HVAC Exposed! 20 Ideas for Daring Ductwork
Raise the roof with revealed ducts that let it all hang out — and open a world of new design possibilities
Once something shunned and banished to crawl spaces and attics, exposed ductwork is on the rise as a design element — and as an energy-efficient solution. Naturally, those considering vaulted ceilings or increasing headroom in their home will need to consider what’s hidden above. Good thing savvy designers know how to make a simple, utilitarian feature pack a major design punch. Playing with size, shape, color and angles allows exposed systems to work in almost any space.
Designer Cavin Costello of The Ranch Mine in Phoenix uses the approach when remodeling older homes without attic space. In sweltering cities where temperatures often blow past 110 degrees, installing ductwork on roofs and piping cool air through the oven-like atmosphere doesn’t make sense in terms of energy efficiency. “You put the ducts in the envelope of the house, and it helps it keep cool,” Costello says. “It’s more efficient. You don’t even have to add insulation on top of them. It cuts down on cost that way, too.”
Here’s to maximum exposure.
Designer Cavin Costello of The Ranch Mine in Phoenix uses the approach when remodeling older homes without attic space. In sweltering cities where temperatures often blow past 110 degrees, installing ductwork on roofs and piping cool air through the oven-like atmosphere doesn’t make sense in terms of energy efficiency. “You put the ducts in the envelope of the house, and it helps it keep cool,” Costello says. “It’s more efficient. You don’t even have to add insulation on top of them. It cuts down on cost that way, too.”
Here’s to maximum exposure.
Despite the challenge of 8-foot-high ceilings, Costello had to go with exposed ducts in this Phoenix-area home, because the midcentury house didn't have attic space. The only other feasible option was to run the system on the roof — not efficient in a scorching-hot city, nor aesthetically pleasing.
To lower costs in another project, Costello went with an off-the-shelf-type duct. To make it unique, though — and not take away from the wooden support beam — he split the system into two smaller ducts rather than having one large one.
Smart ductwork can solve spatial challenges, too. A towering ceiling gets mediated by exposed beams and symmetrical ductwork here.
Sleek and minimalist, this stunning duct is a powerful decor statement all its own.
Likewise, this straightforward design is an eye-pleasing element in a contemporary dining area.
The exposure method works even in spaces with low ceilings. In this basement lounge area, a jet-black duct system adds depth to an otherwise closed-in space.
Painting the exposed system here pares it down, making way for textural impact in line with the eclectic decor.
On the other hand, the large, rectangular duct here takes the bold and edgy decor one step further.
Getting creative with angles lets this system in a Toronto loft dazzle. The tube cascades from a bedroom into the kitchen and living areas, paralleling the staircase path.
Slick exposed metal causes a fashionable stir in this masculine scheme.
But don't feel confined to run-of-the-mill metal. Consider painting ductwork to complement other elements.
The ceiling is a great place for incorporating contrast, too. While this kitchen says urban country, the ceiling screams modern industrial.
A duct run along a wall rather than down the middle adds drama while letting the exposed rafters steal the show here.
Exposed ducts let homeowners virtually erase impeding ceilings. Here it opened up a head-turning harmony of geometric lines.
Tucked away in gorgeous wood rafters, this system offers a welcome bit of surprise.
A crisp corner-hugging design aides the sophisticated vibe of this TV room.