Interior columns are a magnificent element of interior decor that has
existed for hundreds if not thousands of years. Dating back to the ancient
Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians, columns have adorned and held up temples,
cathedrals, and stately homes.
The journey of interior columns has been far-reaching, extending to
homes today where they are a statement of elegance and grandeur. Yet, and
understandably so, some homeowners grapple with the question of whether columns
are ideal for their homes. Beyond this, the next conundrum lies in getting the
right columns for the space.
Where will they be fixed? Will they match the rest of the decor? Are
they necessary?
In this article, we will delve into some of the considerations to make
in getting the right columns.
Why do you need the
columns?
Beyond being decorative, every interior decor element needs to be well
thought out. What purpose will it serve? Will it add value to the room? Will it
be a delightful addition or too much?
Interior columns can play a supportive or aesthetic role. Load-bearing
columns are a vital architectural component that holds up the weight of the
upper floors. As such, they cannot be done away with and will be built into the
foundation.
Decorative columns could add a camouflage quality to the home. This
will come in handy especially when you want to hide eye-sores such as damaged
or rotten load-bearing wood posts on the porch or exposed pipes.
A beautiful
column will also add a striking detail especially to a large space where you
would like to make a grand statement. It will offer a transition between
adjoining spaces such as the living room and dining room or kitchen on an open
floor plan.
What style works for
you?
Interior columns come in numerous styles and shapes that are founded on
five major orders of architecture. The orders that have endured the test of
time are;
●
Tuscan- This order traces its origin back to
Tuscany, Italy. It is the simplest in design and consists of a plain, unfluted
shaft with a plain base and capital.
●
Doric- This order is a step above the Tuscan
with lines running down the shaft in a fluted layout. The column is also
heavier and squatter than other column types.
●
Ionic- The Ionic order is more slender and
elaborate than Doric, having curly scrolls on the sides of the capital.
●
Corinthian- This order traces its origin back
to Corinth and the columns are more elaborate, bearing leaf-like carvings that
appear to be flowering.
●
Composite- this order is a combination of
Ionic and Corinthian orders to create striking columns.
These orders are today combined with a spark of modern creativity for
more contemporary designs.
What is the best shape
of the column?
Interior columns have traditionally come in a cylindrical shape that
was common with the historical era. Today, rectangular and square columns are
becoming popular to suit the general layout of a room.
Squared columns are more fashionable as they serve more functional
purposes such as a focal point to display works of art or photographs.
What type of material
should you choose?
Interior columns today are made from different materials ranging from
concrete, wood, PVC, and dense polyurethane. The best material will depend upon
factors such as the purpose of the column and the working budget (cost).
Load-bearing columns must be sturdy and will probably be made from
concrete or heavy-duty wood as they will be built into the home’s foundation.
Decorative columns can be made from less tough material.
DreamWall Decor’s interior columns are made from high-quality, dense
polyurethane that is durable and exquisitely designed. They are purely for
aesthetics and should not be installed where they will bear any heavy weight.
What space are you
working with?
The amount of space and how it is decorated are crucial in the choice
of columns. Wider spaces such as a porch or vast hallway can support thicker
columns while smaller spaces need slimmer columns.
However, if the columns are too thin in an attempt to fit them into a
smaller room, they may end up making the room seem oddly proportioned.
The ornamentation of the rest of the room will also influence the style
of the column. Large, round columns are often sufficient by themselves without
needing much more decoration. For smaller homes and therefore smaller columns,
consider additional embellishments such as recessed and raised panels.
The key with columns is to balance the space. Seek professional advice
if you have to- It will help to select the right column for the space you are
working with.
With these pointers in mind, I bet you can better envision the columns
that will sit in your entry-way or living room just right. As with all else,
the best choice of interior columns will be unique to your taste, existing
decor, and the outcome you are aiming for. Add that touch of class your home is
itching for!