Patterns and colors
As column covers conceal unsightly structural details, they also add value to a setting. Incorporating intricate patterns and impactful colors, columns are an important element of the design intent. They develop the personality of an environment and create visual intrigue. Through the addition of colors and patterns breathing new life into columns, indispensable support beams turn into focal points, capturing texture, depth,
and movement as a defining feature of a space.
Communicating the tone of a design, the colors of columns enhance the mood of an environment with their ability to create the bright, airy feel of light colors within commercial environments, or the warm, refined sensation that comes from deep and moody hues. The colors of the columns also play a role in how the size of a space is perceived. Designers can specify calm, muted shades for an open, spacious atmosphere, and bold, darker shades for a dramatic, intimate look and feel. When choosing the shades of column covers, considering color choice is an important decision.
In addition to color, pattern specification choices play an important role in the character of a space. Transforming solid metal into a textural focal point, patterns suggest movement within an environment through intricate designs, organic textures, and gradient embellishments. Vertical linear patterns and gradient details can promote the height of a space, creating an illusion of taller columns that draw the visitor’s attention upwards, opening the visual space. Incorporating reveals within the column covers at the seams allows for linear patterns to run smoothly from section to section. In contrast, patterns which are non-directional can create a unique visual texture that emphasizes the surroundings and adds to the complexity of the architecture.
Turning a structural element into a three-dimensional decorative metal surfacing feature, the patterns and colors of column covers not only deliver functional and space-defining form but also supply high quality, long-lasting durable designs for commercial spaces.
Material options and finishes
In high-traffic public spaces, material durability is a key concern in the design process. Finishes and materials crafted with hardwearing substances, such as stainless steel or solid-core-aluminum, can withstand the wear and tear of high occupancies and harsh disinfectants in commercial spaces. Two of the strongest and most sustainable materials in the world, stainless steel and aluminum column covers have the capability to merge thoughtful design and the resilience while providing the dependability the materials is known for.
Column covers have an array of finish possibilities to meet the versatile needs of commercial spaces. While stainless steel and aluminum are the ideal cover materials for interiors and exteriors alike, their look and feel can also be further enhanced. For example, selecting a grained or embossed stainless-steel column cover not only enhances durability, but also creates an eye-catching element within a space. When specifying aluminum columns in high-traffic areas, a finish is required. Topcoats on column covers provide a protective film for scuffing and scratching resistance and are important to consider, while gloss or matte qualities can impact the column cover’s shine. Architectural-grade vinyl is another finish which increases longevity. If the columns support a building’s exterior, selecting an abrasion-resistant finish formulated to withstand direct sun exposure supports the covers’ durability as they endure these natural elements.
