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Columns can be distinguished in a number of ways, depending on the setting where they will be applied, as well as the material outcome and purpose of such columns, and these types have been categorized into structural, ornamental, and advertising columns among other types.
Structural Fake Columns
With structural fake columns, these are employed to create support or to give the impression that they provide support. In the larger schemes of things, structural fake columns may not be necessary and can be installed in structures that have internal support beams, but in some instances, such columns are necessary, especially when creating archways and other structural features when remodeling. Structural fake columns are commonly made out of lightweight materials, and polyurethane or fiberglass, which are all designed to hold the plasterwork without adding unnecessary pressure on the house frame.
Ornamental Fake Columns
Ornamental columns are faux created with the sole purpose of beautifying a particular setting and improving the general outlook of a building or a room. These columns are not intended to support any weight and are primarily placed in the interior and exterior of a building. Polyurethane columns, plaster columns, concrete columns, and wooden columns are the most common ornamental fake columns. Wooden ornamental coat hangers can also be distinguished as unique and sometimes sold at a premium price due to the intricate design involved in the production process.
Advertising Fake Columns
Fake pillared advertising columns are established by marketers to advertise products, services, or lifestyles. It is commonplace to see them displayed at trade shows, exhibitions, and launch parties to capture attention and raise brand awareness. Often, an advertising column is produced through combinations of cardboard, foam board, or even thin plastic, and an exquisite design is displayed as the best decorative feature and effective utilization.
The design of fake columns is dictated by a myriad of factors that include the intended setting, culture, and style preferences. Below are some of the common design details that will help outline the make-up of fake columns.
Style and Aesthetic
Based on the desired theme, faux column designs can be classified into classical, contemporary, colonial, and other themes. Classical columns are likely to use Greek and Roman details such columns like fluting, acanthus leaves, and volutes, which are characteristic of this style. Contemporary columns have smooth finishes and straight lines devoid of any decorative motifs.
Material Selection
Material choice in designing fake columns influence their appearance, cost, and ease of installation immensely. Wood is great for details and strength, while plaster offers a classic look but is rather expensive and difficult to install. Fiberglass is light, rigid, and good for making replicas of plaster molds, while polyurethane is also light and can be easily shaped into various products, but it's not water-resistant. The columns can be made strong and comfortable for outdoor use by using water-resistant materials.
Height and Proportions
Engaging proportions and height of the column are important considerations for maintaining aesthetic value. Inevitably, classical column proportions should be preserved when targeting a classic style, while contemporary designs may afford more leeway in proportion and height. Normally, faux columns have the height of a standard door, thus making them suitable for interior pieces and can go as high as a few feet for exterior columns if appropriate.
Finishes and Textures
The texture and finish of fake columns are one of the possible ways to change their outlook entirely. Columns can be plain, polished, and low-key, or they can have intricate details of the artwork. Finishing options include paint, veneer, or laminate, and they are all aimed at achieving the desired finish and texture of the real column.
Faux columns can ideally fit into numerous contexts wherein the treatment of a space, be it interior or exterior, is given a new columnar treatment.
Residential Interiors
Faux columns can ideally be placed almost anywhere in the house and come in handy when trying to add some architectural splendor to a bland room. They are mostly used in living rooms, dining areas, and hallways as an attribute, often used to create a picture of a doorway or archway leading to another room. Faux columns may also be used to flank windows, creating the illusion of the correct classical style of the Renaissance.
Residential Exteriors
In residential exteriors, faux columns can be utilized in porches, patios, and, to be more specific, in the overall design of a building. They can be placed on porches and serve as supports for the porch roof, or they can be flanking doors or gates, thus adding a touch of sophistication. Pilasters, or columns jutting out from walls, are also ideal features in building facades and serve the dual purpose of architectural embellishment and the classic column’s structural functionality.
Commercial Spaces
As for commercials, faux columns remain a popular marketing and branding tool nowadays and can be seen in various retail shops, showrooms, and eateries, where they are used to define a new style. They are also used in restaurants to create distinct dining areas and give the inside a more posh hotel feel. In retail, fake columns can also be used to embody brands or promote certain products, offered in certain styles and colors.
Events and Exhibitions
Faux columns are some of the most popular designs that can be used when organizing events or displays. They contribute positively to the theme or concept of the event, as they do in advertising. Used at trade shows, they can be integrated into the booth designs and thus used to create the look of a room or an area with a distinct style about it.
Knowledge of specifications and maintenance requirements of faux columns is critical for their successful installation and durability.
Installation Requirements
The installation process depends on the column type and the setting in which it is installed. Some are easier to handle and include adhesive or bolts to attach them on the floor/ceiling/wall or other fixtures, while some, like load-bearing columns, require extensive framing work. Most faux columns are cut to fit and set up without much technical expertise required. Still, ensuring that every column is straight and level is crucial for a wow factor in the end.
Weight-Bearing Capacity
Faux columns are not meant to support significant weight. Faux columns are meant to create an illusion of support while real columns do the work of supporting the structure. Because faux columns do not bear the load, one should not attempt to use them as support for heavy objects, furniture, or anything meant to rest on the ceilings or roofs, especially in their interiors.
Maintenance and Care
The maintenance of faux columns is generally less as opposed to hassle faced with maintaining real columns, but this depends on the material used. Wooden columns may need varnishing or polishing, plasterwork may need repapering or replastering, while fiberglass and polyurethane require wet wipes and regular polish dusting. Painted or veneered columns ought to be repainted or re-varnished, respectively, to maintain their original stature. If left outside, it is recommended that the column be treated with a coat of UV protectant to prevent the column from fading due to sunlight exposure.
Yes, some faux columns are suitable for outside use so long as they are made from water-resistant materials like fiberglass or treated wood.
The stability of faux columns can be improved by securing them to the floor or ceiling with brackets or adhesive.
Faux columns can be customized with various finishes, materials, and designs to match specific styles or themes.
Materials like fiberglass, aluminum, or treated wood are ideal for outdoor faux columns exposed to moisture.
