Pilaster – what is it? How to use it in interiors?
Pilaster is an architectural element that was used in ancient Greece. For centuries, it has served both a structural function, reinforcing the walls of buildings, and a decorative function, adding elegance and prestige. To this day, pilasters are a symbol of sophistication, decorating the interiors of homes and commercial premises.
Although pilasters are currently a forgotten element, they can significantly change the appearance of the interior. Their use in contemporary arrangements adds a unique charm and elegance to the rooms. Pilasters can be used in various interior styles, from classic to modern, creating a harmonious whole with other elements, such as ceiling moldings or cornices. Introducing pilasters to the interior is a way to give it a unique character and emphasize its style.
What will you learn from this article?
What is a pilaster?
A pilaster is a flat, rectangular architectural element resembling a column, which protrudes slightly from the surface of the wall. It consists of three main parts: the base of the pilaster, the shaft of the pilaster, and the capital. The base of the pilaster is located at the base and serves as the foundation, most often taking the form of a rectangular block. The shaft of the pilaster is the main part and is what we most often think of when talking about pilasters. It is an elongated element, smooth or decorated with subtle millings. The capital is the most decorative part. It is a unique decoration, which is an effective ending at the top and can take both a richly decorated form in the Baroque style, full of floral shapes, and a minimalist one, adapted to interiors with a less decorative character.
Compose your perfect set
In terms of appearance and function, pilasters differ from columns and semi-columns. While columns and semi-columns are three-dimensional and can be used as independent structural elements, pilasters are flat and adhere to the wall, becoming a coherent element of wall arrangement. Nowadays, pilasters are mainly used as a decorative accent in interiors, giving rooms a classic character, emphasizing their uniqueness.
What functions do pilasters perform?
Pilasters have played different roles over time, changing their use depending on the era and architectural style. Initially, they were an important structural element, but over time they became a more decorative accent that adds elegance and sophistication to both facades and interiors.
Facade pilasters with a structural function
In the past, facade pilasters had a primarily structural function. They supported the walls of buildings, increasing their stability and strength, especially in the eras of ancient Greece and Rome, as well as in the Renaissance. At that time, pilasters were made of durable materials such as stone or brick, which made them heavy and laborious to build and assemble. Over time, with the development of new construction technologies, pilasters began to play primarily a decorative role, losing their original structural significance.
Pilaster as a decorative element on the wall face
Today, pilasters are mainly decorative, constituting an elegant element of interior design and building facades. Contemporary arrangements use pilasters to add classic charm and sophistication to rooms. They can be successfully used in large, open living rooms in private buildings as well as commercial premises, e.g. halls rented for various events or in restaurants.
Choose your favorite style!
Currently, modern materials are used for the production of interior pilasters, and one of the most popular is polyurethane, which is extremely light, which facilitates the assembly process and also allows for high precision and detail of decorations. Mardom Decor products are additionally coated with a matte primer during the production process, which increases the adhesion of the dye to the surface. The surface dedicated to painting, primed with a special primer, allows for easy and repeated painting of pilasters in any color. Thanks to this, they can be freely adapted to the individual needs and architectural style of a given interior.
How to use pilasters in interiors?
Contemporary pilasters can be used in many creative ways in homes, adding elegance and character to various rooms. They are perfect as decorative eye-catchers, especially in living rooms, dining rooms or hallways. They can also be used as door decorations, creating effective frames for entrances to rooms. In bedrooms, pilasters can be used to accent the wall behind the bed, adding a classic character to the interior. They can also be combined with other moldings, such as decorative wall moldings, rosettes, ceiling moldings or modern lighting strips.
Pilasters also work well in commercial interiors. In offices, hotels or restaurants, pilasters can serve as stylish architectural details that attract the attention of customers and guests. They can be used to distinguish reception areas, staircases, and conference spaces, adding prestige and professionalism. In stores, pilasters can serve as an elegant background for products, emphasizing their quality and value.
Why is the use of pilasters in interiors a good solution?
Using pilasters in interiors is a great way to add elegance and character to rooms. These classic architectural elements introduce a unique style and can be used in both traditional and modern arrangements.
Here are some of the advantages of using pilasters in interiors:
- Aesthetics: Pilasters add elegance and class to interiors, creating a sophisticated atmosphere.
- Versatility: They can be used in various rooms, from living rooms to kitchens, and in commercial spaces. However, it is worth remembering to choose materials that are adapted to the type of interior.
- Easy to install: Modern pilasters, made of lightweight materials such as polyurethane, are easy to install and adapt to various interiors.
- Personalization: The surface of the pilasters is primed, which allows them to be painted in any color, adapting them to the individual needs and style of the room.
- Architectural highlighting: Pilasters can enhance and complement existing architectural elements, such as doors, windows or fireplaces.
Thanks to these advantages, pilasters are a functional and aesthetic solution that enriches interiors and gives them a unique charm.
See more inspiration on our Instagram!
Instagram Mardom DecorRead also
