Creating a balanced focal point is a bit tricky. The large, tiled area in this picture is what makes this one work. The tones of the tiles are earthy and muted but the scale of the application makes it grand without being ostentatious. Bright red tiles, for example, would be too over-the-top for this space. The subtle pattern in the tile adds dimension but is asymmetrical, which makes it work. If you had tiles with a floral pattern, for instance, it might be a little too busy. You need some visual restraint to get it right. As a side note, the wavy lighting fixture above the tiles softens the square lines of the tile and adds visual flow. The lighting also dots the fireplace fa ßade with soft light. Simple window blinds do not deter from the focal point but provide much needed privacy. Finally, having the actual firebox in the centre of the tiles rather than closer to the floor is another twist that makes this focal wall beautiful and unique.
Don't be shy
A focal wall that is too understated is not a focus at all. Hanging a few unassuming paintings over the sofa won't cut it. Either purchase an oversize, colourful piece or create a large-scale display using several smaller pieces. Painting the focal wall in a stronger colour is another way to bring it up a notch. As you can see in our photo, the focal wall is painted in a deeper earth tone than the other walls in the space, which makes the focus a little stronger, even if in a subtle way.
Use furniture
to create focus
The furniture placement in our photo further enhances the focal point in the room. By flanking this stunning fireplace with comfortable seating, it beckons you to have a seat and relax. Placing the coffee table on an angle is a nice touch that creates yet more visual appeal. Keeping the area in front of the fireplace surround free from bric-a-brac lets the focus stay on the focal point. If you can, try to use your furniture placement to further enhance your focal point. If you're trying to create a dramatic bedroom focal point, a stunning headboard, for example, is a good start. Place the bed on an angle instead of against a wall or place it between two windows to create visual symmetry.
Let there be light
Lighting your focal point will further enhance the visual experience. Consider using spot lighting to highlight artwork and softer lighting, like wall sconces, to create ambient lighting for the general area. Up-lights are very dramatic and can be placed behind floor plants or furniture to provide another lighting dimension. Visit your lighting retailer for ideas and assistance. There are tons of awesome new products out there in the lighting field. Some lighting fixtures and/or lamps can be focal points on their own simply by their unique design.
Room by room
In the bedroom, as mentioned above, use a decorative headboard as a starting point for your focal wall. Paint a stronger colour behind the bed for emphasis, then add large, striking artwork to bring the look to fruition. Use architectural details in the room, like a pair of windows or angled ceilings, to further enhance your focal point when possible.
In the family room, go large and vivid. Use architectural elements, like a fireplace, as a starting point. Beef it up with a new, grander fa ßade and mantel or use strong paint colours to make a boring fireplace a work of art. Flank it with great furniture, like matching wing chairs, which brings the focus to where it should be. If you don't have a fireplace, then use colour and artwork to create drama on a focal wall. Window treatments on a focal wall should be grand and tall. Bring them close to the ceiling to create visual height and use texture and pattern to further enhance the overall effect.
In the kitchen, the cupboard wall may be the focal point simply because they consume so much visual space. Ensure that the cupboards are stained or painted in a great, fresh colour and update the hardware. Have a new backsplash installed using today's lovely subway tiles or glass tiles to create a new look. If you choose to use a different wall as a focus in the kitchen, then once again use pattern (wallpaper, perhaps) and colour to make a statement.
Even in the bathroom, a rich wall colour behind the soaker tub will beef things up a little. If you ever go to a spa, take notice of the rich, soothing colours they use in their establishment. Rich brown, burgundy and navy are just a few choice options in wall colour that can add drama to the bathroom.
If your space seems boring or lacklustre, you probably need a stronger focal point. Look around your home and see what you can use to create a little drama in your decor.
coliver@3web.net
