Decorative Columns - The Secret to Creating an Elegant Living Room

Decorative columns are a timeless way to add elegance and sophistication to any living room design. With the right selection and placement, columns can completely transform an ordinary space into one with style, character and visual appeal.

From exploring popular column styles to creative installation suggestions, read on to discover the secret to designing an elegant, magazine-worthy living space.

Different Column Styles and Key Features

Columns come in a variety of designs, each with their own unique aesthetic. Here are some of the most popular options for living rooms:

Greek Columns

Known for their simple elegance, Greek columns feature plain, unadorned shafts and have modest capitals and bases. Their balanced proportions lend a light, airy feel.

Roman Columns

Roman columns take inspiration from ancient architectural designs, with ornately carved detailing on the capital and base. Fluted column shafts add visual interest.

Gothic Columns

Gothic columns have a medieval style, with pointed arches, vertical grooves and ribbed edges. Intricate decorative moldings enhance the ornate look.

Colonial Columns

Colonial columns have a tapered column shape and understated ornamentation for a simplified, symmetrical aesthetic. Their clean lines lend a light, breezy feel.

Selecting the Right Column Materials

Material choice makes a significant impact on the overall look and feel of decorative columns. Here are some top options:

• Wood: Provides a traditional, timeless look perfect for rustic or farmhouse styles.
• Marble/Stone: Marble or stone columns create an elegant, upscale aesthetic and feel substantially luxurious.
• Iron: Wrought iron or cast iron columns lend an industrial, vintage vibe with an ornate twist.
• Fiberglass: Affordable, lightweight and easy to install, fiberglass allows flexibility in column designs.

Where to Position Columns in Your Living Room

Proper placement is key for columns to have maximum visual impact. Some recommended positions include:

• Along walls: Defines separate living room spaces or "zones"
• Flanking fireplace: Draws focus to the fireplace as a focal point
• Framing entryways: Provides a graceful entrance into the living room

Anticipate traffic flow and seating arrangements when planning column placement.

Determining Appropriate Column Size

For the best proportions, column size should relate logically to the surrounding space. Some guidelines:

• Scale columns to complement the room's ceiling height
• Select a column diameter between 1/6 and 1/8 of the total column height
• Avoid narrow widths that seem spindly or massive columns that obstruct openings

An experienced architect can help determine ideal column size and scale.

Creative Column Installation Ideas

Beyond just structurally supporting columns, get creative with these installation and design ideas:

• Incorporate built-in shelves for storage options
• Highlight architectural details with pendant or recessed lighting
• Add mirrors, art or wallpaper to column surfaces
• Use metallic finishes like gold leaf or high-gloss paints
• Introduce color with two-tone paint schemes

Hiring a Professional for Installation

While DIY column installation is possible, complex jobs are best left to qualified professionals. Experts can:

• Ensure proper structural engineering and support
• Handle tricky installations for heavy materials like marble
• Flawlessly execute your perfect column vision

Find experienced contractors through referrals from architects and interior designers.

Inspiring Gallery of Living Rooms with Columns

Need a little design inspiration? Browse this gallery of gorgeous living rooms enhanced with decorative columns:

The decorative columns can transform a room. Column selection, placement, scale and installation are all important considerations. By following the expert tips we've outlined, you'll be able to leverage columns to cultivate an elegant, inviting living room space.