Pilasters

Definition

Pilasters are architectural elements that resemble a flattened column, often embedded into a wall and used to provide decorative relief and structural support. They are a key feature in colonial architecture, echoing classical styles and reflecting the influence of European aesthetics on American building design. Pilasters not only serve as visual accents but also emphasize the verticality of a structure, drawing the eye upward and adding a sense of grandeur to both public and private buildings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pilasters were commonly used in colonial buildings to mimic the appearance of classical columns while providing a practical solution for supporting structures.
2. They can be found in various styles of colonial architecture, including Georgian, Federal, and Neoclassical designs, often adorned with intricate carvings or fluting.
3. In addition to their structural role, pilasters helped to define spaces within a building, creating a sense of order and symmetry in interior layouts.
4. Pilasters often flank doorways and windows, drawing attention to these openings and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the facade.
5. The use of pilasters reflects the broader trend of incorporating classical elements into American architecture during the colonial period, signaling cultural aspirations toward European ideals.

Review Questions

• How do pilasters contribute to the overall design and functionality of colonial architecture?
  • Pilasters enhance both the aesthetic and structural qualities of colonial architecture. They serve as visual markers that draw attention to entryways and windows while also providing essential support to walls and roof structures. By mimicking classical columns, pilasters add an element of grandeur and symmetry to buildings, contributing to the harmonious proportions typical of colonial designs.
• Discuss the relationship between pilasters and classical architectural principles in the context of colonial architecture.
  • Pilasters exemplify the adoption of classical architectural principles within colonial architecture. They reflect the influence of European design traditions that emphasized proportion, balance, and ornamentation. By integrating pilasters into their buildings, American colonists not only paid homage to classical styles but also asserted their cultural identity through architecture that mirrored their European roots.
• Evaluate how the use of pilasters in colonial architecture has influenced modern architectural practices in America.
  • The incorporation of pilasters in colonial architecture has had a lasting impact on modern architectural practices in America. They continue to be employed in various styles to evoke historical references and create visual interest in contemporary designs. As architects blend traditional elements with modern aesthetics, pilasters serve as a bridge connecting past influences with current trends, highlighting an enduring appreciation for classical beauty in American architecture.

Related terms

Colonial Revival: A late 19th and early 20th-century architectural movement that sought to revive elements of colonial architecture, including the use of pilasters.

Entablature: The horizontal structure supported by columns or pilasters, typically consisting of an architrave, frieze, and cornice in classical architecture.

Cornice: The uppermost section of a wall or building that projects outward, often serving as a decorative element that caps the structure.