Standard Ceiling Height
Table of Contents
High ceilings add a spectacular aspect to any home. Most of our clients’ at ABM Homes request a higher ceiling, for new builds as well as rebuilds.
As this is a topic close to most homeowner’s hearts, we’ve tried to cover the most important aspects in this definitive guide.
Types of High Ceilings


1. Plain Ceiling:
This is the most common type, used traditionally. They look and feel classic and elegant, although they’re not the flashiest option.
2. Raked Ceiling:
They’re like a skillion roof, with two beautifully angled sections. While not the most common choice, they add a layer of character, which is especially perfect for homes with open floor plans.
3. Double-storey void:
These are a bit more situational, covering the height of two floors. They can make a real statement in an entryway, living area, or even an event hall.
How high should a Ceiling be?


Australian federal laws have strict Standard Ceiling Height Guidelines to ensure optimal living standards.
These guidelines have divided rooms into two categories, as well as some exemptions:
1. Habitable rooms:
As per the National Construction Code, essential living spaces such as bedrooms, living rooms, dining areas, and family rooms are considered habitable rooms. They have a minimum height requirement of 2.4 meters.
2. Non-habitable rooms:
This classification covers areas where we spend less of our time, like bathrooms, toilets, laundry areas, and hallways. They are supposed to have a minimum height of 2.1 meters.
3. Attics and stairways:
They get a bit of leeway when it comes to height, as long as at least two-thirds of the floor space is above 2.2 meters. Stairways can be a touch lower, but they’ve got to clear the 2-meter mark. These conditions are based on safety concerns, particularly for taller individuals, as they help prevent potential head or hand injuries.
Reasons to get High Ceilings:


Let’s check out other reasons everyone loves high ceilings:
1. Aesthetics :
Imagine stepping into a room and feeling it open up, bathed in natural light. High ceilings have a way of making windows look even bigger and brighter. And if you’re lucky enough to live in a green area like Whitlam, consider adding those special highlight windows for a touch of nature indoors.
2. Open Space:
High ceilings will make sure your home doesn’t feel claustrophobic, especially for tall people. With extra natural light, it’s a game-changer for smaller homes, making them look and feel so much more spacious.
3. Heat management :
Higher ceilings facilitate better cooling, as they allow heat to naturally rise. This is especially advantageous in Australia’s warmer climate.
4. Tactile ambiance:
Different rooms deserve their unique vibe, right? That’s where adjusting the ceiling height comes in. Whether you’re going for a cozy, intimate feel or aiming for a breezy, airy atmosphere, it’s all about tailoring the space to suit your needs.
5. Resale value:
As they are very popular, high ceilings ensure you get the maximum return on investment. When considering a property purchase, make sure the ceiling height meets the standards. Otherwise, you’ll have to spend costly adjustments or even a complete rebuild, with vaulted ceilings—an aspect best discussed with a qualified and experienced homebuilder.
Issues with high ceilings


Now, let’s talk about the common challenges that come with those lofty ceilings:
1. Maintenance:
It’s no secret that higher ceilings can be a bit more of a challenge to keep squeaky clean. Getting those hard-to-reach spots might require a bit of extra effort.
2. Air circulation:
While tall ceilings do create more room for warm air to rise, it also means that air circulation takes a tad longer. So, it might take a bit more time and energy to get your space to the perfect temperature, which can add to your energy bill.
3. Noise:
With more room to travel, voices tend to echo a bit more. But fear not! You can easily tame this with some well-placed furnishings and fabrics. Rugs, carpets, and cushions can work wonders in soaking up and softening those sounds.
4. Cost:
If you’ve purchased a pre-built house, and you’re thinking about raising the ceiling, it’s worth noting that this might come with an added expense.
High Ceilings in Canberra and NSW




He is a Civil Engineer at ABM Homes. With a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering, he’s well-placed to dissect complex engineering jargon into simple ideas. Off-duty, he’s smashing ping-pong balls or hitting cricket sixes.