Ceilings fall with economy

The suburban “great room” cathedral-style ceilings are going out of style as many home buyers don’t want to spend extra money to maintain the huge rooms. “Great rooms” are expensive to heat and cool, and some buyers see it as a waste of space. Home builders, including Pulte Homes and the Toll Brothers, say buyers are more interested in value now and want the most square footage for their money, so extra bedrooms, lofts and playrooms are replacing tall ceilings.