After something shunned and banished to crawl spaces and attics, exposed ductwork is on the increase for a design element — and as an energy-efficient alternative. Naturally, those contemplating vaulted ceilings or raising headroom within their home will need to consider what’s hidden above. Fantastic thing savvy designers understand how to generate a simple, utilitarian feature pack a major design punch. Playing size, shape, angles and color enables exposed systems to operate in almost any space.
Designer Cavin Costello of The Ranch Mine in Phoenix uses the approach when remodeling older houses without attic space. In sweltering cities in which temperatures frequently blow beyond 110 degrees, installing ductwork on roofs and piping cool air through the oven-like atmosphere doesn’t make sense in terms of energy efficiency. “You put the ducts in the envelope of the house, also it helps it keep cool,” Costello says. “It is more efficient. You don’t even have to add insulation at the top of them. It cuts down on cost like that, too.”
Here’s to maximum exposure.
The Ranch Mine
Regardless of the challenge of 8-foot-high ceilings, Costello needed to proceed with exposed ducts within this Phoenix-area home, because the midcentury house didn’t have attic space. The only other feasible option was to operate the machine on the roof — not effective in a scorching-hot city, nor aesthetically pleasing.
The Ranch Mine
To lower prices in another project, Costello went with an off-the-shelf-type duct. To make it unique, however — rather than remove from the wooden support beam — he split the system into two smaller vents rather than having one big one.
Peter A. Sellar – Architectural Photographer
Smart ductwork can solve cognitive difficulties, too. A towering ceiling becomes mediated by exposed beams and symmetrical ductwork here.
Elad Gonen
Sleek and minimalist, this magnificent duct is a powerful decor statement all its own.
Domiteaux + Baggett Architects, PLLC
Likewise, this simple design is an eye-pleasing element in a contemporary dining area.
moss
Even the simplest models can work miracles. Here, room-spanning ductwork enlightens a modern design wrapped in rustic timber.
Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC
The exposure system works in areas with low ceilings. In this basement lounge area, a jet-black duct system adds depth to an otherwise closed-in area.
Thom Filicia Inc..
Painting the vulnerable system here pares it down, making way for textural impact in line with the diverse decor.
Momoko Morton
On the flip side, the big, rectangular duct here takes the bold and edgy decor one step farther.
Rad Design Inc
Getting creative with angles allows this system at a Toronto loft dazzle. The tube cascades from a bedroom to the living and kitchen spaces, paralleling the stairs path.
Nicholas Moriarty Interiors
Slick exposed metal causes a fashionable stir within this masculine scheme.
In wood-happy spaces, big shimmering metal accents help divide the material palette.
Elad Gonen
But don’t feel confined to metal. Consider painting ductwork to complement different components.
Angela Todd Designs, Portland, OR
The ceiling is a superb place for incorporating comparison, too. Although this kitchen says urban nation, the ceiling screams modern industrial.
Gus Duffy AIA
A duct run across a wall rather than down the centre adds play while allowing the exposed rafters steal the show .
Charleston Home + Design Mag
Exposed ducts allow ceilings being erase impeded by homeowners. Here it started up a head-turning stability of lines.
Jane Kim Design
Tucked away in gorgeous wood rafters, this system offers a welcome piece of surprise.
Exposed ducts don’t have to be confined to only open living spaces. This small and subtle one is a slam dunk in this bedroom.
Spacecrafting / Architectural Photography
Subtle changes in size and form may draw the eyes together numerous blank lines.
Sandvold Blanda Architecture + Interiors LLC
A crisp corner-hugging layout instills the sophisticated vibe of this TV room.
