Focal points are an interior design and decorating principle that I’ve been thinking about a lot lately.
You hear about focal points all the time when you’re learning about interior design. In most cases, they refer to floor-to-ceiling windows with an ocean view or a massive stone fireplace.
It’s easy to see why you would make something like that a focal point—it’s gorgeous and dominates your attention.
If you can see the Mediterranean from your living room, of course you’re going to make that window your focal point. But what do you do if you live in a basic apartment with a view of a parking lot? Can you still create a stunning focal point?
It’s harder to do when you don’t have much to work with from an architectural standpoint, but if you don’t have an obvious focal point, you can absolutely create one.
Here are some of the best ideas I’ve found for creating a stunning focal point in a bland space:
Use Your Windows, Even If Your View Sucks
Windows are an obvious focal point, and all the main rooms in your house probably have at least one. If you have windows with a decent view, hell yeah—that’s your focal point.
But even if your view flat-out sucks, you can still make your windows your focal point. Windows bring in natural light—a sought-after feature for any decorator. Good light makes things look better! So make your windows your focal point, but think about them as highlighting the light the let in instead of the view.
Look for Symmetry
When you’re choosing a focal point, symmetry is your best friend. Symmetry is naturally pleasing to the eye and any symmetrical architectural features will make a great focal point. Think matching windows, symmetrical frame molding, or a pair of sconces. If you live in a characterless apartment that’s all plain white drywall like I do, you can create your own symmetry—two big, matching mirrors flanking your couch would make a killer focal point for your living room.
Use Color
Paint and wallpaper are two of the easiest ways to manufacture a focal point. They make one wall look different from the rest, automatically turning it into a focal point. You can use an unexpected paint color, or go the trendier route with peel-and-stick wallpaper. I’ve been loving peel-and-stick wallpaper lately. It adds so much character, is relatively affordable, and is easy to install. Win-win-win. If you own your home, you can always install real wallpaper for a more permanent result.
Add Texture
This one only really works if you own your home or if your landlord doesn’t mind you making some changes. But adding texture is a great way to turn a basic wall into a focal point. It’s the same concept as a colored accent wall but instead of paint, use something like shiplap or wood paneling. A little more labor-intensive and permanent than some of the other options, but a solid option for homeowners.
Never miss a Design Baby tip! New posts every week.
