Let's be honest, not every part of your home is photo-ready. Whether you're living in your space or getting ready to list it for sale, those functional-but-not-so-pretty elements like thermostats, electrical panels, and even garbage bins can be real eyesores.
Strategic staging can, however, make these necessary eyesores vanish, creating a more polished and visually appealing space. Here's how to work your magic:
Camouflage with Art and Decor
Transforming functional eyesores into stylish features is an art in itself. By strategically incorporating décor and artwork, you can camouflage those necessary but less-than-attractive elements, creating a visually harmonious space that delights the eye.
Electrical Panels and Thermostats
Your electrical panel is a workhorse, but it doesn't need to be a showpiece. Consider these clever concealment tactics if yours happens to be 'on display'.
Hinged Artwork: A large piece of art or a decorative wall hanging mounted on hinges offers both functionality and style. Simply swing it open when you need access to the panel, then close it to resume its role as a focal point.
Custom Cabinets: For a built-in look, consult a carpenter or DIY a shallow cabinet to cover the panel. Add decorative moulding to match your home's aesthetic.
Framed Fabric: Stretch a beautiful piece of fabric (think tapestry or patterned textile) over a frame and hang it over the panel. Choose a fabric that complements your existing décor for a cohesive look.
Routers and Cords
It seems like there are more wires and cords trailing through our homes than ever before. While thee are very useful for things like ensuring great Internet access for the whole family, creating a functional home office and/or a great family entertainment space, tangled wires are the bane of any aesthetically pleasing space. But they don't have to be!
Stylish Cord Organizers: Invest in cable management solutions like cord covers, clips, and sleeves to keep cords out of sight and create a clean, streamlined look.
Decorative Baskets: Place a woven basket or stylish box on a shelf to discreetly hide a router or modem. Make sure it's well-ventilated to prevent overheating.
Cable Management Boxes: These dedicated boxes not only hide multiple cords but also act as a charging station for your devices.
Garbage and Recycling Bins
These are necessary, but they don't need to dominate your space.
Built-In Storage: In the kitchen, or a mudroom or pantry, consider incorporating a freestanding cabinet with pull-out bins for garbage and recycling. This keeps them out of sight and adds a functional element to the space.
Decorative Screens: In smaller areas like kitchens, a decorative screen or folding panel can shield garbage bins from view while still allowing easy access.
Outdoor Enclosures: For outdoor waste disposal, invest in a stylish enclosure that complements your home's exterior. Options range from simple wood boxes to custom-built metal or vinyl structures.
Furniture: Your Home Staging Secret Weapon
Furniture isn't just for sitting on; it's a versatile tool for transforming the look and feel of your space, especially when it comes to cleverly concealing those eyesores. Here are a few strategies to consider:
Strategic Placement
Blocking & Redirecting: Think of furniture as a visual barrier. A strategically placed sofa can hide a bulky radiator, or a tall bookcase can obscure an awkwardly placed electrical panel. Arrange furniture to draw the eye towards focal points and away from less attractive elements.
Corner Solutions: Don't let corners become catch-alls for clutter. Use a corner cabinet to create stylish storage or place a comfy armchair to create a cozy reading nook, distracting from an unsightly corner.
Creating Zones: In open concept homes, use furniture to define different areas. A console table behind a sofa can create a subtle divider that hides a messy play area, or a dining table can establish a separate eating zone, minimizing the visual impact of a nearby laundry area.
Storage Solutions
Stylish Cabinets & Credenzas: Invest in pieces that offer both storage and style. A cabinet with doors or mesh panels can house electronics, cords, or unsightly items while maintaining a clean aesthetic. Credenzas or sideboards with closed storage can discreetly tuck away items like gaming consoles or extra throws.
Multi-Functional Benches & Ottomans: Look for pieces that double as storage. A bench with a hinged top or an ottoman with a removable lid can conceal blankets, pillows, or other items while providing additional seating.
Choosing the Right Pieces
Scale & Proportion: Select furniture that fits the size of the room. Oversized pieces can make a space feel cramped, while too-small furniture can feel lost.
Style & Cohesion: Choose pieces that complement your existing décor. A modern home might benefit from sleek, minimalist furniture, while a traditional space might call for pieces with classic lines.
Light & Airy: Avoid heavy, bulky furniture that can visually weigh down a room. Opt for pieces with legs that allow light to pass through, creating a sense of airiness and space.
Remember, the goal is to enhance your home's functionality and appeal, not simply hide things away. By strategically using furniture, you can create a welcoming and visually pleasing space that buyers will love, without sacrificing storage or practicality.
Fabric and Textile Tricks
Curtain Call: Long, flowing curtains aren't just for windows. They can be used to create a soft partition that hides unsightly areas, like an exposed water heater or a messy utility corner.
Tablecloths & Throws: Don't forget about your surfaces! A stylish tablecloth can disguise a less-than-perfect table, while a strategically placed throw can hide cords or imperfections on a sofa.
Utilizing Wall Space: Vertical Space is Underrated!
Shelving Solutions: Floating shelves are a popular way to add storage and style. Use them to create an eye-catching display that distracts from a less desirable wall feature or an awkward corner.
Gallery Walls: A collection of framed artwork or photos can create a captivating focal point, drawing attention away from an area you'd rather downplay.
Mirror, Mirror: Large mirrors reflect light and can make a room feel more spacious. If you have an unsightly view out a window, a strategically placed mirror can deflect attention and create a sense of depth.
Outdoor Oases: The Great Outdoors Can Help!
Staging outdoor spaces is as important as staging indoor spaces if they are a large part of your home, and these tips and tricks should make disguising any less than attractive elements easier:
Privacy Screens & Fencing: Tall fences or decorative privacy screens can create a sense of seclusion and hide unsightly elements like air conditioning units or utility boxes.
Lush Landscaping: Strategically planted shrubs or tall ornamental grasses can camouflage a dull foundation or block views of less attractive areas of your property.
Clever Storage Solutions: Invest in outdoor storage benches or deck boxes to keep hoses, gardening tools, and other essentials out of sight.
Your Waterloo Region Real Estate Partners: Beyond Staging
Planning to sell your Waterloo Region home? While these staging tips are a great starting point, the real estate market is constantly evolving. Partnering with a knowledgeable team is your best bet for success.
Team Pinto offers more than just staging advice. We have an in-depth understanding of what buyers are looking for in the Waterloo Region, how to effectively price and then market your home, and how to negotiate to get you the best possible deal.
From showcasing your home's unique features to guiding you through the entire selling process, we're committed to making your real estate journey as smooth and successful as possible. Team Pinto is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your goals and let's transform your real estate dreams into reality!