Columns in modern rooms
In ancient times, columns served as supporting structures, and only later began to play a decorative role in the interior. The classic column consists of three parts:
- base - or base (lower part);
- trunk (central part);
- capitals (top part).
The bottom and top parts may sometimes be missing. The capital is the most decorative element of the column, decorated with elegant ornaments and regal bas-reliefs.
Modern columns can have the following design options:
- colonnades;
- paired columns (or united by one arch);
- semi-columns.
Paired columns are a classic option. They are usually located on both sides of the fireplace, window or staircase. Installation to opposite walls makes it possible to delimit the space, dividing it into functional zones. If they are united by an arch, this effect is enhanced.
Most often, paired columns have only a decorative function, participating in the design as an element that unites the space into a single zone, emphasizing the overall style.
Colonnades. This type of column is a great way to unobtrusively zone a space. If their location is determined at the construction stage, they can become a supporting structure, also carrying a functional load.
Half-columns - imitate columns protruding from the walls. The role in the interior is actually the same - creating a visual accent, zoning the room. It is very easy to frame a fireplace or window with them, fixing them against the wall, since they do not carry any functional load. They look no less expressive in the interior than traditional ones.
Interior design using columns can dramatically transform a room. With their help, it is easy to make a spectacular accent where it is needed.
Keep in mind that the shapes and sizes of columns significantly affect the perception of space. Tall, thin designs bring more grace to the interior, visually expand the space and increase the height of the room.
Thick ones, on the contrary, can visually make the room smaller. However, they give it fundamentality and create a feeling of strength and reliability.
Materials for construction
Now let’s move on to the question of what materials these elements are built from.
In practice, a house with columns has many options for implementation.
The material must be selected based on:
- general style of the house or building;
- material used to build the house;
- load expected to be applied to the support.
This gives rise to several potential options.
- Reinforced concrete
. Such supports are also called monolithic. Sounds nicer. But the point is important. This is a structure based on a reinforcement frame. Filled with concrete. Construction takes minimal time. Plus it’s financially beneficial. Withstand high loads due to the combination of metal and concrete. An ideal solution for large private houses in a classic style. They have increased vertical rigidity. This allows the structures to be used as the main supports for two-story houses with large, wide balconies. But without additional decor they look dull. It needs to be painted, puttied, etc.; - Metal
. Usually this is a solid pipe, which can have a rectangular, square, or round cross-section. Installation requires a minimum of time. But the material is very expensive. Transportation and installation involve the use of equipment. Suitable for houses with a maximum of 2 floors. Simple metal does not have high strength to hold massive elements like reinforced concrete. It is necessary to treat with anti-corrosion agents. Suitable for loft and high-tech style; - Brick
. A popular option for creating columns in private low-rise modern houses. The material is durable and can withstand heavy loads. Metal pipes are used for reinforcement. And the brickwork is already being done around them. Additional decor is not necessary; - Wood
. An ideal choice to build a house with columns, built of wood. It is based on a rounded log or timber. Eco-friendly material. Easy to process. You can apply carvings, ornaments, and designs. Or leave it in its natural form, treating it with products like Pinotex for wood. Looks impressive. But protection from moisture is required. The wood must be moisture resistant and not subject to rapid rotting.
We can also talk about stone supports. But usually the stone is used as a decorative element. And the base is built from reinforced concrete.
Art Deco
A style that combines features of baroque and antiquity, sometimes modern. The shape of the columns must be strict and the lines must be clear.
In the upper and lower parts they can be decorated with gypsum stucco (gypsum will successfully replace polyurethane). If we talk about color, white, the classic version, is preferable.
History of origin
The very first mention of the column dates back to the 27th century BC in Egypt. A local architect (builder) named Imhotep built a tomb for the then pharaoh. The tomb was crowned with a colonnade of 40 columns made of alabaster. The height of each of them was about 10 meters. This object is called the Pyramid of Djoser. The building has survived to this day.
Step pyramid of Pharaoh Djoser - the very first in Egypt
Examples of Egyptian style columns
See alsoEclectic style in the interior
Retro
In this case, the finish will be rough, not luxurious. It can be natural stone or imitation, aged wood.
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High tech
This style requires unexpected and original ideas. For example, futuristic ones: illuminated glass columns that are filled with liquid with air bubbles moving upward.
The main recommendations are to use metal, create shiny surfaces that reflect light.
Unity of the pragmatic and the sublime
Columns are an amazingly expressive element of interior design.
They appeared and continue to exist in architecture as a supporting element supporting the vaults of fairly spacious rooms. And the reverent attitude towards columns, as a sublime, solemn, monumental element, is associated not only with ancient tradition. The sheer size of the premises that require additional load-bearing structures evokes a certain respect.
Adapting existing columns to the interior, making them the “highlight” of a modern stylish design, or recreating the spirit of antiquity in individual apartments using an exquisite imitation of colonnades is an interesting task, with many possible solutions. We hope that our short guide will help you choose the right direction, use columns in an original way in the interior, and let your sense of style serve as your compass.
Columns in the interior
Loft
Clear square and rectangular shapes would be appropriate here. Imitation of brickwork and concrete, rough plaster are suitable for decoration.
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Interesting design ideas
In order for the column to successfully blend into the setting, becoming part of the whole picture, sometimes creative solutions are needed
- current technique is a combination of rough stone finishing with soft materials;
- columns installed nearby can easily be converted into a homemade shelving unit;
- using columns, you can create a niche to place a TV or music center;
- with properly equipped lighting, you can highlight a decorative niche inside where a painting, antique dishes or sculpture will be located;
- You can delimit the space even more effectively by placing a cabinet or rack between the columns.
Use your imagination to use this interior detail as profitably as possible. Modern possibilities allow you to decorate your home based on any taste preferences.
