How to Create a Focal Point in Any Room

Every room needs a focal point — it’s a basic design principle. Your eye needs somewhere to land, and a focal point draws you into a room. But if you’ve got a big empty canvas, how to you create one in your space? We’ve got some ideas.

Look at Your Architecture

The architecture of many rooms may already designate a specific focal point which is a huge help. Think mantels, french doors, an oven hood in a kitchen, a freestanding bathtub in a bathroom, or a large bank of windows. When your room already has strong architecture, you won’t have to work so hard while decorating. Simply use the existing architecture and build from there.

In this room designed by Kate Singer, the fireplace is the focal point which she’s emphasized even more by flanking it with two large bookcases and adding a oversized painting.

See more of Kate Singer’s room in the 2016 Traditional Home Hamptons Showhouse.

Use Height

If you don’t have existing architecture in your space that creates a defined focal, create one with height. A large armoire or bookcase is a no-brainer, but we also love pairing a console table with our Grand Palais mirror. Hung over a table, this mirror adds height, drawing your eye in.

Go Oversize

A light fixture can be a great way to turn a simple space into the dramatic focus of your room needs. We love our new Kent pendant because it demands attention. Consider using it in a breakfast nook like we’ve done here. In the corner of the kitchen, this pendant draws your eye toward it, just like we need.

Bold Color

Of course if you have a small space, using one bold color can bring in that drama and interest you’ll need. Maybe try a sofa in a bold fabric or some drapery panels that stop you in your tracks.

A Collection

Suzanne Kasler masterfully creates focal points from collections. She collects antique globes, and in her own home, she groups them together to create a spot in her living room with personality and interest. You can’t help but be drawn to this display.

Play with Shapes

An unusual shape on a furniture piece can be a good choice because it’s surprising. Consider one of our headboards with an unusual curve or a table with a super modern silhouette. Bring in something unusual, and let that one thing be the star in your room.

Silhouette Your Piece

In this dining room, we used a dark wall color to accentuate our whitewashed furniture pieces. You could use the same method with black furniture on a white wall, or a bold wall color with neutral pieces.

For more design inspiration, visit our Pinterest Boards, or find more gorgeous rooms in our Photo Gallery.

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