Your living room pillars don’t have to remain plain architectural elements – they can become stunning focal points that transform your space. Interior designer Sarah Matthews notes, “Pillars offer unique opportunities for both decorative and functional enhancements that can elevate your entire room’s aesthetic.” From sleek mirrored tiles to natural stone veneers, you’ll discover multiple ways to enhance these structural features while maintaining their essential purpose.
1. Add Mirrored Mosaic Tiles
- Start at the bottom of the pillar and work your way up, applying adhesive in 2-foot sections
- Space tiles 1/8 inch apart using plastic spacers for professional results
- After 24 hours of drying time, apply grout between tiles with a rubber float, then wipe clean
- Apply a metal lath to the pillar’s surface, securing it with galvanized nails every 6 inches
- Mix the mortar according to manufacturer specifications and spread it 1/2-inch thick using a trowel
- Press each stone veneer piece firmly into the mortar, maintaining 1/4-inch spacing between stones
- Select panels that match your home’s style – traditional raised panels for classic homes or sleek, flat panels for modern spaces
- Measure your pillar’s circumference and height, adding 10% extra material for mistakes
- Install a plywood backing first to guarantee panels have a solid surface for mounting
- Begin by measuring your pillar’s dimensions and sketching your desired pattern on paper – triangles, hexagons, and diamonds work particularly well
- Apply 1-inch painter’s tape in straight lines at 45- or 60-degree angles for precise edges
- Paint between the tape lines with 2-3 coats, waiting 2 hours between each coat for proper drying
- Install mesh trellises or plant support wires around your pillar, spacing anchor points 12 inches apart
- Place climbing plants in decorative pots at the pillar’s base, using well-draining potting soil
- Train vines to grow upward by gently weaving new growth through supports every 2-3 weeks
- Choose grasscloth wallpaper for a natural, organic look that adds warmth
- Consider vinyl textured options for high-traffic areas and easier maintenance
- Use metallic or embossed patterns to create dramatic visual interest and reflect light
- Choose warm white LEDs (2700-3000K) for a cozy atmosphere or RGB strips for color-changing effects
- Install the power source near the pillar’s base, hiding wires behind baseboards
- Use adhesive clips every 12 inches to secure strips and prevent sagging
- Install weathered brass or brushed nickel sconces with frosted glass shades for a timeless look
- Select fixtures rated for 40-60 watts to achieve the perfect ambient glow
- Mount sconces symmetrically on opposite sides of pillars, spacing them 6-8 inches from pillar edges
- Install shelves at eye level (around 57-65 inches from the floor) for ideal viewing and easy access
- Choose glass shelving with LED strips underneath for a modern, illuminated display
- Keep displayed items lightweight and secure them with museum putty to prevent accidents during vibrations
- Choose thin aluminum or copper sheets from your local hardware store, measuring 1/16 inch thick for easy installation
- Cut the metal sheeting to size using tin snips, adding 1 inch overlap for secure seams
- Install the wrap by applying construction adhesive in vertical strips, then securing edges with decorative nailheads spaced 6 inches apart
2. Create a Stone Veneer Surface
Remember to work in small sections, and don’t forget to seal the finished surface after 48 hours of curing time.
3. Install Decorative Wood Panels
Pre-cut your panels to size, apply construction adhesive, and secure with finish nails every 16 inches for a professional look.
4. Paint Geometric Wall Patterns
A striking geometric pattern can transform your living room pillars from basic architectural elements into eye-catching focal points. Using painter’s tape and your chosen paint colors, you’ll create stunning designs that complement your existing décor.
Remember to remove the tape while the final coat is still slightly wet for the sharpest lines possible.
5. Add Climbing Plant Display
6. Wrap With Textured Wallpaper
Select a wallpaper that complements your room’s color scheme and architectural style. You’ll need precise measurements and proper adhesive for the best results.
7. Install LED Light Strips
LED light strips offer an elegant way to transform ordinary pillars into striking architectural features while providing ambient lighting for your living room. You’ll want to measure your pillar’s height and circumference before purchasing strips that’ll cover the entire surface.
“Professional installation guarantees proper voltage distribution across longer runs,” says lighting designer Mark Chen. Align strips vertically or spiral them around the pillar for different effects.
8. Install Metallic Wall Sconces
9. Add Recessed Display Shelves
While wall sconces provide elegant lighting, recessed display shelves can transform ordinary pillars into striking focal points with practical storage. You’ll want to plan carefully before cutting into the pillar, ensuring you don’t compromise its structural integrity. A professional contractor can help determine the safe depth, typically 4-6 inches.
10. Create Metallic Column Wraps
Metallic column wraps offer a dramatic way to update plain pillars with sophisticated shine and texture. You’ll find various metal finishes available, from brushed nickel to antiqued copper, that can transform your living room’s support columns into striking architectural features.
For best results, clean your pillars thoroughly and measure twice before cutting your metallic materials.
