Designer Tips

What is your Focal Point?

There is probably no question that you have heard the term focal point used time and time again. Quite frankly, it’s one of the most widely used design principles. The question is, do you know why or how a focal point is used?

A room’s focal point can be one of two things. It can be dramatic and make a very strong statement as seen in example A (the Thomasville Hemmingway collection). Here, an oversized chandelier and centerpiece anchor the room and draw the eye to the center. Most importantly, the exaggerated size is in proportion to the secondary points of interest in the room - the hutch and fireplace.

A focal point can also be subtle and used to quietly draw the eye to a point of interest unbeknownst to the onlooker. See example B. In this photo, the use of fabric draped on the back wall superiorly sets the stage for the four-post bed creating a warm and welcoming feeling.

Additionally, a focal point may:

Be applied to draw attention away from an architectural flaw or emphasize the architectural characteristics of a room.
I.e. Through the creative use of paint or moldings
Encourage guests to approach something in the room.
I.e. To sit in a designated seating arrangement, view a piece of artwork, gaze out a picture window, or take in a finely detailed accent piece
Reinforce a room’s theme or style.
I.e. By use of hand picked or specially designed features such as an antique from another continent or a trickling water fountain

Other Designer Tips you may be interested in: