A room, or even an entire building, benefits a great deal from having a key element that creates a focal point. This gives somewhere to direct one's attention, and helps to create a sense of purpose for a space.

To create one or more focal points, it is important to reconcile conflicting demands on people's attention. Everything cannot be a focal point. Instead, each element must be given appropriate importance. This is why it is often effective to have large surfaces with neutral color and texture, with brighter colored focal points.