Column Connections
. . . the columns are in position, and have been tied together by a perimeter beam—Box Columns, Perimeter Beams. According to the principles of continuity which govern the basic structure—Efficient Structure, the connections need stiffening to lead the forces smoothly front the beams into the columns, especially when the columns are free standing as they are in an arcade or balcony—Arcades, Gallery Surround, Six-Foot Balcony, Column Place. You may also do the same in the upper corners of your door and window frames—Frames as Thickened Edges—making arched openings.
Problem:
The strength of a structure depends on the strength of its connections; and these connections are most critical of all at comers, especially at the comers where the columns meet the beams.
Background & Research: Not Included on the site—Go read the book!
Solution:
Build connections where the columns meet the beams. Any distribution of material which fills the corner up will do: fillets, gussets, column capitals, mushroom column, and most general of all, the arch, which connects column and beam in a continuous curve.
Usage:
The connection is one of the most natural places for Ornament: there is a wide variety of possible connections, carvings, fretwork, painting, for this critical position. In certain cases, the connection may act as an umbrella for a Column Place . . .
pg. 1068