When it comes to creating a beautiful and functional home, few aspects are as vital as well-planned sightlines. A good sightline isn’t just about making things flow; it’s like a magic wand that makes your home feel bigger and cozier all at once. On the other hand, when sightlines go awry, your home’s natural flow is disrupted and rooms feel cluttered, cramped, and disjointed. You can steer clear of common sightline mistakes by applying a few pro strategies used by interior designers. Use this guide and you’ll create an environment at home that’s both aesthetically pleasing and functionally flawless. 

Avoid Obstructions

Good sightlines have a pleasing effect, opening up the space and making it feel more spacious and inviting. An easy way to achieve this is by removing obstructions. Make sure there are no major blockages, from bulky pieces of furniture or pendant lights positioned too low, that make it difficult to see through the space. By keeping these potential hindrances in check, you can maintain a clear and unobstructed visual pathway.

Draw to a Focal Point

Crafting an impeccable sightline can be as simple as guiding the eye towards a captivating focal point. Whether it’s a striking piece of artwork, an attention-worthy statement chair, or a picturesque outdoor view, strategically position this focal point in a central location. This arrangement not only establishes visual equilibrium but also elevates the overall harmony of the space.

Consider Entry Points

Sightlines hold a particular significance as one enters a room. If you have a door that opens directly into a space, take special care to arrange visible furniture, artwork, and lighting in a way that aligns with the entry point. This will ensure a seamless flow and a harmonious sense of balance throughout your home.

Careful Furniture Placement

The placement of your furniture is pivotal in shaping the quality of sightlines within your home. Consider the various sightlines from distinct seating areas within a room. Take the time to test out what you can and can’t see by taking a seat in each position. Adjust your furniture and decor accordingly to guarantee a stunning perspective from every seating angle.

Windows and Unobstructed Views

If you have the luxury of a great view, you’ll want to maintain the sightline to the windows. And perhaps even use the outdoor space as your focal point, allowing the outdoors to seamlessly blend with your interior space. Consider updating to larger windows or switching to glass doors to allow the surrounding scenery to make an even bolder statement.

Opening Up the Space

Are you open to renovating your home? If so, removing walls for a more open-concept look will offer larger and longer sightlines throughout the space. Adding a large window to an existing wall provides a stunning opportunity to create a dramatic sightline to an outdoor space. As always when tearing down walls, be sure to work with a licensed general contractor or structural engineer to determine whether or not it’s load-bearing. For a quicker fix, consider repositioning furniture or using mirrors to improve the flow and create the illusion of space. 

See more of Brian’s tips for creating sensational sightlines in this CityLine clip

Photography by Angus Fergusson