Regardless of the type of room you're decorating, it should be centered around an eye-catching focal point. Why? Because whether we realize it or not, our eyes immediately begin looking for something to focus on when we walk into any new space. By definition, a focal point is ''¹..."a central point of attention or interest', thus whether it's a fireplace, a sculpture, or a large painting, a focal point will help to anchor the room and give it purpose. Here are several focal point ideas that you can use to decorate the living room, bedroom or kitchen.
Living room focal point ideas
The living room is, by far, the easiest room in the house to find a focal point in. For one, there's more wall space and, more importantly, we tend to collect things in this room as we spend a majority of our time here. Try these focal point ideas for the living room.
Fireplace - If you've got a fireplace, use it to your advantage! A fireplace is the perfect focal point in the living room. Use these fireplace decorating ideas to spruce up the mantel, hearth, and beyond.
Mirror(s) - A large mirror, or a series of small ones, is a fabulous way to maximize natural light and enlarge a small space. Creating a focal point with mirrors is inexpensive and simple too!
A beautiful view - If your living room offers a spectacular view, it may be the only focal point you need. Enhance it by arranging the furniture so that it faces the windows, and be sure to either pull back the curtains or replace them with a more flattering set.
Built-ins - Built-in bookcases or entertainment centers are a fabulous focal point, providing they aren't cluttered or blocked by furniture. Clear them of any excess and consider painting, or wallpapering, the back panels with a coordinating paint color or pattern.
Photo collage - A tasteful display of personal photos adds an intimate touch to any space. Create a photo collage over the sofa, above the television, or arrange them on a wall by themselves. Use this 'Complete Guide to Picture Hanging' to learn how to properly hang and group framed photos.
Kitchen focal point ideas
Most of us have limited space in the kitchen, so it's a bit more difficult to find a focal point in this room of the house. Here are a few focal point ideas that may help.
Backsplash - A backsplash doesn't have to be made of imported Italian tiles. There are many other affordable ways to dress up this area of the kitchen. Use these 'Easy Ideas for a Kitchen Backsplash' for inspiration.
Over-cabinet space - Most kitchen cabinetry provides a section of empty space above them. This area can be enhanced with galley rail, crown molding, or a collection of items that will serve as a focal point. Use this space to display greenery, collectible tins, pottery, and so on.
China cabinet - Use your China cabinet as a focal point in the kitchen. Make it ''¹..."pop' by wallpapering the back panel with a print that coordinates with your China pattern, or paint it a dark color to add depth. Display fabric napkins and placemats beneath the dishes for an added splash of color.
Kitchen window - If you are so limited by space that you cannot find a focal point by any other means, use your kitchen window! Clean the glass so that it sparkles and top it with a brand new window treatment. Don't forget to repaint the trim work around it with a fresh coat of paint.
Kitchen table - A beautifully decorated table makes an impressive statement, and it doesn't need to be a special occasion or holiday to make it work. Create a focal point with a pretty tablecloth, coordinating cloth napkins, fresh flowers, and matching plates and bowls.
Bedroom focal point ideas
Finding a focal point in the bedroom can be as easy as adding a new set of bedding to the room. A bed that is covered with a bounty of pattern and texture is absolutely stunning, after all. Here are a few additional focal point ideas for the bedroom.
Headboard - Add a unique headboard to the room to create a focal point that's sure to please. Don't have a headboard? Create one with any of these romantic headboard design ideas.
Canopy - A bed canopy is very romantic and makes the perfect focal point for the bedroom. Canopies can be used to cover a small portion of the bed or the entire thing, depending on your personal taste. They can be soft and silky or bold and bright to match your existing decor.
Room divider - A room divider can be arranged so that it gives the feeling of two separate areas. Separate a dressing area from the rest of the room, or use it to simply conceal a corner filled with clutter. When positioned properly, it can also be used to create a focal point that will look like a natural part of the bedroom.
More from Jennifer Wagner:
Crafty Ways to Decorate the Kitchen
Decorative Ways to Soundproof a Room
A Simple Guide to Decorating with Mirrors
SOURCE:
Personal knowledge and experience
