Home Stagin Tips part 2

This is the diningroom AFTER we moved the formal table into the real diningroom, took the contemporary one out, took off the white lace table cloth, and added a nice live plant. Because the rustic fireplace and mantel set the tone, along with her custom drapes, this diningroom set really compliments the room.
If u noticed the fireplace/hearth before, it was heavy on the decor which distracted from its natural charm. We're still going to add a color-coordinated candlescape to the left side of the mantel, but you get the idea. Oh, the TV right there is still in negotiations. ahhh, there's the sofa...we're making the former dining room back into a livingroom. Not totally finished, but it's getting there.
Now the color on the walls is like a blackberry/maroon/wine color. That is in negotiations too. I love the lime green matelasse bedcover, but the walls need to be toned down for this master bedroom to feel "relaxed, romantic, and soothing", don't you think? Oh, and a taller lamp is in order. Also, notice how we used to the pillows to create the image of a bigger headboard? Just prop those big fluffy pillows up!
Staging a home to sell is NOT the same as designing it to live in--our homes should reflect our personalities, our priorities, and lifestyle. And if I may be so rude, they should also reflect "a place" as in the place we live. I cringe when I walk thru Target and see "French-flavored" decor items! Why??? Do you supposed the French have pics of Americana on their walls?
We have too many beautiful things All-American right here to enjoy. Our homes are our Havens...make it your own.
Having an idea of the kind of "feel" you want from the colors, textures, uses of light help create the mood you want to surround yourself and welcome others into.
Be careful of trendy colors and tones...any of the neons are short-lived trends--so if you want to be "in the moment"--look for bargain priced accessories--for heaven's sake don't paint your kids walls a neon color. And if you do, be prepared to RE-PAINT when it comes time to sell. Neutral tones are the order of the day.
When it comes to spending your hard-earned money on home decor, choose CLASSIC lines, colors, and textures. You can always count on some things to always be in style. If you noticed, there are ALOT of different colors in this home. Too many colors can actually make your home feel/look smaller, or chopped-up--think about when you tour model homes. Most of their color comes from window treatments, fabric on bedding, sofas, and accessories. And the variety of wall colors usually compliment one another. SO be careful when choosing paint colors.
And lastly, when you decide to sell your home, have it professionally staged first!!! You'll be so glad you did!!