How exposed beams are making a comeback in Canberra

Exposed timber beams are one of those architectural features that define an era and conjure images of sunken lounges, bell bottoms and prawn cocktails.

Beams framed against a white ceiling can take you right back to the 1960s or ’70s and, perhaps, a Pettit & Sevitt home for the ultimate in Swinging Sixties style.

Chris Uren of Independent Inner North & City says the exposed and recycled Red Gum beams in the near-new townhouse offer a nod to history but have been reinterpreted for modern living.

“Exposed timber beams like these bring an organic element into a home and introduce a lot of warmth,” he says, adding that the floating beams in the Turner home help define a two-storey void and give the illusion of a lower ceiling.

“We’ve certainly had a very strong and positive reaction from potential buyers to all the custom elements within this distinctive home.”

Amy Wilson of Belle Property Canberra says buyers generally respond favourably to mid-century architecture, and exposed beams are considered part of that appeal.

“But it’s certainly fair to say they have been through cycles of fashion with buyers over the generations,” Wilson says.

“There was a time when beams were painted or lime-washed to make them effectively disappear. These days we see people restoring them to their original architectural intent.”

Wilson says the appeal of the beams lies in their strong lines and the character they can inject into a room. 

• Era: Exposed beams as a feature are most closely connected to 1960s and ’70s architecture. They were often paired with other styles like sunken lounge rooms, wood panelling, exposed brickwork and indoor gardens.
• Function: Trusses, joists and beams aren’t just about fashion, but serve a structural role. Essentially, they help brace a home or roof, particularly where long spans become an issue. 
• Form: Raked ceilings with exposed beams serve a bigger purpose than just as an element of visual interest. They raise ceiling height, enhance the sense of space and draw in more light.

Check out our top homes with exposed beams:

Turner

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This contemporary townhouse, completed in 2020, provides an inner-city lifestyle with a hint of retro style that echoes the Swinging Sixties.

That vibe is provided by the exposed red gum timber beams that span a central void and are far more stylish than those which might have characterised nanna’s home.

But that’s where the connection with yesteryear ends – this luxury townhouse is well and truly centred in the present and delivers 154 square metres of deluxe living. 

It has four bedrooms, a bathroom and two en suites. Downsizers will like that one of the bedrooms is located on the ground floor.

The light and bright interior is highlighted by vaulted ceilings, custom double-glazed, argon-filled windows and oversized lift-and-slide doors to both courtyards.

High-end fixtures and fittings include grey ironbark timber stairs and bespoke balustrades, hydronic heating and custom joinery. There is a stucco feature wall that extends from floor to ceiling in the living and dining area and in two of the bedrooms.

The kitchen is highlighted by inlaid grey ironbark wooden feature strips. Siemens appliances include two ovens and a plate warmer. There’s also a top-of-the-range Liebherr side-by-side fridge-freezer and wine fridge.

The front and back courtyard has been landscaped with Corten edging complemented by travertine pavers. There’s also a basement double garage.

And, of course, a location like Tuner is close to absolutely everything.

Auction: Noon, July 30

Agent: Independent Inner North & City, Chris Uren 0407 466 199 

Or try these:

Merimbula

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Price guide: $1.28 million

Private sale

Agent: One Agency Dwyer Properties, Tammy Carroll 0447 918 064

Rivett

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Price guide: $1.1 million

Auction: 10am, July 30

Agent: Luton Properties Weston Creek and Molonglo Valley, Josh Wilson 0439 479 170

Higgins

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Price guide: $850,000

Private sale

Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Amy Wilson 0405 130 332