Columns were first used as a necessary structural element, and eventually evolved into a decorative accent as well. Today, columns are used on interiors and exteriors, and their purpose is often decorative. A column is divided into three section, the base (bottom), shaft (middle), and capital (top). The decorative characteristics of these three sections determine the style of the column.
Corinthian: Corinthian columns were commonly used by the ancient Romans, and are often present in a large-scale, grandiose interior or exterior. The capital of the column features two rows of acanthus leaves, which are topped by four spirals over the leaves.
Doric: Doric columns are much simpler in style than Corinthian columns, with a simple, curved shape on the capital. The main ornamentation on a Doric column is the fluted shaft. Doric columns were favored by the ancient Greeks.
Ionic: Ionic columns have capitals with two distinct spirals. This style was used by both the ancient Greeks and ancient Romans, with the Greeks preferring a fluted shaft and the Romans preferring a smooth one.
Romanesque: Romanesque columns are also known as Norman columns, and feature a very simple curved capital, and a smooth shaft that is the same width at the top of the column as at the bottom. These columns are typically used in exteriors, especially in a garden/landscape setting.
This article is based on research from numerous sources, including but not limited to: REALTOR.org®, WindowAndDoor.com, JackieCraven.com, Architecture.About.com, CalFinder.com, Roof101.com, RealtorBenefitsProgram.org, GuideToColumns.com, bhg.com.
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