Choosing a focal point is an easy way to make any space stand out and create a bold statement. Even with just a few changes, focal points can draw attention and transform the tone of an area. 

Importance of a Focal Point

Our eyes will naturally be drawn to certain features in every room. The art of focal points is the manner in which we consciously construct this gaze. Having one major spot of interest helps ground the room and can even influence the configuration of the furniture. 

Built-in Features

Certain rooms may already have character that acts as a built-in point of focus. Some examples include large windows (like in a sunroom), sunken floors, fireplaces, arched ceilings, and vintage touches in historical buildings. 

Instead of trying to compete with the natural qualities of the room, we suggest working with the current attributes to bring even more harmony. You may prefer to find ways to highlight these features by keeping the rest of the furniture and color scheme muted in order to enhance the natural charm.

Focal Point Ideas

There are many ways to capture this natural interest in a space. You can use one distinct item, bold colors, or even group many items together to create a point of attraction. 

Focal points can highlight the ceiling, walls, floors, or even center stage of any room. Get creative in the many ways you can change the energy and style of your space. 

Keep in mind that most rooms can handle up to three focal points, especially in combined rooms like open concept kitchens. If there are more than three, then it is easy to get distracted by all the excitement and some of the key pieces may actually be lost in the mix. 

Artwork

A unique and stunning piece of artwork is a great choice to spice up plain walls. Large pieces demand attention. Create even more impact by ensuring the lighting doesn’t mask the color of the piece. You may want to invest in under or overhead lighting to make it pop even more.

Artwork is an easy way to change the entire mood of the room. It also gives a good starting point to choose your accent colors. Bring in the subtle tones with items like pillows, candles, and furniture. 

Accent Walls

Accent walls can make any room pop. Choose a high-contrast backsplash for your kitchen, or a patterned wallpaper in your bedroom for a touch of intrigue. 

Strong and bright colors on one wall can liven up any dull space without the time and effort of painting everything. You may even try painting the bottom half of one wall in order to elongate the space and still draw attention. 

A good rule of thumb is to keep the accent wall furthest from the entryway. This helps prevent the bold color from being overwhelming or making the room feel smaller than it is. 

Light Fixtures

Focal points aren’t just for the walls. Elaborate fixtures like chandeliers bring focus to the center of the room and one-of-a-kind lamps can bring a point of interest wherever you place them. 

Most importantly, light is a great way to enhance the other focal points in the room and blend all of the accents together. 

Statement Furniture Pieces

Furniture can be for beauty as much as function. Choose pieces with an unusual size, color, texture, or form to instantly create a special aesthetic. 

This technique is best used in living rooms and bedrooms where furniture is a natural focal point. By selecting an eye-catching bed frame, couch, coffee table, or shelf, you can automatically make your space stand out.