Michelangelo wasn’t the first of his kind to gaze skyward and consider the infinite possibilities contained within the ceiling, and he certainly hasn’t been the last.

From painstakingly designed palaces to the most stunning buildings of our time, a beautifully designed ceiling is the hallmark of an interior’s appeal and longevity.

Wooden ceilings have long been regarded as the elite choice for ceiling design, due to their infinite variety and adaptability. For centuries the wooden ceiling has been a mainstay of homes and public buildings around the world, and today’s styles are no exception.

From weathered barn wood to repurposed ship’s beams, stripped surfaces to finely polished finishes, your wood ceiling is your chance to reclaim the space above your head. Rustic or refined, the modern wood ceiling lends an easy and inviting air to any home, reminiscent of shabby chic beach cottages and country retreats, ensuring the kind of fuss-free luxury a gentleman craves.

Coffered and patterned or horizontally planked, the wood ceiling adapts to any home and interior scheme, opening up even the most restricted perimeters and adding impressive height and equally eye-catching nuance. Gazing up at these top 60 best wooden ceiling ideas each morning or after a long day’s work will take on a whole new joy, to say nothing of the compliments you’re sure to invoke from guests and loved ones alike.