Have you ever walked into a showhome and just throught “WOW! This home is amazing.” And I’m not talking about the top-of-the-line upgrades of the finishes in the home, but the overall ambiance you get from being in that space. It’s the difference between walking through a completely empty home that is all decked out in granite and hardwood versus a truly fully staged showhome. Showhomes are set up to create a feeling and allow the buyers to see the full potential of the home. In other words, every showhome is staged to make you want to envision yourself living there.
Realistically though, a staged home is just that, staged. While exceptionally beautiful, some of the items used in the home may not be the most practical in a real living situation. That suede shower curtain? The all white sofa in a house full of children? Maybe not the best idea. Also, what about all the other things that a showhome will most likely never showcase? Like a used toothbrush on your bathroom counter, your bags of chips laying around the house, that pile of newspapers you swear you’ll recycle this week, or that brush with enough hair to create a ball the size of a cat (no? Maybe just me then…). That doesn’t mean however, that you can’t bring that “showhome” feel to your own home.
One of the easiest ways to bring your home to life is through the use of artwork. Like decorating a plain white cake, artwork will instantaneously add life and pizzazz to your otherwise blank canvas. The best part is that you aren’t limited to what you can put on your wall. Paintings, photographs or posters, it doesn’t matter, as long as the pieces speak to your personal tastes. Here are some additional little tidbits to keep in mind as well:
1. What is the overall feel/look you’re going for?
The overall look and feel of your home could depend on a lot of factors. It could be the style (are you going for ultra modern? Rustic? Classic? Circus?) or something as simple as overall colour scheme. What it really comes down to is the question “does your artwork flow with the rest of your home?”
2. Photography versus painting
Your choice of medium is really about what suits your personal preference, and having a mix of both in your home could look really lovely as well. However, if you’re planning on doing a grouping of art or gallery style, sticking to one type will create a more unified and less sporadic look.
3. Stay open minded
If you’re anything like me, going shopping for something very specific is next to impossible. I swear anytime I have an image of the perfect shoe or shirt or piece of jewelry in my head to complete my outfit, I can’t find it anywhere. Shopping for a specific art piece goes very much the same way. Aside from the theme/colour and size that you need, keep an open mind on what you could put into your home. That way you’ll avoid a) feeling disappointed and b) the risk of passing on something that is potentially really awesome
4. To frame or not to frame?
Try planning on where you want your art work to go, put them up without a frame first and see if you like the effect. Sometimes a really great piece can stand beautifully on its own. Keep in mind that framing can be quite expensive and will sometimes take away from the art rather than enhance it. If you do decide that framing is the best choice, you’ll now have a better idea of the type and scale of frame that would work best for you. And don’t be afraid to ask an expert-the frame shop is not cheap so the least they can do is offer some advice.
Of course, art isn’t the only way to achieve a “showhome,” look. Thoughtful accessories such as throw pillows, candles, matching duvet covers, elegant drapes and all the other little touches and trinkets make a huge difference in your home. Obviously you’ll never be able to avoid the everyday clutter and necessary items in your home (I mean really, where would it all go?), but choosing furniture pieces with storage can really help keep it out of sight. And with the clutter out of the way, the mind will feel less cluttered too! So, now you have your weekend set out for you- achieving a show stopping space that’ll have all your friends talking is now one step closer!
