Names and Purposes

• The three Greek column types are doric, ionic and corinthian. The columns can be used to add decorative elements to a building, support massive structures like roofs, or serve both of these purposes simultaneously. The exact combination of column type and architectural purpose depends on the building being constructed and what needs your columns must fulfill.
  
  

Doric

• The doric column is the simplest of the Grecian columns. The capital, or top of the column, is composed of a rounded ring topped with a flat, square block. The body of the column is faceted to have 20 sides, giving the doric column a geometric, symmetrical shape. The space running directly above a row of columns, the frieze, would be muted in style when adorning doric columns.
  
  

Ionic

• An ionic column has more height than the other orders of Grecian columns. Ionic capitals look like a pair of scrolls facing downward. Unlike doric columns, ionic ones have an articulated base of rings stacked on top of each other. Due to the length of an ionic column, a bulge is shaped into the column to create the illusion of slenderness from whatever angle it is viewed. A blank, unadorned frieze tops ionic columns.
  
  

Corinthian

• The most embellished of Grecian columns, corinthians are highly decorated in many aspects. The column is fluted vertically around the body and has a bulge, just like an ionic column. A corinthian capital is adorned with leaves and flowers, which are topped with a scroll design. The base on corinthian columns is similar to ionic columns, except the corinthian rings are thicker and fewer.