Pillars in living rooms play vital roles, both structurally and aesthetically. While they offer support, they can sometimes disrupt your living space or clash with your design style. If you seek ways to camouflage or enhance these pillars, you’re in the right place. This blog offers techniques and ideas to effectively hide a pillar in your living room.

Top Ways to How to Hide a Pillar in Your Living Room

Embrace the Pillar with Decorative Finishes

1. Painting:
   A straightforward method is to paint the pillar to blend it with your living room. Select a colour that matches or contrasts with your walls. You can also add texture using stencils, faux finishes, or decorative wallpaper.
2. Wallpaper:
   Another option is wallpaper. Numerous designs and patterns exist that can add a unique flair to your living area. Whether you prefer subtle textures or bold prints, wallpaper can transform a plain pillar.

Cover the Pillar with Natural Materials

1. Wood:
   For a cosy, rustic feel, consider wrapping the pillar with reclaimed wood panels. This not only hides the pillar but also adds a natural touch. Choose from various wood finishes to match your desired look.
2. Stone or Tile:
   For a luxurious or modern vibe, clad the pillar with stone veneer or decorative tiles. These materials offer texture and depth, blending well with your decor.

Make the Pillar Functional with Built-In Additions

1. Shelving:
   Transform the pillar into a useful feature by adding built-in shelves or niches. This hides the pillar while offering extra storage or display space for books, plants, or decor.
2. Fireplace Surround:
   If the pillar is near a fireplace, extend the mantelpiece or craft a custom surround. This turns the pillar into a captivating focal point, enhancing your living room’s atmosphere.

Use Simple Covers like Decorative Screens or Curtains

1. Room Dividers:
   Use decorative screens or dividers to hide the pillar without affecting its structure. These flexible options come in diverse styles to match your decor.
2. Curtains or Drapes:
   Another temporary fix is hanging curtains around the pillar. This adds softness and visual appeal while allowing you to modify or remove the fabric easily.

Illuminate the Pillar with Lighting Features

1. Recessed Lighting:
   Install recessed lighting in the pillar to boost its aesthetic while providing practical illumination. This creates a modern look, blending the pillar with the room.
2. Accent Lighting:
   Alternatively, highlight the pillar using accent lighting like wall sconces or LED strips. These fixtures produce a dramatic effect, making the pillar stand out.

Use Architectural Elements to Cover the Pillar

1. Columns:
   If the pillar allows, transform it into a faux column or pilaster by adding decorative mouldings, capitals, and bases. This architectural detail can elevate the elegance of your living room.
2. Arches:
   Frame the pillar with an archway or half-wall to integrate it into a larger architectural feature. This can create a sense of cohesion and symmetry in the space.

Multimedia Features to Hide Pillars

1. TV Enclosure:
   Mount a flat-screen TV on the pillar and surround it with a custom-built enclosure. This not only hides the pillar but also creates a dedicated entertainment zone.
2. Sound System:
   Install speakers or a soundbar within the pillar to create a built-in audio system. This combines functionality with aesthetics, saving space and reducing clutter.

Reflective Surfaces to Cover Pillars

1. Metallic Finish:
   Apply a metallic paint or foil finish to the pillar to create a reflective surface that catches and plays with light. This can make the pillar appear less imposing and more dynamic.
2. Glass or Acrylic Panels:
   Install transparent or frosted glass/acrylic panels around the pillar to create a sleek, modern look. This adds a layer of sophistication while maintaining visibility.

Functional Art in Front of the Pillar

1. Sculpture or Statue:
   Place a freestanding sculpture or statue in front of the pillar to draw attention away from it. Choose a piece that complements your decor style and serves as a conversation starter.
2. Floating Shelves:
   Install floating shelves on the pillar’s surface to display artwork, collectibles, or decorative items. This not only covers the pillar but also adds storage and display space.

Textural Play to Add Visual Interest

1. Fabric Wraps:
   Wrap the pillar with luxurious fabrics like velvet, silk, or linen to add texture and a touch of opulence. This can transform the pillar into a tactile and inviting element.
2. Mosaic or Tile Work:
   Cover the pillar with mosaic tiles or patterned ceramic tiles to create a vibrant and intricate design. This adds visual interest and can become a focal point in your living room.

FAQs About Hiding Pillars in Living Rooms

Can I remove a pillar entirely from my living room?
Removing a pillar can jeopardise your home’s structure. Consult a structural engineer and secure necessary permits before attempting this. Instead, try creative ways to hide or enhance the pillar.

How much does it cost to hide or decorate a pillar?
Costs vary based on materials, labour, and project complexity. Painting or wallpapering might be budget-friendly, while natural wraps like wood or stone could cost more. Consult professionals for accurate estimates.

Can I add shelving around a load-bearing pillar?
Yes, but consult a structural engineer or contractor to ensure safety. Proper planning is crucial when modifying load-bearing structures.

Are there temporary ways to hide a pillar?
Yes, use decorative screens, curtains, or drapes for temporary concealment. These options let you experiment with styles without permanent changes.

How can I add lighting to a hidden pillar?
Integrate recessed lighting, wall sconces, or LED strips into the pillar. These lighting types can enhance its appearance and provide functional light.

Does hiding a pillar affect my home’s resale value?
The impact depends on the quality of modifications. Well-executed transformations that enhance your living room are unlikely to decrease resale value. Consider potential buyers’ preferences and consult real estate professionals if concerned.

What are the creative uses for pillars in living rooms?
Pillars can become functional and decorative features in your living room. Here are some ideas:

• Decorative Finishes: Paint or wallpaper pillars to match or contrast your decor.
• Natural Wraps: Use wood or stone to wrap pillars for a cosy or luxurious feel.
• Built-In Additions: Add shelves, niches, or lighting to transform pillars.
• Room Dividers: Use screens or curtains to hide or partition pillars.
• Lighting Features: Install recessed, wall, or accent lighting to highlight pillars.

Conclusion

Interior design in the UK is embracing innovative techniques to seamlessly hide pillars, merging functionality with aesthetic elegance. Concealing a pillar in your living room can be a rewarding design challenge. With creativity and planning, you can transform this structural element into a stylish and functional feature. Whether you choose to embrace it with decorative finishes, wrap it in natural materials, add built-in features, use screens or curtains, or incorporate lighting, there are numerous ways to enhance or hide its presence. So, get creative and turn that pillar into a design triumph!