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Sometimes with an open layout it can be difficult to define where one space ends and another begins. One way to add distinction can be to add a faux beam. This is a beginner level project in my opinion and it turned out even better than I expected.

Supplies

Lengths and quantities will vary depending on the project size.

2- 1×6’s
2- 1×4’s
1 3/4″ wood screws
drill
18 gauge brad nailer
2″ brad nails
Stain of your choice (here is what I used)

One more before shot from the other side of the room

Here is the general idea of what we did.

Instructions

The first thing we did was locate the studs in our ceiling and mark them off with a pencil. We then used 1-3/4 wood screws to secure the 1X6 board to the ceiling. We used Nordic Pine from Lowe’s for this project. Next, we built the bottom portion of the beam by connecting the bottom 1X6 board to the two side boards which are 1X4’s into a U like shape. To connect them to the ceiling board, we used a brad nailer with 18 gauge nails. This really made the beam feel secure. Finally, we connected the bottom piece that we just created to the top board that was connected to the ceiling. Once again we connected these separate pieces with 18 gauge nails from our brad nailer. Due to the width of our living room vs the board length we had to repeat this process with 2 small changes. The first change was on the first stage we used the entire board verses the second stage we had to measure the remaining space between the already hung board and the wall. Once this length was measured it was a simple cut with the miter saw and we got back to hanging the top piece, building the bottom portion, and connecting the two. The two different sections met up well and the beam was complete! The final step in this was selecting and applying the stain. For this project we used General Finishes Gel Stain in Java however if your tackling this project make sure you select the right stain for you room and style. I’m still surprised how something so simple can really change the feeling of a room.