Hiding Unsightly Support Columns: Six Ideas

Basements and other rooms with large open spaces often require hiding unsightly support columns. Usually, these columns are simple metal poles that run from floor to ceiling. These columns may not be particularly attractive, but they can be decorated, minimized or incorporated into the room's interior design so that they have little or no impact.

Decorative Columns

You can buy column wraps from large hardware stores. These wraps include 2 main pieces of PVC that fit together around the column, as well as extras likes base pieces and caps. This method does not hide the columns, but gives them a more appealing look. The most common style is just a box, but they can also be tapered or rounded. Wraps can also be used to effectively line up multiple columns that are not quite placed uniformly.

Alternatively, you can build custom column enclosures that meet with a particular decorative theme.

Stylish Seating

Another approach is to simply box in the columns and then build bench seating that goes around them. Start with a square case for the column, and then add seating around that. The 'island' seating effect not only helps to hide the column, but can create the illusion of having more space. You can also use the space beneath the seat cushions for convenient storage.

Creative Shelving

Box in the column, and then build shelving on one or more sides of the column. The shelves may be low shelves with a cabinet or counter-top, or they may be built to run from floor to ceiling. If one side features deep shelving, add a tall mirror to the back face.

This is one of the most popular methods for hiding support columns because it adds storage area to the room. You could even build a shelf and cabinet unit that revolves around the column it conceals, adding a nice flair to the room.

Custom Shelving

Consider building a custom bookcase that runs between two columns, or from the column to a wall. By including the column into the bookshelf, it is both removed from sight and moved to a position where it will no longer be a stand-alone obstacle when moving through the room.

Room Design

It may not always be possible to hide the column. In a situation where the column can not be effectively concealed, it can still be used as part of the room décor. Use the faces of the column to hang artwork, tapestries or mirrors in ornate frames.

Another option is to attach flower pot hangers to the column, or even use the column itself as a support for running plants. For plants, the structure offers it protection from accidental tipping—a fair trade for helping to conceal the unsightly column.

As a Last Resort

If all else fails, place a piece of large furniture next to the column. A large chair, chaise lounge or even bed placed next to a column will help reduce its impact on the room. Similarly, columns can be used as anchors for lighting and lamps.