When designing a room, a kitchen, a living room, a sun room, etc., one of the biggest things to think about is the focal point. What in that room will draw the eye’s attention? What will be the capturing piece? The focal point of any room will set the design tone for the rest of the room overall. Whether you particularly love a light fixture, a piece of art, a fireplace, or a wall color, highlighting one of these items as your focal point will help bring the room to a finished, visually pleasing space.
Not sure where to begin? Read on and take a look at the photos below for inspiration.
Paint on the Color – Have a favorite hue? Use that as your focal point. Use your favorite color in the wall paint or opt to dress the wall in a uniquely patterned wallpaper with your preferred tint. Find inspiration in your furniture and artwork to blend the room together. Opt for a yellow themed living room or a rustic, autumn inspired sitting room like those shown below. When choosing color as your focal point, aim for different and/or bright. While subdued colors work well in an overall atmosphere, if you are aiming to grab attention, an upbeat hue is sure to do the trick.
Rug is the Word – Patterns underfoot can make a great focal point in any room. Choose rugs that contrast with your furniture and walls to entice the eyes downward. Geometric or paisley patterns spice up neutral rooms while textured rugs can bring warmth and interest to modern or luxurious designed areas. Bright colors beneath the toes is also a tried and true way to inspire.
Tile it On – Many believe that tile only belongs in bathrooms and/or kitchens. We are here to tell you otherwise. Tile inspired wall paneling can make incredible center points in any room. For instance, take a look below. This room’s beauty comes from the tiled seafoam walls. While the furniture is handsome, the inspiring design is found framing the window with its simple patterned design and pop of color. No need for drapery or shades, this room is vibrant alone in its almost historic southern seaside nature.
Awe with Architecture – Should you be lucky enough to have an architectural beauty of a home, use it as your focal point. Gorgeous stone or wood fireplaces are a steadfast focal point used in many homes. Not only will large fireplaces draw the eye in, if given a mantle, you have more space to display your treasures which will be seen by all who enter the room. If you live where the views are breathtaking and vast, take advantage of the scenery by highlighting the room’s windows. Emphasize the big windows of a home, or even better, make those windows unique like the ones shown below for special interest. Brick walls and wooden beams may also be your chosen focus. Architectural centers can be found in many forms, you just need to find the ones that are already in your home and design to accentuate them.
Aim High – In newer homes, high ceilings are now the norm and the reason is obvious – more height makes for what feels like more room. High beams also force our eyes upwards so why not continue the rooms’ constructural design and use your ceiling as your focal point? Paint it a contrasting hue, wrap it up with a brightly patterned wallpaper, address it with a textured ceiling to match with crown molding and wainscoting. Or, install wood beams or laminate wood tiles to draw the eye up. Wood ceilings are becoming more popular each year in custom properties; thus, why not in your own?
Find your Center in Art – Commonly found in homes, art serves as a proven focal point. Gently hang your prized possessions over the fire place for immediate response or simply rest a framed piece on a console table similar to that shown below. Use your old bikes and outdoor equipment as a distinctive focal point or opt to have a mural painted on a bare wall. Turn an outdated cabinet into your room’s art by repainting and adhering a patterned design. The piece or pieces you choose to represent your focal point can be found in whatever you are attracted to. There is no wrong focal point if it makes you content and happy.
Remember that your own focal point is not limited to what is listed above. Anything you desire can be your masterpiece – a worldly treasure, a unique high back chair, a decorative wall panel. The possibilities really are endless. We encourage you to play with your design and if you seek guidance, give us a call at 406-755-7373 or stop in our downtown Kalispell showroom. We can help you find your perfect piece to highlight with our room service option or one of our designers can help you design your entire room.