Get Beaming: How to Turn Beams and Pillars Into Design Features

Today we'll discover how to conceal beams in a smart way.

Often extensions can only be done when certain horizontal or vertical beams are left in place, which creates a problem. These beams are frequently low-lying or simply in the way — and they look, ahem, ugly. To say the least.

Have a look at how smart design actually incorporates these otherwise unsightly beams into a room, often turning them into an interesting design element.

Camouflage with shelving

Can you see where the joists are here? By adding horizontal gever shelving, the beams have been camouflaged into an entrance feature.

Camouflage with carpentry

A similar idea, this time with carpentry. The pillar was dressed in wood, and then a second demi-pillar added to make it less conspicuous and turn it into a design component.

And here, the pillar has been expanded to accommodate a glass display unit for glassware.

Or do the opposite: accentuate it

Beneath, a different technique. Rather than disguising the pillar, it's accentuated by painting it in a contrasting colour. The pillar is made to work in its setting through the ceiling decor and the modern shelving, incorporating this otherwise lonely pillar.

Make it structural in a different way

Here I don't have to point out where the pillar is — it's being used as the table's other leg. Who said a table leg can't go up to the ceiling? Whether it's for you or not, you must admit it's cool.

And here, they took the beam in its literal and raw state and glassed it in to work with the modern kitchen. There you have it — your zecher lechurban amidst the dinette.