If you’ve read a few home design articles, you’ll be familiar with the concept of focal points. Every room needs that one element that draws the eye and leads it to the rest of the room. More often than not, the focal point is also what sets the room’s décor theme, or ties the rest of the elements together to give it that finished look.
In the kitchen, the need for a focal point has been more pronounced in recent years. Many design ideas for kitchens are built around a single element, which eventually becomes the focal point. Most kitchens have a natural focal point to begin with, such as a cozy corner, a bright color scheme, or stylish furniture.
But what if you’re starting from scratch and have to build a focal point on your own? Try browsing through design magazines and see which design elements first catch your eye. Chances are these could make a viable focal point for your own kitchen, simply because they appeal to you personally. Below are some ideas for kitchen focal points, and how you can make them work for your space.
A gathering area
Kitchens are increasingly turning from purely functional rooms to all-around spaces where people come together to sit, talk and relax. If this sounds like you, why not set up a little gathering space and create a focal point at the same time? It can be as simple as setting up small kitchen tables in a corner, or something elaborate like an island counter with bar stools and a wine rack. On busy days, it can also double as an extra work surface.
Obviously, this would work best for large kitchens where the workspace takes up half or less of the room. By separating the cooking area from the rest, you also control foot traffic and therefore work more efficiently. Look around for simple, inexpensive ways to draw attention to the gathering space. For example, instead of using room dividers, define each space by using a different wall color, or installing a small overhead light over the table. Read More →