definitely do 9 ft. You will be very unhappy with 8 and resale value will definitely suffer. I have been a builder and developer for over 20 years. TMR

Given the demographic of taller average heights the future says 9'+ with 7'6" doors or 10' with 8' doors. With colonial styles the differences is in the size and level of trim higher ceilings allow. (Necessary to keep them authentic looking as well) The cement coated foams in wet areas such as baths and kitchen allow you to do1 piece that would require 5 or 6 stacked trim pieces to do in wood. In other areas the foam trim is appropriate for high wall and ceiling applications. Both types are made cost effective by lower labor costs. Base and casing that will see hands and feet are still best in High density MDF.
Trim pieces have style numbers and once you decide on what you want, you can shop on line for deals. Builders of necessity need consistent and prompt delivery which mean more often higher prices. Owners can use their lower cost time to go out and get the deals. Just get reasonable allowances from your builder as well as a time line of need.

omg...go for 9 foot!! we build homes and it is everyones first comment..."are these 9' ceilings....beautiful!" it costs us...the builder... approx an additional 2k to do on a home approx 2000 sq ft big. it adds cost in insulation , siding, drywall and studs....really an inexpensive feature. It feels great and now everytime i go into 8 foot homes , i feel like i am in a dollhouse. you will not regret it. cozy doesn't mean crammed...you can get cozy from a fireplace and your furnishings.

There is truly NO advantage to staying with 8' ceilings!! Go for the gusto! and while you're at it, make sure the basement has a minimum 8' ceiling height', if not 9'.
You will not regret it!!

Hello,

Certainly all of the above comments are correct; I think 9' ceilings nowadays are the norm, ( and are expected in new construction) similar to granite counters in kitchens, and hardwood flooring. It is a little more expensive, but definitely worth it. ( basement ceiling height, as well- good point, wowgreatplace) The cozy factor will not be compromised! You make your house into your home by adding your personal touches.
Good luck!

Without question, do the 9 foot ceiling. Comparison photos will not necessarily show the benefit, but walk into any space with these two different heights, and you will feel overwhelmingly better in the 9 foot high rooms.

Definitely 9

The best thing is going to open houses and see for yourself what 8 foot and 9 foot ceiling feels like, which is quite dramatic.

I think we all agree with 9 foot ceiling, the added cost will be worth it, and you will appreciate the more open feeling while living there.

I say go 9'. You can always add elements to achieve the cozyness your going for. Go 9!

I agree with 9' ceilings - I like 10' even, but that will have a larger impact on cost than the 9'. In a colonial (we build a lot of them in New England) 9' is lovely. Dytecture has a great idea for you to go see open houses. Agreed with comments on basement ceiling as well as doorways. But - this will cost you more if you get taller doors - they will not be standard height. I might compromise on that and just have the higher celings.

We will start building soon and have decided on 9 feet, including the basement. Thank you all for your help!