How to make more look like less By Design: Turn the wall at the end of a long hallway into a focal point, with big, interesting objects in asymmetrical arrangement.

A The entire end wall needs to be turned into a focal point. But that can't be achieved by the addition of any single object, unless it's truly colossal. A symmetrical composition also won't solve your problem, since it too would tend to elongate the hallway.

In this photograph a situation similar to your own was addressed by introducing an altar-type console table in a color contrasting with that of the wall. Note that the objects placed on and under the table are not arranged in a symmetrical fashion.

An exotic, colorful image, such as this copy of a Gauguin, could be hung centrally on the wall to generate visual interest. It will divert attention from the hallway itself, thus making the space seem less like a closed-end tunnel.

The designer of this tableau realized that such a strong statement above a large table would result in a void in the space beneath the table top. That's why a few sizable jugs and planters were placed in that open area. The key requirement is that these objects themselves must not be legged.

Color choice will clearly be important. In this instance, Gauguin's palette formed the range of selections. Plum was used on the wall, while the painting's beige was picked up via the sandy color of the floor. The console echoes the antique white in the picture.

Some of the painting's other colors, particularly pink and red, appear in the accessories.

A composition along these lines could prove to be a smart solution to your problem. Just remember that the focal point will probably need to be multifaceted in order to produce the desired effect.

Pub Date: 4/14/96