Ideas for Columns

Columns are architectural elements that can be used structurally or decoratively. Several different types of columns are suitable for complementing the decor of your home, and they come in a wide spectrum of materials, styles and colors. The Classical order of columns was Doric, Tuscan, Ionic and Corinthian; these ranged from simple and elegant to detailed and elaborate. The most popular materials for these columns are now fiberglass, fiberglass reinforced polymer or stained wood instead of marble. Does this Spark an idea?

Pedestals

One of the most popular ways to use columns in your home is as a pedestal for a sculpture, plant or collectible. Columns are available in a wide variety of heights and circumferences, along with many materials and colors. You could use a short column with a small circumference to hold a special plant or art piece on an entry table. You could even use a small column for a centerpiece on a large dining table. Taller pedestals are useful for larger pieces and can liven up any corner of your home. For example, display a classic bust on a sturdy column pedestal in your foyer.

Structural Columns

If you are doing renovations, you can request columns to be placed at strategic points in your home to complement your design ideals. For example, have your entrance door framed by columns fixed into the wall. This will give your doorway a stately appearance from both the interior and exterior. Alternatively, have your stairway supported by columns, or even have a full height column placed in your home solely for decoration. The full height will make it appear as though it is structural.

Furniture with Columns

A creative way to use columns is to create new furniture pieces with them. For example, you can purchase four pillars of the same style, height and circumference and then cover them with a table top. Columns are flat at the top and bottom, making them ideal for this type of application, and to use them in furniture design would produce a substantial yet classic dining table or kitchen island. Columns can also provide stable bases for glass tops for accent, pedestal or entry tables.

Choosing a Column

The choice of column is dependent on your decor and personal tastes. If your home is modern, you could choose a Doric column that is plain or fluted with little decoration at the capital. You might prefer a rectangular or square pillar to continue the clean lines in your home. If you tend toward antiques and collectibles, your home could benefit from a Corinthian column that is fluted and extremely detailed with an elegant capital modeled after acanthus leaves. A column has many uses and can add elegance to any space, as long as it fits with the style of your home.