When it comes to creating a beautiful and functional home, one of the most important aspects to consider is sightlines. A sightline refers to everything that can be seen from a certain point in a room. A good sightline will not only improve the flow of your space, but it can also make your home feel larger and more cohesive. Sightlines can be used to create a dramatic narrative by drawing the eye to your favourite pieces of furniture and decor. Here are some tips to help you create better sightlines in your home.

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.

Draw to a Focal Point

One of the easiest ways to create a good sightline in your home? Draw the eye to an attractive focal point. This could be a piece of art you’d like to showcase, a statement chair that deserves attention, or even a view outside. By positioning this focal point in a central location, you can create a sense of balance and harmony in the space.

Consider Entry Points

Sightlines are especially important when approaching a room. If you have a door that opens directly into a room, be sure to position any visible furniture, artwork, or lighting in a way that centres it within the entry point. This will create a better flow and balance in your home.  

Be Conscious of Furniture Placement

The way you position your furniture can have a big impact on the sightlines in your home. Consider the various sightlines from different seating areas in the room. Test out what you can and can’t see by taking a seat in each position. Adjust the furniture and decor accordingly to make sure each seating area offers a stunning perspective.

Windows and Sightlines

If you have the luxury of a great view, you’ll definitely want to maintain the sightline to the windows. And perhaps even use the outdoor space as your focal point. 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