What is a rectangular feature in the shape of a pillar, but projecting only about one sixth of its breadth from the wall?

What is a rectangular feature in the shape of a pillar, but projecting only about one sixth of its breadth from the wall?

• A. Pilaster Strips
• B. Buttress
• C. Column
• D. Piers

Answer: (A)

A shallow, wall-attached vertical element called a pilaster. It’s like a flattened pillar embedded in the wall, projecting only a small amount—about one-sixth of the wall’s thickness—so it reads as a vertical rhythm without breaking away from the wall. This distinguishes it from a full column, which is freestanding or much more prominently projected and carries a capital and base; a buttress, though it can project from the wall, is a thicker support designed to resist thrust; and a pier is a heavier, more substantial vertical support. So the described feature fits a pilaster strip perfectly, providing decorative and rhythmic articulation while remaining part of the wall.

A shallow, wall-attached vertical element called a pilaster. It’s like a flattened pillar embedded in the wall, projecting only a small amount—about one-sixth of the wall’s thickness—so it reads as a vertical rhythm without breaking away from the wall. This distinguishes it from a full column, which is freestanding or much more prominently projected and carries a capital and base; a buttress, though it can project from the wall, is a thicker support designed to resist thrust; and a pier is a heavier, more substantial vertical support. So the described feature fits a pilaster strip perfectly, providing decorative and rhythmic articulation while remaining part of the wall.