Types of Columns - Tuscan Columns

The Tuscan column order has a plain design, with a plain tapered shaft, and a simple base, capital, and frieze. The order is a simplified variation of the Doric order by the Romans. Tuscan column architecture is characterized by an unfluted shaft and a capital that only consist of an abacus and an echinus. In proportions the pillar is similar to the Doric order, but overall it is significantly plainer. The column height is normally seven times the diameter width. In comparison to the other orders, the Tuscan order looks the most solid.

This primitive and sturdy order was considered most appropriate in military architecture and in docks and warehouses when they were dignified by classical architectural treatment.

Because of the ease of contruction, the Tuscan mode became part of the vernacular Georgian style that has lingered in places like New England and Ohio deep into the 19th century. In gardening, "carpenter's Doric" which is Tuscan, provides gate posts and fences in many traditional garden contexts and is also very prevalent for interior decorative columns.