Ornamented Columns... Is all the 'faff' necessary?

It has been revealed that Michael Hansmeyer is creating some new ornamented columns. Upon discovering this I thought it would be a good idea to think about the necessity of the over-design of the pillars. They are incredibly beautiful as seen in the proposed CAD drawings, and add a contrast to the environment they are being placed in but why is it needed?

There is no denying that this work is not beautiful, which is often the case when discussing work in my essay, "The Crystal Goblet: A Fine Vintage?" but the pillar is a pillar and therefore should be doing it's job of supporting.