Most decorators design a room around a highlight or focal point, the area or object that attracts the most notice and becomes the center of attention. Emphasizing the focal point can give the room character and capture its essence. The focal point can be accentuated so that everything else in the room seems to revolve around it. Sometimes a room will have a natural focal point, like a special kind of window, a fireplace or another type of architectural feature. If not, it is possible to create a dramatic focal point with lighting, artwork and accent furniture.
Architectural Focal Points
- The Fireplace
If a room has a fireplace, it generally becomes the focal point by drawing the eye from the moment you enter the room. Some fireplaces have interesting features like a beautiful mantle, natural materials like brick or stone, or if it has an unusual shape. To play up the fireplace you can set a bunch of flowers on either side or use pictures, candles and other accessories to add visual impact.
- Windows and Doors
A bay or bow window or a dramatic Palladian or French door can become the focal point of a room, especially if the view is arresting. The same holds true for a large picture window or a wall of windows, if you are lucky enough to have them. The view might be of natural greenery or a swimming pool outside, or, if you live in a city, the hypnotizing sight of city lights and the hustle and bustle below.
- Creating a Focal Point
A beautiful piece of accent furniture can easily become the focal point of a room, like a curio cabinet that displays a collection or an interesting table. Another technique used by decorators to create a focal point is to use an over-sized painting or an interesting work of art like a large sculpture. To emphasize the artwork, you can focus gimbal recessed lights that rotate and revolve. An accent wall or elaborate rug can work wonders, especially for an open layout.
- Placing Furniture
Once you establish the focal point, furniture, especially seating, should be arranged around it, taking traffic patterns of the room into consideration. Use the focal point to create symmetry, harmony and balance of individual furniture pieces. Typically, the focal point is visible from the moment you enter the room.
