Built-up wood beams add structure, depth, and visual interest to ceilings and walls. Using layered profiles such as S4S stock, crown moulding, or custom elements, these beams create architectural definition in both modern and traditional interiors.
What Are Built-Up Wood Beams?
Built-up beams are assemblies constructed from multiple mouldings and S4S boards to create the appearance of solid timber or decorative structural elements. They can be used on ceilings or walls to define zones, draw the eye upward, or add architectural weight without requiring heavy solid wood construction.
Benefits of Using Built-Up Beams
Layered beam assemblies offer design flexibility, allowing you to tailor the size, projection, and profile combinations to match your interior style. They can be simple and streamlined or more detailed to complement traditional millwork. Their modular construction makes it easy to scale the design up or down for balanced, proportionate results.
Built-up beams are also practical. They can conceal mechanicals, uneven framing, seams, or transitions—providing a clean, finished look throughout a space.
Because they’re assembled from individual mouldings, built-up beams offer better control over scale and detail than a single large profile. This makes it easy to tailor the beam to the room, whether you want a subtle architectural accent or a dramatic feature.
Design Applications
- Add architectural rhythm by running beams across ceilings.
- Create coffered ceiling systems using beams as the primary framework.
- Use beams to separate open-concept spaces or define specific functional areas.
- Integrate beams with wall paneling or built-ins for cohesive millwork design.
Choosing Beam Components
Most built-up beams begin with S4S lumber as the structural box, then incorporate mouldings such as crown, cove, panel mould, or custom profiles for additional depth and detail. The assembly can be adjusted for height, projection, and complexity depending on the scale of the room.
Explore Beam Assemblies
Browse our examples of built-up beam designs for inspiration. Whether you need a simple modern beam or a more elaborate traditional assembly, our team can help you mix profiles and create a custom solution for your project. Request a quote to get started.
