Nov 19 2009
Picking a Focal Point in a Room
Some rooms naturally have a focal point, whereas other rooms might require you to add something to create that focal point. But before you add anything to the room, be sure to take the time to look closely at that room to see what it already has to offer. For instance, you might already have something like a fireplace that is a natural focal point that just needs to be played up when decorating.
A large piece you already have in the room might make a great focal point, such as a wood bookcase, an entertainment center, wooden dressers, or even a couch. You may only have to rearrange some furniture to create a focal point if you already have something in the room you can use. Or you might have to start from scratch in choosing the proper focal point for a room.
The Fireplace as a Focal Point
A fireplace provides a great natural focal point for any room. If you have a fireplace in the room, then there are plenty of ways you can draw attention to it.
For an instant focal point, arrange the furniture around the fireplace. But there are also other things you can do. You might draw attention to that area by painting the wall the fireplace is on a different color than the rest of the room. You could also change the style of the fireplace or add a new mantle to it in order to draw more attention there. Then top the mantle with eye-catching décor items, or hang a large piece of art over it.
The Couch as a Focal Point
If you have a favorite couch that you just love, with a little rearranging you can make it the focal point of the room. Just be sure the couch is in great condition. If it’s necessary, you might want to add a slipcover to it.
You can add colorful or patterned pillows or throws to the couch to draw attention there. Arrange the rest of the furniture in the room so that it is facing the couch. A large couch can be placed in the middle of the longest wall in the room. Side tables can be added to the couch as well.
The Armoire or Entertainment Center as a Focal Point
If you want to highlight an entertainment center or armoire in a family or media room, you need to make sure you concentrate on the quality of the product. After all, you don’t want an entertainment center that’s cheap-looking to be the main focus of the room. Thus, be sure to invest in an attractive piece of furniture that’s also of decent quality.
It’s not a bad idea to also look for a furnishing with doors that will hide any electronics. For some additional style, add flower arrangements, candles, and frames to the furnishing.
You can come up with many other ways to create a focal point in a room. There will be different pieces in different rooms that you might want to show off. In a bedroom, a popular focal point is the bed, for instance. Remember to use your creativity in showing off and highlighting your focal point as best you can.