Decorative Columns

Throughout the history of architecture, columns have been used for two main purposes, structural and decorative. While many of the structural columns do have a tendency to be embossed or adorned with decoration, there are many architectural pillars that are solely used for décor.

Since the construction of the first Greek column, the Doric order, columns have progressively become more ornate with decoration being added to the base and capital. One of the most popular decorative columns has always been the Roman Corinthian Column. The thin shaft is accented with a brilliantly carved Acanthus Leaf capital resting on the astragal, the thin bead of molding often referred to as the neck detail.

The base accompanying the Corinthian Column consists of two sections of molding, rather than the standard single strip as on the Roman Doric Column. Although the Roman Corinthian Column is probably considered one of the most elaborate columns in architecture, any pillar may be used for decoration purposes.

In today’s high-end real estate market, columns are the definition of grandeur. You cannot pass through a new construction site without seeing a decorative column. Many businesses and homeowners are realizing the beauty a simple column can add to an exterior or even accent any room. There is no piece of architectural detail that will add more value to a home than a decorative column. Simple to install and inexpensive compared to the value added to your property, an architectural pillar will draw attention by any passerby and will be the conversation piece of the room.

When choosing which decorative column will work best for your project, you have several materials available to you. The simplest material for a pillar is fiberglass. Strong and durable, a fiberglass column will last through any of the natural elements. Compared with structural support of fiberglass, is a composite material, FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer). With the strength of fiberglass, this material makes each column feel as if it were stone. Probably the most popular and most elegant of decorative columns is the stain-grade pillar. Available in any desired wood species, a stain-grade column will the center attraction of any property.

With so many choices available, there is sure to be a decorative column that suits your project needs.