10 Differences Between Pillar and Column (With Table)

The terms “pillar” and “column” are often used interchangeably, but they actually have very different meanings. While a pillar is a strong, upright support that is often made of stone or wood and is used to hold up structures, a column is a vertical support or structure that is used to hold up a heavier load.

Both are used for structural purposes, but the differences between the two can be quite significant. In this article, we are going to share the differences between Pillar and Column.

Difference Between Pillar and Column

Subject	Pillar	Column
Height	Typically shorter than columns	Typically taller than pillars
Thickness	Typically thicker than columns	Typically thinner than pillars
Material	Can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, stone, and concrete	Can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, stone, metal, and concrete
Purpose	Often used to support roofs or arches	Often used to support beams or balconies
Standalone or Connected	Can be free-standing or connected to a wall	Often connected to a base or pedestal
Location	Can be found in a variety of settings, including homes, churches, and temples	Can be found in a variety of settings, including homes, churches, temples, and public buildings
Decoration	May be plain or ornately decorated	May be plain or ornately decorated
Shape	Can be square, round, or polygonal in shape	Can be round, square, or polygonal in shape
Function	May be used to divide a space or create an enclosure	Often used to support a structure or create an architectural feature
Load-Bearing or Decorative	Can be load-bearing or purely decorative	Can be load-bearing or purely decorative

What Is Pillar

A pillar is a vertical structure that supports a load. It is typically shorter and thicker than a column and can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, stone, and concrete. Pillars can be found in a variety of settings, including homes, churches, and temples.

It can be used for a variety of purposes, including supporting roofs, arches, and balconies. They can be plain or ornately decorated and can be square, round, or polygonal in shape. Pillars may be purely functional, or they may be decorative in nature.

What Is Column

A column is a vertical structure that supports a load. It is typically taller and thinner than a pillar and can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, stone, metal, and concrete. Columns are often connected to a base or pedestal.

It can be found in a variety of settings, including homes, churches, temples, and public buildings. They can be used to support beams, balconies, and other architectural features, and can be plain or ornately decorated. Columns may be purely functional, or they may be decorative in nature. They can be round, square, or polygonal in shape.

The Features of Pillar

Appearance

Pillars are usually cylindrical or polygonal in shape and may be solid or hollow. They can range from simple columns to ornate, decorative structures that are both structurally and aesthetically pleasing.

Materials

Pillars are often constructed from materials such as stone, brick, metal, wood, and concrete.

Structural Support

Pillars are commonly used as structural supports for buildings and other large structures. They can be used to support the weight of the structure, and can also be used as decorative elements.

Finishes

Pillars may be left unfinished or they can be painted, stained, or otherwise decorated.

Versatility

Pillars can be used in a variety of applications, from structural support to decorative accents. They can be used indoors or outdoors and can be adapted to fit the needs of any space.

Sizes

Pillars are available in a variety of sizes, from small columns to large pillars.

Installation

Pillars can be installed with minimal effort, or they can be custom-fitted to suit the space they are being installed in.

Durability

Pillars are very durable and can withstand heavy loads and extreme weather conditions.

The Features of Column

Height

Columns are typically taller than pillars, with a height ranging from several feet to several stories depending on the specific project.

Thickness

Columns have a thinner structure compared to pillars, with a diameter ranging from a few inches to several feet depending on the size and load-bearing requirements of the structure.

Material

Columns can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, stone, metal, and concrete. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, including cost, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

Purpose

Columns are primarily used for structural support, helping to distribute the weight of the structure evenly and preventing collapse. They may also be used for decorative purposes, adding visual interest and appeal to a building or structure.

Standalone or Connected

Columns are usually connected to a base or pedestal, which helps to distribute the weight of the structure evenly and provides additional stability.

Location

Columns can be found in a variety of settings, including homes, churches, temples, and public buildings. They may be used in both interior and exterior spaces.

Decoration

Columns may be plain or ornately decorated, with options for carvings, moldings, and other decorative elements.

Shape

Columns can have a round, square, or polygonal shape, and may be tapered or fluted. The shape of the column is often chosen for its aesthetic appeal and structural properties.

Function

In addition to providing structural support, columns may also be used to create architectural features such as arches and porticos.

Load-Bearing or Decorative

Columns can be load-bearing, meaning they are responsible for supporting the weight of the structure, or they can be purely decorative, serving no structural purpose.

Pillar vs Column Comparison

Height

Pillars are generally shorter in height compared to columns. This means that pillars are best suited for supporting shorter loads or for use in smaller spaces. Columns, on the other hand, are typically taller and are better suited for supporting taller loads or for use in larger spaces.

Thickness

Pillars tend to have a thicker structure compared to columns. This means that pillars can support more weight per unit of volume than columns. However, the thickness of a pillar may also make it visually dominant in a space, while a thinner column may be more subtle.

Material

Pillars can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, stone, and concrete. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, such as cost, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Columns can also be made from materials like wood, stone, metal, and concrete, and the choice of material will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the project.

Purpose

Pillars are often used to support roofs, arches, and balconies, while columns are often used to support beams, balconies, and other architectural features. The specific purpose of a pillar or column will depend on the size, shape, and load-bearing capacity of the structure.

Standalone or Connected

Pillars can stand on their own or be attached to a wall, while columns usually have a base or pedestal. The choice between a standalone pillar or a connected column will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the project.

Location

Pillars can be found in various places like homes, churches, and temples, while columns can be found in a variety of settings, including homes, churches, temples, and public buildings. The location of a pillar or column will depend on the structural needs and design aesthetic of the space.

Decoration

Pillars may have simple or elaborate designs, while columns may also have simple or elaborate designs. The level of decoration on a pillar or column will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the project and the desired aesthetic.

Shape

Pillars can have a square, round, or polygonal shape, while columns can have a round, square, or polygonal shape. The shape of a pillar or column will depend on the structural needs and design aesthetic of the space.

Function

Pillars may be used to divide a space or create an enclosure, while columns are often used to support a structure or create an architectural feature. The specific function of a pillar or column will depend on the size, shape, and load-bearing capacity of the structure.

Load-Bearing or Decorative

Pillars can be used for structural support or purely for aesthetic purposes, while columns can also be used for structural support or purely for aesthetic purposes. The choice between using a load-bearing pillar or column or a decorative one will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the project.

30-Seconds Summary: Pillar vs Column

• Pillars are generally shorter and thicker than columns.
• Pillars are often used to support roofs or arches, while columns are often used to support beams or balconies.
• Pillars can be made from materials like wood, stone, and concrete, while columns can be made from materials like wood, stone, metal, and concrete.
• Pillars may have simple or elaborate designs and can have a square, round, or polygonal shape, while columns may also have simple or elaborate designs and can have a round, square, or polygonal shape.
• Pillars may be used to divide a space or create an enclosure, while columns are often used to support a structure or create an architectural feature.
• Pillars can be used for structural support or purely for aesthetic purposes, while columns can also be used for structural support or purely for aesthetic purposes.

Related: What’s The Difference Between Glass and Crystals [With Table].

Pillar vs Column Cost Difference

The cost of pillars and columns can vary widely depending on a variety of factors, including the materials used, the size and shape of the structure, and the level of decoration.

In general, columns may be more expensive than pillars due to their taller, thinner design and the fact that they often require a base or pedestal. However, the final cost will depend on the specific project and the materials and labor involved. It is important to consult with a contractor or designer to get an accurate estimate of the costs associated with using pillars or columns in a construction project.

Pillar and Column: Which Is Best?

This really depends on what you‘re trying to accomplish with your project. Pillars are often used to make a statement or to add a decorative touch to a space. Columns, on the other hand, are typically used for structural purposes. So, if you need something to hold up a balcony or a roof, a column would be a better choice. If you want something to make a grand statement, then a pillar could be a better choice. Ultimately, it depends on your needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Pillar and Column are almost the same in their look, but there are several differences in their functionality. They are not used for the same purpose. Moreover, columns are used in different contexts too other than architectural contexts.

We hope, after going through this article, all the confusion related to differences between pillar and column has been erased. So, next time don’t mess up with this two-term.

The Frequently Asked Questions

Can pillars and columns be used interchangeably in a construction project?

While pillars and columns can both be used for structural support, they have different characteristics and may not be suitable for all types of structures or in all locations. It is important to consider the size and load-bearing requirements of the structure, as well as the materials being used when deciding which type of structural element to use.

How do the materials used in pillars and columns affect their cost and durability?

The materials used in pillars and columns can have a significant impact on their cost and durability. Materials such as stone and concrete are generally more expensive than wood but are also more durable and resistant to wear and tear. The specific needs and requirements of the project, as well as the desired aesthetic, should be taken into consideration when choosing materials for pillars and columns.

Can pillars and columns be used for both structural and decorative purposes?

Yes, pillars and columns can be used for both structural and decorative purposes. They may be used to provide structural support to a building or structure, and can also be adorned with decorative elements such as carvings, moldings, and paint to enhance their aesthetic appeal.

Can pillars and columns be customized to fit the needs of a specific project?

Yes, pillars and columns can be customized to fit the needs of a specific project. Options may include different materials, shapes, sizes, and levels of decoration. It is important to consult with a contractor or designer to determine the best customization options for a specific project.

What are some common materials used in the construction of pillars and columns?

Some common materials used in the construction of pillars and columns include wood, stone, metal, and concrete.