Beams rock!

I adore exposed ceiling beams, structural or decorative doesn't make a difference to me. They add so much character and dimension to an often ignored surface. We added large decorative beams to the vaulted family room in our past house and they made a HUGE difference for very little cost. Now the question is always to paint or to stain....totally depends on the house and you :)

Here is a sampling of the beamed ceilings I have in my "house ideas" file on my computer. I had to whittle them down a bit for you because I clearly have an obsession with them!