Before the budding interior designer picks up a brush and starts slapping magnolia on every wall of the house, it should be noted that creating the perfect home is hard work. Furthermore, whilst creative vision is absolutely fundamental to the success of redecorating, the process actually involves a significant amount of science or technical knowledge.

Indeed, the combination of creative flair and design wisdom is key to producing a home that does not merely look good but which makes a bold and stunning visual statement. In short, this internal ‘wow factor’ is best achieved through precise and deliberate focal points.

In its most simple form, a focal point can be achieved by employing a careful contrast of colours. Because colours behave differently in relation to other colours, it is essential to understand how certain colours react to certain other colours and in certain shapes. For instance, a plain white background will give the appearance of a fresh and open room, which is ideal for those who enjoy the uncluttered look – although is perhaps a touch boring. However, a focal point can be created in such a room by painting a large vivid black or red square in the centre of one of the walls, which would appear more brilliant against the plain white background and elevate the room from the despairing depths of design doldrums.

Other ways to create a focal point include repositioning furniture strategically or installing a large natural/faux fireplace. Moreover, there is arguably no focal point more useful than a large LCD television screen that is mounted centrally on one of the narrowest walls, which truly comes into its own when guests arrive to watch the big game!

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