Support Pole -- Johnny Pole

I can't remember where I found the great photo below. But I love how they made a support beam and pole a major fixture in the home. I have a Johnny, (support) pole in my family room and it doesn't look quite as grand. I am looking for ways to jazz it up. Any suggestions?


My support pole, that can't be moved, and clear story windows above, that are old and ugly, but now open to let in the light. But, what to do to make this pole not look like a stripper pole. Oh, and on a budget, well, no budget, just no money. So as cheap as possible.
Any suggestions?