Kristina Ferrigan, Author at Normandy Remodeling

If you want to give your home a more distinct architectural character, the answer might be right above you. Treating the ceiling as a unique fifth wall can transform an ordinary room into a statement space. Flat drywall often dominates modern construction, but introducing architectural shapes overhead can completely redefine a room’s light, volume, and feel. One classic form – the barrel ceiling – is an effective way to add bold, beautiful curves to an interior renovation.

“The barrel vault is an architectural element that goes back hundreds of years,” says Normandy Designer Bill Peterson. “Contemporary homes that have them just feel special.”

Originating in ancient Roman architecture, the barrel ceiling is an elongated arch forming a continuous half-cylinder. In modern construction, this sweeping vault is used to soften and enhance passageways between spaces, acting as a powerful antidote to boxy rooms and rigid, straight lines. It delivers instant drama and visible craftsmanship without requiring extra decor or surface clutter – the architecture itself does all the work.

Versatility is one of the things that makes the barrel ceiling a standout choice. In narrow spaces – like entryways, gallery hallways, or butler’s pantries – it creates an intimate, tunnel-like passage that guides the eye forward and makes transitions feel intentional. “Changes in light and texture slow your progression as you pass through,” Bill says. “There is a sense of anticipation as you move from one space to another.”

In larger rooms, such as primary suites or open-concept living areas, the effect shifts entirely. The vault adds vertical scale, catching natural light and casting subtle, changing shadows across the curve throughout the day. This simple shape softens large spaces, making them feel expansive yet remarkably grounded. “It all adds to the feeling that these are special areas of the home,” Bill says.

Creative use of curves and curved passageways is part of a broader architectural trend that blends traditional and modern design. “The arch is having a bit of a moment in the design community,” Bill says. “It’s current yet classic, and the barrel takes it a step further.” Pairing barrel ceilings with arched doorways or recessed alcoves establishes a kind of design language, repeating rounded forms to create a visual flow from room to room.

Bill notes there are challenges associated with barrel ceilings. “It takes a bit of skill and commitment to the aesthetic for it to be successful,” he says. “Having an appropriate way of lighting the space is the most difficult element. It takes coordination with the framer and electrician – as well as sourcing the correct fixture – to illuminate all of the surfaces.”

Upgrading a ceiling from a flat surface to a sculpted barrel vault turns forgotten overhead space into an enduring architectural feature. It is a clean, timeless way to bring depth, structure, and lasting luxury into everyday living.

Whether you prefer classic design, contemporary design, or something in between, your home should fit your lifestyle effortlessly. Set up a time to talk with Bill about your ideas, check out our photo gallery of recent Normandy remodeling projects, or find inspiration on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

For a historic home remodel, the challenge is finding the right balance between honoring its history and creating a space that feels fresh and new. For this Wilmette kitchen, Normandy Design Manager Ashley Noethe focused on maximizing storage, counterspace and connection, while preserving the home’s original character and introducing details that bring some personality.

The first eye-catching element in this 100-year-old home’s kitchen remodel is the rich, green backsplash. “Its classic picket shape keeps the design from feeling overly trendy, while the subdued green adds personality without overwhelming the kitchen and can pair with different color palettes down the road,” Ashley says. “The tile’s undulating surface catches the light, creating visual interest without making the backsplash feel busy.”

The green also connects with the backyard views through the kitchen’s numerous windows, bringing a touch of the outdoors into the kitchen.

To complement the house’s age, Ashley chose a furniture-inspired island with decorative feet and a rich walnut finish. The surrounding cabinetry features a nuanced neutral that shifts in appearance depending on the lighting. “It’s a neutral, not a white, gray or beige — it’s a blend,” she says. “The warmer tone creates depth and richness, offering a more natural fit for the older home. Doing a bright white would have felt too stark and not true to the vintage feeling of the house.”

One of the main goals was to create a better connection between the kitchen and family room, according to Ashley. “We added a peninsula which created not only an eating area, but more counter space to work at while keeping an eye on the kids in the adjoining family room,” she says.

Storage was another important priority. In addition to the cabinetry in the new peninsula and new cabinetry along the adjacent wall, a shallow closet near the peninsula was transformed into a more substantial pantry cabinet, nearly doubling the available space.

Additional details reinforce the balance between traditional character and modern convenience. Brass hardware, walnut accents, and floating shelves with brass rails add warmth and texture. “We preserved an existing recessed cabinet near the sink which was a charming original feature that keeps it feeling like a vintage home,” Ashley says, “While a new induction cooktop helps the kitchen meet contemporary needs.”

A dedicated kids’ station in the butler’s pantry provides a place for snacks and everyday essentials. Wallpaper adds personality to this compact area, allowing the main kitchen to maintain a cleaner, more uninterrupted appearance. “This historic kitchen renovation was about updating the space while retaining a vintage quality that helps create a welcoming family hub,” Ashley says.

If you have some ideas in mind for updating your home and would like to discuss it with one of our Normandy Designers, please reach out. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest, or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for design tips and inspiration.