Exposed vents are the perfect example of how to turn a remodeling obstacle into appealing decor. We like the way a basic vent can add an industrial note in the kitchen.
Above: A kitchen in Tuscany designed by Giorgio Brogi and seen on Office for Word and Image (OWI).
Above: An exposed vent snakes across the ceiling in a Brooklyn kitchen by Levenson McDavid Architects. The kitchen's countertops are also featured in 10 Easy Pieces: Remodelista Kitchen Countertop Picks.
Above: A loft in Shoreditch, London, spotted on Interièur Magazin.
Above: A small urban kitchen with a prominently placed crooked vent by architects Murdock Young.
Above: A loft in Philadelphia by Qb3 has an exposed vent running along the ceiling between the kitchen and dining room.
Above: A kitchen in Seattle with a dramatic vertical vent; photograph by John Granen.
For more ideas, see 8 Rustic Wood-Clad Vent Hoods. For architecture with an industrial style, have a look at this Copper-Clad Modernist Gem in the Woods.
N.B.: This post is an update; the original story ran on June 6, 2009 as part of our Organic Appeal issue.