiling design, where beams create recessed panels, adding depth and dimension to the ceiling while maintaining an open, airy feel.
- Add architectural interest and focal points: A single, large faux wood beam running across a ceiling can create a dramatic statement piece and serve as a focal point for the room. Use crisscrossing beams in a grid pattern to add visual interest and break up a large, monotonous ceiling. Introduce beams perpendicular to existing ceiling beams to create a coffered effect, adding depth and texture.
- Define spaces within an open floor plan: In open-concept homes, faux wood beams can be strategically placed to delineate different functional areas without the need for walls. For example, a beam can visually separate a dining area from a living room or a kitchen from a family room. Consider using beams of different widths or colors to subtly differentiate zones within the open space.
- Warm up a modern aesthetic: The organic texture of wood, even in faux form, can soften the sharp lines and minimalist feel of a modern space. Introduce a few rustic beams in a contemporary living room to add warmth and character without overwhelming the design. Pair faux wood beams with metal accents or industrial-style lighting for an eclectic, modern-industrial look.
- Enhance a particular style: Faux wood beams cater to various design tastes. For a rustic farmhouse, choose distressed beams in natural tones. Opt for smooth, painted beams for a traditional feel. Weathered beams with exposed hardware give industrial chic vibes, while darker, hand-hewn beams with a patina create a Mediterranean ambiance.
- Conceal flaws or imperfections: Faux wood beams can cleverly hide unsightly elements like cracks in the ceiling, uneven surfaces, or exposed wiring. Use beams to cover up outdated popcorn ceilings or stippled textures. Strategically placed beams can also camouflage seams between different ceiling materials.
5 Ideas for Faux Wood Beams From Real Projects
We asked five home bloggers to share their ideas for incorporating the wood-beam look affordably. From period-style bathrooms to rustic kitchens, these homeowner projects showcase the versatility of faux wood beams—and the dramatic impact they can have on a room.
Period-Style Primary Bath
Traci from Beneath My Heart fell in love with the look of ceiling beams while browsing on Pinterest. She incorporated faux beams in her primary bathroom to complement a refinished claw-foot tub and an antique dresser-turned-vanity. She was impressed with the ease of installation—she says she and her young sons could have done the work themselves.
See how they completed the project: Installing Faux Wood Beams in Our Primary Bathroom
Fake-Out Family Room
The price of aged wood beams deterred Heather of The Heathered Nest—until she discovered how to fake the look. She and her husband used them to add rustic flare and architectural detail to their family room’s high cathedral ceiling. They found the beams at The Home Depot.
Read more about Heather’s project here.
Farmhouse-Style Bedroom
In a yearlong overhaul of her primary bedroom, Larissa of Prodigal Pieces made over an old stippled ceiling. Instead of a faux, engineered-wood style, she bought simple pine beams and distressed them to get the rustic look she wanted.
See more photos and how they completed the ceiling: Farmhouse Primary Bedroom Grand Finale
Wood-Framed Doorway
To create the look of a chunky, solid-wood beam-and-column duo in room-dividing doorways, Lindsay of The White Buffalo Styling Co. used framing lumber to build out and hide the smaller support beams. Their contractor was able to nail the framing lumber directly onto the existing beam. For the columns, they used three boards nailed into the drywall. They added a dark wood stain to complete the look.
See how she did it: Creating Faux Wood Beams
Rustic Kitchen Ceiling on a Budget
When Jenna of Jenna Sue Design Co. searched for a home, wood beams were on her wish list. When the house she ended up with didn’t have any, she decided to investigate options to add them. She was surprised to find that even faux wood wasn’t in her budget. Instead, she built the decorative beams she wanted out of inexpensive whitewood.
See the DIY tutorial: Kitchen Chronicles: DIY Wood Beams
Tips for Installing Faux Wood Beams
Depending on your skill level and the project’s complexity, you may be able to install faux wood beams yourself. However, we recommend hiring a professional for intricate designs or heavier beams.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Planning is key. Before you start, carefully plan the layout and placement of your beams. Mark the positions on your ceiling or walls to ensure a symmetrical and balanced look.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Each type of faux wood beam may have specific installation requirements, so be sure to read the instructions carefully.
- Use the right tools. Gather all the necessary tools, including a stud finder, level, saw, drill, and screwdriver, before you begin.
- Put safety first. Wear safety goggles and gloves when cutting or drilling. Use a sturdy ladder when working overhead.
- Fasten the beams securely. Make sure the beams are firmly attached to the ceiling or wall to prevent them from shifting or falling. Use appropriate mounting hardware and adhesive, as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Mind the gaps. If there are any gaps between the beams and the ceiling or wall, fill them with caulk or wood filler for a seamless look.
- Finish strong. Once the beams are installed, apply a finish to protect them and enhance their appearance. This could be a stain, paint, or clear sealant.
Patience and attention to detail will go a long way in ensuring a successful installation and a beautiful finished product. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, consult a professional for guidance.
Faux Wood Beams: Our Conclusion
Faux wood beams can add warmth, character, and architectural interest to any space. They’re versatile, affordable, and easy to install, making them an attractive option for homeowners looking to elevate their interiors.
Whether you’re looking to create the illusion of higher ceilings, define spaces in an open floor plan, or simply add a touch of rustic charm, faux wood beams offer endless possibilities. By understanding the basics of scale, placement, style, and installation, you can confidently incorporate faux wood beams into your home and create a look that’s both stylish and enduring.