Embrace Distinct Charm
As a stager that truly appreciates historic architecture, it was exhilarating to work in this beautiful Shaker Heights home. The beautiful brick exterior and well manicured lawn made this home sparkle like a new penny.
As I walked in, I was struck by the fantastic slate work, open and bright living room and so much more. From my first step in the door, my approach was different. This home did not need filled with a great deal of staging inventory. It needed a bit of reorganization to allow the distinct charm and character to show through.
Paring down, brightening up and highlighting focal points were critical steps in making this home sing to potential buyers. Soaring ceilings, spiral staircases and hand forged iron work will do the rest!
5 Tips for Staging a Historic Home
By: Kristi Bidinger, Staging Specialist
1. Maintenance!
Make sure that all of the mechanics are in good working order. Roofing, plumbing, windows, and plaster work will always be looked at even more carefully in older homes. Make sure they are free of defects that will distract buyers and lower offers.
2. Highlight Distinct Features
Does the home have large fireplaces or other unique elements? Use these features as focal points consistently throughout the home. Pay close attention to the objects placed around these features. They should draw the eye in, but not interrupt traffic flow within the space.
3. Remove Out of Character Furniture
To this point, a laminate 1990's desk in a beautiful mahogany paneled library will always look out of place and detract from the space. Opt for pieces that are in keeping with the time frame of the house, or for newer,
higher quality pieces that can be staged with some vintage keepsakes.
4. Provide Function to Quirky Spaces
Older homes typically have a few spaces that offer a staging challenge. By defining a small breakfast nook in this manner, potential buyers see how they could use the space, rather than an empty catch all. Be sure to keep them light and airy.
5. Don't Over Stage
It is easy to get in the mindset to keep adding things to a space. With homes that have vintage charm, too much added stuff can actually detract from the home. Often with these vintage charmers, less is more.
