Final answer:
Elevation on piles or columns in architecture is preferred for reasons such as creating organic expression, compensating for structural imbalances, and decorative purposes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Elevation on piles or columns would be preferred in architectural design for various reasons. In some cases, columns may be elevated in order to create a sense of organic expression or to emphasize the weight of the structure. For example, the Greeks used a technique called entasis to create a bulge in the middle of the column shaft. This optical illusion made the column appear straight from a distance, but conveyed a sense of weight when viewed up close.
Another reason for elevating columns or piles is to compensate for structural imbalances. Placing columns closer together on the edges of a building can create a problem in the levels above, as it affects the placement of triglyphs in the Doric Order. By elevating the columns slightly, architects can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing design.
Elevating columns or piles can also serve decorative purposes. Cylindrical piers, for example, can be adorned with linear decorations, such as chevrons or lozenge shapes, which create interesting visual patterns and shadows.