Remodeling AC Duct Issue

[Keaton M.]

I am doing a remodel on a fourplex in Austin. I removed a furr down in the kitchen/living room housing an AC duct. I originally intended to just move the duct into the ceiling which is 16" floor trusses that would fit a 10" diameter pipe. I was informed by AC contractors that what I wanted would cut the air flow down too much. So my options now are to install a ductless minisplit system for the downstairs, get the trusses re-engineered to make a bigger opening, or install exposed ductwork. 

The latter 2 options are preferable. So my questions are: 

1) Does anyone have experience with exposed ducts and tenants' responses to them?

2) Does anyone know of a contractor in Austin that does residential exposed ducts? I've called multiple places and have not been able to find one. 

Many thanks!