One of the best parts of the updates announced in the October 2021 Animal Crossing Direct was that players would be able to use unlockable features shown during the Happy Home Paradise DLC in their own homes in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. These features included ceiling items, partition walls, island counters in two sizes, and pillars. However, you’ll have to work quite a bit to unlock them in your own home.

Columns are pillars used to support the roof of a structure and are usually found at the end of partition walls to make things flow better. Island counters provide a platform on which you can place all sorts of household items, like in the kitchen.

These new building features are two of many features included in the new Happy Home Paradise DLC. With these perks, you can divide larger rooms into sections to create smaller spaces like bathrooms without dedicating an entire floor or wing to one concept.

How can I unlock columns and island counters?

You’ll have to have the full retail version of Animal Crossing: New Horizons alongside the Happy Home Paradise DLC to unlock columns and island counters. The Happy Home Paradise DLC can be bought individually, but subscribers to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack automatically gain access to the DLC with no additional charge.

Once you’ve acquired the DLC, you’ll have to go through quite a few steps to unlock columns and countertops.

1. Head to the airport in your game.

   

   Source: iMore

2. Talk to Orville and select the option, “I want to go to work.” Now it’s time to take off!

   

   Source: iMore

3. After landing, follow Niko to Paradise Planning and meet Lottie, your new boss.

   

   Source: iMore

4. Complete 15 jobs on the archipelago.

   

   Source: iMore

5. The next time you visit the archipelago, Niko will give you the DIY for pillars and island counters. He asks you, Lottie, and Wardell to visit the school so he can explain how they’re used. Pay attention because there’s a pop quiz!

Note: You’ll be able to use pillars and island counters on your own island once you’ve received the DIY for them from Niko in the Happy Home Paradise DLC.

How do I use columns and island counters?

Columns can be used to create corners without spaces when using partition walls inside a home. As for island counters, you can use them to create windowsills or make kitchen countertops without using an extra table. Island counters are available in two heights, allowing for more of the customization versatility that makes Animal Crossing: New Horizons such a great game.

More space!

The customization options in Animal Crossing: New Horizons are more expansive than ever with the introduction of the Happy Home Paradise DLC. Being able to use partition walls, island counters, and pillars on your own island in the base game after unlocking them opens up entirely new avenues for sprucing up your home. There are all kinds of facilities and customization options to unlock as you complete more jobs, so get to it!