Sacramento Remodeling Ideas: How to Elevate Your Home With Exposed Beams

May 19

Exposed beams are a longstanding symbol of architectural charm, blending function with a striking visual. At the same time, they’re not for everyone! But if you’re reading this, you’re likely in one of two groups:

You have rustic beams in your home and are wondering how to incorporate them into your interior design.
You don’t have rustic beams in your home, but would love to have them.

Our team at HEX General Contractors has worked on countless home renovations over the past few decades, from coastal homes in the Bay Area to desert bungalows around Sacramento. We’ve styled and installed exposed beams in modern farmhouses, cozy Craftsman builds, and mid-century ramblers. So stick around to hear our thoughts on beams, including what to do with them, how to add them, and why they matter.

Exposed wooden beam in a kitchen ceiling with a dark finish, surrounded by white subway tiles, cabinets, and countertops in a home remodeled by HEX General Contractors in Sacramento, California.

How to Style Exposed Beams in Your Home

If your home already has exposed beams—whether they’re structural or decorative—you’re in a great position to build your interior design around them. Here’s how to embrace a unique feature of your home and let it shine:

1. Highlight the Beams With Lighting

Beams provide the perfect opportunity to install statement pendant lights or recessed uplighting. Hanging fixtures from beams can really emphasize your ceiling height and draw attention to the wood’s natural grain or finish. Try black matte track lighting for extra contrast and a modern edge.

2. Incorporate Complementary Finishes

Think about how the tone of your beams works with your floors, cabinetry, or other details. A warm, honeyed oak beam pairs well with brass finishes, while a darker-toned beam might complement concrete or steel elements. You can always refinish or paint your beams to match an existing palette that you don’t want to change.

3. Consider the Texture of Your Materials

Exposed beams can help you introduce textural depth. Consider balancing the rustic feel of wood with smooth tile, plaster walls, or polished concrete floors. This kind of textural contrast adds a refined, curated feel to any space. Or go the other direction and ride the rustic train into wooden tables and terra cotta tiles; either way, make it intentional.

4. Define Areas Without Using Walls

Beams can be used especially well in open-concept homes as subtle dividers. A single beam across a wide ceiling can help separate a kitchen from a living area without requiring walls. It’s a trick that adds structure and style without losing openness.

How to Add Exposed Beams to Your Home

If you’re longing for the character and style of exposed beams but your home only has smooth white ceilings, there’s good news. Adding beams to revolutionize your interior is just a project away!

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Deciding Between Structural or Faux Beams

Real structural beams can be installed if you need functional, load-bearing support. Reach out to our team at HEX to get a professional estimate or feasibility consultation, as this would be an important project to get right. If you’re just looking for the look, faux beams are a stylish alternative. These are hollow, lightweight beams that can be made from real wood or high-density polyurethane; they look just like the real thing—without the need for major construction.

2. Match the Style of Your Home

Sacramento homes vary widely—from Midtown Victorians and East Sac Craftsman homes to Elk Grove ranch-style layouts and new suburban builds. The key to a successful beam addition is harmony. In a Craftsman home, dark stained beams with classic lines provide an authentic look. In a modern home, white-washed or painted beams can create a more subtle, sleek presence.

3. Install Your Beam in the Right Spot

Take into account everything we’ve shared to consider some creative placements for your beams:

Vaulted ceilings in living rooms
Kitchen ceilings for added warmth
Bathrooms for cozy, spa-like vibes
Entryways or hallways for unique flair

HEX can help you determine which areas of your home are most suitable for beams—especially if you’re also updating your kitchen, bathroom, or another space.

4. Consider the Beam Size and Spacing

Too many beams in a small room can feel overwhelming. Too few will make your ceiling feel empty. A good rule of thumb would be to keep your beams 4-6 feet apart for standard sized rooms. We can help you plan the best spacing for your room during an interior design consultation.

Why Sacramento Homeowners Love Exposed Beams

In our experience, Sacramento homeowners have been enjoying a beam-renaissance by taking advantage of the special warmth and character they add. Beams can bridge the gap between the heritage of old, sturdy architecture and the new wave of refreshing modern aesthetics. You can read more here about the organic style trends that are making a comeback in 2025; exposed beams perfectly fit the bill.

In neighborhoods like Land Park and Curtis Park, exposed beams highlight longstanding tradition. In newer suburbs like Natomas or Elk Grove, adding beams to your home can inject personality that sets it apart. Wherever you are in the Bay Area and Sacramento Valley, our team at HEX General Contractors can help you bring your vision to life.