Solid timber beams can add warmth and character to a room, but installing them is not always practical. The structure may already be complete, the dimensions may be difficult to match, or the weight and cost of real timber may make another solution more suitable.
For this Ferny Creek home, the client wanted three existing plaster bulkheads to look like light oak beams. Instead of rebuilding them in timber, we transformed the surfaces using Cover Styl NF36 Biscuit Oak architectural vinyl.
The completed beams introduced the warmth and texture the client wanted while retaining the existing structure underneath.
The project
The home had three large overhead bulkheads on the ground floor. They were constructed from plaster and formed part of the existing interior, but their painted finish did not provide the natural timber appearance the client wanted for the room.
The objective was clear: create the appearance of light oak beams without removing or rebuilding the existing bulkheads.
Architectural vinyl was well suited to the project because it could be applied directly to the prepared surfaces. It also allowed the client to choose a consistent timber pattern and colour that complemented the planned carpet, furniture and window furnishings.
Before
After
Choosing the timber finish
After reviewing the available finishes, Cover Styl NF36 Biscuit Oak was selected for the three beams.
This architectural vinyl has a light, structured timber appearance designed to reproduce the colour and grain of natural oak. Unlike a flat printed image, the pattern and surface texture provide enough variation to create a more convincing finish across a large area.
Product selection is particularly important for prominent overhead features. A pattern that looks suitable on a small sample can appear very different when applied across several long faces. The colour, grain direction and relationship with the surrounding finishes all need to be considered before installation.
For this home, the lighter oak appearance helped add warmth without making the room feel darker or visually heavy.
This project used Cover Styl, but we also install 3M DI-NOC architectural vinyl finishes for timber, stone, metal and other architectural surface applications.
Surface preparation came first
Architectural vinyl follows the surface underneath it. It does not conceal significant bumps, divots or uneven edges in the same way that a new sheet of timber or joinery might.
The condition of the bulkheads was therefore assessed before installation. The surfaces needed to be clean, stable and coated with a compatible paint system that would allow the vinyl adhesive to bond correctly.
Some paints contain silicone, Teflon or easy clean additives that can reduce adhesion. Freshly painted surfaces also require adequate curing time before architectural vinyl is installed.
For this project, the preparation requirements were discussed in advance so the bulkheads could receive a suitable top coat and be allowed to cure before the installation date.
There were also some existing irregularities in the plaster. These could not be completely hidden by the vinyl, so expectations were set before work began. Where required, a small silicone bead could be used around the edges to create a neater transition between the wrapped beams and adjoining surfaces.
This preparation is one of the most important parts of an architectural vinyl installation. The final result depends not only on the selected finish, but also on the condition and suitability of the substrate beneath it.
Installing the architectural vinyl
Each bulkhead had several visible faces, corners and adjoining edges. The timber grain needed to run in a consistent direction so the completed sections would read as beams rather than individually wrapped panels.
The installer measured and planned each section before applying the vinyl. Care was taken around corners and joins to maintain a clean finish while working with the existing shape of the plaster.
Overhead wrapping also requires careful positioning. Long sections of vinyl need to be applied evenly while controlling tension and preventing the material from folding back onto itself.
Once installed, the three previously painted bulkheads had the colour, grain and texture of light oak while retaining their original form.
The finished result
The architectural vinyl changed the character of the room without altering its underlying structure.
From normal viewing distance, the grain, colour and wrapped edges give the bulkheads the appearance of purpose built oak beams. The lighter finish also works well with the surrounding neutral palette and allows the beams to become a feature without dominating the space.
The client told us she was very happy with the installer and the completed work. Even before the room received its final carpet, furniture and window furnishings, the visual change was clear.
Why use architectural vinyl instead of solid timber?
Architectural vinyl will not replace real timber in every situation. It is, however, a useful option when an existing surface is structurally suitable and the main objective is to change its appearance.
It can be considered for:
- Plaster bulkheads and beams
- Reception counters
- Cabinetry and joinery
- Doors and wall panels
- Columns and lift surrounds
- Retail and hospitality interiors
- Office fitouts
A wide range of timber, stone, metal, concrete and solid colour finishes is available. This makes it possible to update existing surfaces without automatically replacing the entire structure.
The suitability of each application depends on the substrate, surface condition, edges, exposure and intended use. An inspection and sample review can help determine whether architectural vinyl is appropriate.
Planning an architectural vinyl project
A successful result begins before installation. The existing surface should be assessed, the finish should be viewed in the space and any preparation requirements should be confirmed early.
For this Ferny Creek project, careful product selection and surface preparation allowed three ordinary plaster bulkheads to become a distinctive design feature.
If you have an existing interior surface that you would like to transform, UV Window Coatings can assess the substrate and recommend suitable architectural vinyl finishes for your project.
Request a free assessment or contact our team to discuss your project.
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