The capital and the base decide how a column meets the roof and the ground. Decorative Architectural Products makes custom column capitals and bases for new and existing columns, in styles from plain to ornate.

Capital styles and types

Column capital styles follow the classical orders. A Tuscan or Doric capital is simple, an Ionic capital has scrolls, a Corinthian capital carries acanthus leaves and a composite capital combines them. These column capital types differ in height and in how far they project. Architectural column capitals can also be modern, with clean profiles and no ornament. Knowing the parts of a column capital helps with a drawing: the abacus is the flat top, the echinus is the curved part below it and the neck joins the shaft.

Bases and plinths

A column base can be an attic column base, a Doric column base without ornament or a stepped base with a square plinth underneath. The plinth raises the shaft from the ground and protects it from splashes. Column capitals and bases are made as a set for a round or square shaft, so the column capital and base read as one design, or each piece can be ordered separately for an existing column.

Material and finish

Each piece is CNC-cut from high-density EPS and covered with a polyurea hard coat, which makes it light enough to mount high and resistant to moisture and UV. A concrete column capital look can be painted onto the surface, and stone, plaster and wood-look finishes are also available. Decorative column capitals and bases can be matched to the finish of nearby trim and cornices.

Ordering

Send the shaft diameter or width, the column height, the style and a photo of the column. We prepare a drawing, produce the capitals and bases and arrange freight across the United States. Our products carry a 20-year warranty.

How it works

1. Brief: send shaft size, height and style.
2. Design: we draw the capital and base for approval.
3. Production: CNC cutting, coating and finishing.
4. Delivery: freight with installation guidance.

Request a quote and send us the column size and style.