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!