Welcome Back to the ‘Do It Yourself’ Series!
Hello, and welcome to another installment in our “Do It Yourself” series. Within these articles, we take you by the hand to help unravel the mysteries cloaked within the world of interior design. Laughs are guaranteed – and an education in designing your living spaces? Well, that comes at no additional cost. Today’s topic unravels the art of choosing and accentuating a focal point in your room.
Understanding What a Focal Point Is
The term ‘focal point’ may sound imposing, but really, it’s one of the simplest concepts in interior design. You see it every day. Sometimes, it’s the extravagant fireplace that grabs attention the moment you step into the living room. Or, it’s the colossal pendant lamp hovering above the dining table. It’s all about perspective; identifying an object or a spot in your room that singularly pulls attention.
A focal point is meant to set the tone and the theme for the rest of the room. But most importantly, it gives you a starting point in your design journey. Always start with a good focal point!
You don’t have to panic if your room doesn’t seem to have an obvious focal point. It’s a blank canvas then, and you get to choose your own focal point from scratch. Isn’t that exciting?
Selecting Your Room’s Focal Point
In choosing a focal point, consider the room’s natural architecture. Look for unique features within your room. Maybe it’s a beautifully framed window or a retro fireplace. Its uniqueness will stand out.
Can’t find a unique architectural feature? No problem! Create one with furnishings or artwork. An oversized painting or a tall bookshelf can become a winning focal point.
But remember, a focal point should draw attention without screaming for it. It should subtly beckon the viewer’s eyes. Basically, it’s an attention–seeking diva that knows how to play it cool.
Positioning Furniture to Enhance Your Focal Point
Ever heard of the phrase, “location, location, location?” Well, in interior design, it’s all about “positioning, positioning, positioning”. To accentuate your focal point, you need to orient your furniture in a way that draws the eye towards it.
Imagine your focal point is a fireplace. Position your sofa and armchairs in a way that faces the fireplace. Imagine the fireplace as a magnetic force pulling everything towards it. The same theory applies to whatever your focal point may be—window, artwork, or even a vintage pool table.
The bottom-line is, don’t let your furniture throw a party on their own. They should all contribute to enhancing the charm of your chosen focal point.
Decorate Around Your Focal Point
Decorations around your focal point should not overshadow it, but rather work to complement it. Think of it as the background singers to a lead vocalist. They harmonize, but never outshine the star.
So if your focal point is a fireplace, hanging a mirror above it isn’t a bad idea. It helps to visually expand your space and draw further attention to your fireplace. Or perhaps you could place vases on the mantle with colors that contrast with your wall—just enough to subtly invite attention.
Ensuring your focal point remains the focus amid your decorations is an art. But with practice, soon, even the Mona Lisa will have nothing on your living room!
Lighting Up Your Focal Point
Now, the final trick up our sleeve—lighting! When done right, it can significantly enhance the appeal of your focal point. Think again of our fireplace friend. Imagine having wall sconces on either side, casting a soft, warm glow onto the brickwork. Seriously, who wouldn’t want to cozy up with a novel there?
If it is artwork we are talking about, accent lighting can help to highlight the colors and details to make it truly pop. If it’s a large window, avoid heavy drapes that block the natural light.
Always remember, the focal point should be the brightest area in your room. Because in the world of design, the spotlight (pun absolutely intended) always falls on the focal point.
Learning to choose and highlight a focal point can feel like learning to ride a bicycle. It may be unsteady at first, but soon it becomes second nature. And just like riding a bike, the experience becomes more enjoyable as you become proficient. The focal point isn’t just the heart of the room, it’s the soul that sets the tone and mood. So go ahead, find yours and let it shine!
If you are still unsure, don’t worry! That’s why I’m here. Why not contact me for a free consultation? Or, if you want your inbox to be graced with more tips and tricks, don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!
