pilaster, in Greco-Roman Classical architecture, shallow rectangular column that projects slightly beyond the wall into which it is built and conforms precisely to the order or style of the adjacent columns.
What kind of column is a pilaster?
rectangular column
What is the difference between a pilaster and a pillar?
Essentially, the difference between a pillar and pilaster is that pillar is (architecture) a large post, often used as supporting architecture while pilaster is (architecture) a rectangular column that projects partially from the wall to which it attached; it gives the appearance of a support, but is only for
What do you call a column against a wall?
In classical architecture, a pilaster is an architectural element used to give the appearance of a supporting column and to articulate an extent of wall, with only an ornamental function.
Are pilasters structural?
A pilaster is an ornamental and structural column. It is an upright architectural member that is rectangular in plan. A pilaster is a rectangular support that resembles a flat column. Structurally it is a pier but architecturally it is treated as a column.
What is the difference between a pilaster and a column?
A column is a freestanding round shaft. A square column is called a pier. When a round column is attached to a wall, it is called an engaged column; and when a pier is attached to a wall, it is called a pilaster.
Are pilasters load-bearing?
Pilaster is frequently also referred to as a non-ornamental, load-bearing architectural element in non-classical architecture where a structural load must be carried by a wall or column next to a wall and the wall thickens to accommodate the structural requirements of the wall.
What are wall pilasters?
A pilaster is a strengthened section that is designed to provide lateral stability to the masonry wall. Pilasters can be the same thickness as the wall but most often project beyond one or both wall faces.
What are pilasters used for?
Pilasters are traditionally used for decorative rather than structural purposes, often as a means of breaking up an otherwise empty expanse of wall. As with columns, different classical orders can be represented, and the surface of a pilaster can be left plain or can be fluted.
What are pilasters made from?
Pilasters are normally found on a building's exterior, but they can also be found on the interior walls of a more formal rooms and hallways. They can be built from different materials, including wood, brick, and marble.
What is the purpose of a pilaster?
While the primary purpose of a pilaster is to provide lateral support, in many cases it may also be required to support vertical loads such as those imposed by beams or other framing members. When this occurs, pilasters are designed as columns and function as primarily as compression members.
What are two different types of pilasters?
The most popular types of pilaster shaft are fluted and paneled.