IN SHARP FOCUS

A stunning focal point will allow you to create a kitchen that draws attention to itself for all the right reasons. We inspect some stylish options....

- AMELIA THORPE

STATEMENT SUSPENDED SHELF

Draw the eye upwards and enhance the spacious feel of a high-ceilinged kitchen with a shelf that is suspended above the island. 'A decorative hanging shelf, with hidden spotlights in the base, visually anchors an island in the space and gives it the gravitas it deserves,' explains Annie Ebenston, lead designer, Blakes London. It also makes a contemporary, unusual focal point-offering a myriad of ways of displaying curated decorative objects to add extra personality and individuality to the room.' Annie suggests regularly changing the objects on display, in tune with the seasons or festivities, as a fun and cost-effective way to evolve the feel of the room.

SHOWSTOPPER SPLASHBACK

As well as serving a functional purpose in protecting the wall, a tiled kitchen splashback can make a stunning focal point, with almost limitless design possibilities - from highly decorative designs to simple combinations. A plain herringbone or square tile in a favourite colour can look really effective, allowing the eye to appreciate the natural nuances of a handmade tile,' suggests Ruth Webber, creative director at Bert & May. You can keep the overall feel quite uniform and regular, allowing the colours to do the talking, or create your own bespoke tessellations, perhaps with a softer palette, all depending on your personal style and the scale of your splashback area.'

ORNATE OVERMANTEL