The tapered columns idea is based on the ancient Roman and Greek design. ... To have a smaller top than bottom means that the top of the column will look smaller and the building will look taller. In a way, the tapered column is supposed to look like a non-tapered column on a taller building.

What are tapered columns called?

Doric. Developed by ancient Greek architects, Doric columns are round, slightly tapered and almost squat. They are characterized by a simple necking, a convex echinus and a square abacus. The style was later adapted and tweaked by the Romans.

What is a tapered post?

Tapered posts are peeled by a high-speed machine that follows the contour of the log. The finished post has the characteristics of each piece of wood. Because the tree is tapered, the post is tapered. These posts are measured by the small end. The advantage of a tapered post is that you get more wood for the money.