How to Find a Focal Point

A fireplace can serve as a focal point in a room.

Finding the focal point in a room is the key to a successful interior decorating project. The focal point is the center of attraction in a room. It gives a person who comes into a room a view that she can focus on and enjoy. The space also becomes more attractive and inviting if the decoration and the furniture arrangement are oriented towards the focal point . A room may already have a focal point, so it's just a matter of finding it; but if there is none, you can create one.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Decorating plan
• Decorative accessories

1. Look around your room. Examine the area and identify what feature catches your attention the most. It can be an architectural feature such as an archway, fireplace, built-in book case or a window with a stunning view.

2. Identify the largest piece of furniture. If your room has no outstanding feature, look at the pieces of furniture in the room; the largest one can become the focal point. In a bedroom, the focal point is usually the bed, simply because of its size. If your bed is not eye-catching, you may want to replace it with a more attractive one, or put a striking comforter set on it. In a dining room, the largest pieces of furniture are usually the dining table and chairs, so they can serve as the focal point.

3. Think of the items that you will be putting in the room. If your room is newly built and it is still empty, or if you plan to renovate a room, consider the furniture or items you want to place in it. For example, in your newly-finished basement, a big leather couch or a painting could be the focal point. A vanity sink can be the the focal point in your newly-renovated bathroom.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you have determined your focal point, orient your room towards the focal point. For example, for your window with a spectacular view, your couch and chairs should be facing the window.

• Use accessories or lighting to draw attention to the focal point. If the focal point is a painting, use a picture light or a track light; if it's a fireplace, put attractive decorations on top of the mantle.

• Having too many focal points can be tiring to the eyes and may create a cluttered look. Ideally, there should only be one main focal point, and a few other interesting features that do not compete with the major focal point.

References

• Thepropertycoach: How to Find a Room's Focal Point
• Home Furnishings: How to Find a Focal Point in a Room
• Interior Home Decorating-Ideas: Furniture Arranging Plan it Your Way

Resources

• Apartment Ideas: Creating a Dramatic Focal Point
• iVillage: 9 Ways to Create a Focal Point in a Room