Developers can use SQL Server “Denali”, MS SQL Server 2008 R2 and MS SQL Server 2005 Table Designer to rename a column directly in their tables, by following the next steps:
1. In Object Explorer, right-click the table with the columns they want to rename and choose Design (Modify in SP1 or earlier). The table opens in Table Designer.
2. Under Column Name, select the name they want to change and type a new one.
The column is renamed in their table as soon as they exit the cell. The column is renamed in their database they save the table.