There's no question about it - load-bearing columns present a challenge for home design. But they're often unavoidable in many open floor plans.
Here are some creative ways to decorate to make your load-bearing columns an attractive part of your decor:
- Display artwork on load bearing columns
There are many ways in which you can use your columns to display art pieces, such as paintings for floating typographic artwork. You can use downlighting to cast shadows on your columns and make the art more noticeable.
- Create seating around the column
You can create seating around the base of the column, or even place a bench between two columns - perhaps as space where family and visitors can take their shoes off.
- Add lighting
Another great way to decorate columns is by integrating light effects. There are many possibilities, including down- or up-lighting, or a small, lit box to showcase a sculpture or other piece of art. Just make sure to check with your architect before you cut into a beam to create lighting.
- Creative decorating with the kids in mind
You don't always have to use columns for cool detailing, art, or other designer looks. You can also use them as a fun place for kids, such as applying chalkboard paint and wallpaper to convert it into a blackboard. Your children will love it and obviously enjoy the freedom of scribbling on it or practicing their art. Make sure that the column has a minimum width of two feet.
- Use it to anchor a counter
Is there a column in the middle of your kitchen? No problem! You can use it as a pivot point that anchors a breakfast or other type of counter. It will add an element of playfulness to the room as well as a bit of quirkiness to an otherwise plain-looking space.
- Making it tactile
You might as well make central columns - that will be the center of activity - pleasant to touch. For instance, you could wrap some rope around a wood column that you'll want to run your fingers across as you walk by it. Of course, cat owners will note how their feline friends love to use it as a scratching post.
7.Make two columns into a bookcase
Two columns close together will create an ideal space to create shelving for a bookcase, a lighting display, or even a storage space.
- Use it as space for a minibar
Why not use a column or two columns close together as a space to create a minibar or an ice station?
These are just some of the many ways of decorating load-bearing columns in a way that blends well with your decor while also showing off your creativity.