5 Great Focal Points to Help Jumpstart Your Design

What’s one secret to a well-designed room? A great focal point! A focal point often set the tone and mood for a space–and, because it’s the first thing your eye sees upon entering, it’s important to get it right. Below are 5 suggestions for focal points that you can successfully build a room around. Putting one of these elements front and center will help create an interior that’s both interesting and pleasing to the eye.

Architectural feature. A fireplace is the perfect example of an architectural feature. To make it stand out, arrange the furniture so it revolves around it. The color of your fireplace can also set the tone for your furniture and drapes. Be sure to keep the size of the architectural in mind as you design. Making sure everything is to scale will make or break the overall look of your room.

No fireplace, but have a killer view? Make the window(s) the focal point. Even if you do have a fireplace, an epic view often trumps. Windows in general (epic view or not) make a great focal point when there’s nothing else in the room to use. To keep the focus on the windows and/or view, choose simple furniture that will complement the feature.

Artwork. Artwork can serve very nicely as a focal point, whether you opt for one large, bold piece or a series of prints. When positioned properly, the rest of the room can shine. Again, scale is important, as is the tone of the art itself. You don’t want the size or the colors within the piece to clash with the rest of the room.

Texture. Texture isn’t something that’s often thought about when it comes to a focal point, but what better way to draw the eye in a room that doesn’t have an architectural feature to showcase? Take your kitchen, for example. A neutral palette will immediately draw the eye to a counter-to-ceiling backsplash. The color and sheen of the tiles will certainly be the star of the room.

Pattern. Pattern is another excellent way to capture the eye. Something like a granite feature wall or wallpaper on the ceiling will add interest and character to a room. Add some clever lighting and the pattern will most certainly be the center of attention. 

Color. Color, especially when it involves paint, is probably the easiest way to create visual interest. It doesn’t really matter how you use it–painted doors in the hallway, a splash of color on a prominent architectural element or distinguishing wall, an artful area rug, or a different hue on the ceiling. You can even use a beautiful fabric to have a custom or heirloom piece upholstered. However you choose to use color will benefit your home, even when it’s used in small doses. But remember, you’re trying to create a focal point, so don’t be afraid to go bigger and bolder for more impact!

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