When you’re getting ready to sell your home, staging can make all the difference. Home staging offers several benefits to buyers and can even increase the dollar value by 1 to 5 percent compared to non-staged homes.

Besides furnishing the common areas of the property, the right artwork and décor can transform a space and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

Spanish style duplexes in new housing community

In this article, we provide four tips for choosing the right artwork and décor for your staged home to achieve a polished appearance that will help your property stand out against the competition.

4 Tips for Choosing Artwork & Décor When Staging Your Home

  1. Match Furniture and Architecture
  2. Create Focal Points
  3. Fill Empty Space
  4. Set the Tone of the Room

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1. Match Furniture and Architecture

Perhaps the most fundamental piece of advice for decorating a home for staging is to match artwork and home accessories to staged furniture and existing architecture.

Round stools and soft textures complement curved arches of home's main entrance

Round stools and soft textures complement curved arches of home’s main entrance and light wood flooring

This technique creates a cohesive look that feels harmonious and well-thought-out and has the potential to highlight the unique features of the home.

Soft modern sofa chair complements white modern fireplace feature

Soft modern sofa chair complements white modern fireplace feature

For example, if you have a vintage fireplace, placing an antique clock or mirror above it can draw attention to this feature.

Decorative gold mirror above large fireplace in formal living room

Stylish gold mirror draws visitors to explore the space beyond the sofa

Home stagers can’t go wrong by coordinating colors and interior design styles using furniture and décor.

Your staging should also emphasize key architectural features such as spaces with ample natural light.

Large windows complement modern bright kitchen with natural lighting

Large windows complement modern bright kitchen with natural lighting

Also, don’t forget to stage special areas on the outside of your home that can help convey an attractive lifestyle with very few items.

Rocking chair with side table and decorative plant on a bedroom balcony with views

Rocking chair with side table and decorative plant on a bedroom balcony with views


 

2. Create Focal Points

Creating focal points in each room can make a huge difference in how buyers perceive your space.

Art piece frames workspace area with a small desk in a small bedroom

Large artwork and small desk help frame a workspace area in a small bedroom

A focal point draws the eye, gives the room a sense of purpose, and can make a room feel more inviting.

Large abstract artwork in living room of new home model

Large abstract artwork completes the focus of a home model’s main living area

Place stylish or grand pieces of décor where you want a potential buyer’s eyes to go. Be sure to remain selective when creating focal points so that those touring don’t feel visually overwhelmed.

Coffee table with Scrabble board underscores that this gathering room is for social interaction

Coffee table with stylish Scrabble board helps emphasize that the surrounding gathering space is for social interaction


 

3. Fill Empty Space

Filling empty spaces with the right décor and artwork can make the home feel more lived-in and comfortable.

Artwork and bench give large entrance warmth and functionality by large stairwell

Artwork and large bench provide a large entrance warmth and functionality

In large areas of blank walls, consider hanging a series of framed prints or a large piece of art to complete the space.

Attached ADU in luxury model home with high ceilings, artwork resting on top of cabinetry

Resting artwork accentuates high ceilings of attached ADU in luxury home model

When staging a kitchen for sale, fill countertops or islands with place settings, stylish kitchen utensils, or decorative vases to infuse the room with character.

Staged white luxury kitchen with large island

Staged gourmet kitchen with large island

The key is to choose pieces that add interest without overpowering the room.

Two large house plants connect two adjoining dining tables with nearby luxury kitchen

Two house plants connect adjoining dining tables with a nearby kitchen, signaling this space is all about entertaining


 

4. Set the Tone of the Room

The artwork and décor you choose can set the tone for each room.

Clothing hooks in western-themed nursery room

Convenient clothing hooks in western-themed nursery room

Prominent horse print on side table in large hallway of luxury home model

Prominent horse print reminds visitors that they are in horse country

For example, serene landscapes or abstract art in soft colors can create a calming atmosphere in the bedroom.

Bear print in small children's bedroom

Bear artwork compliments warm tone and textures of a small bedroom designed for a young child

In contrast, vibrant, energetic artwork can make a living room feel lively and welcoming.

Abstract artwork meshes with large houseplant, area rug and retro desk to create an interesting multifunctional space

Abstract artwork meshes with large houseplant, area rug and retro desk to create an interesting multifunctional space

Spa-like home goods in the bathroom can create a sense of relaxation and luxury, transforming it into a retreat and enhancing your home’s overall appeal.

Luxury spa primary bathroom in model home

Luxury spa primary bathroom in model home

Setting a consistent tone is crucial when listing your vacation home for sale. Depending on its setting, artwork and décor can emphasize the luxurious appeal of a wonderful vacation, whether it’s in the mountains or on the beach.

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Parting Words of Advice

Choosing the right artwork and décor when staging your home can significantly impact how potential buyers perceive your space. By following these simple guidelines, you can make your home more appealing and easier to sell.

Artwork, with area rug and window treatments help frame a small, but comfortable seating area

Artwork, with area rug and window treatments help frame a small, but comfortable seating area in a new home model

Also keep in mind these additional tips when staging your home:

  • Consider leveraging virtual staging and virtual renovations to expand the perceived range of your home, including décor styles and functionality
  • Be sure to declutter your home, starting with the basement and garage
  • Use plants and pots to make tables, desks and corners interesting and complementary
  • Work with your real estate agent to strengthen your onlisting further with some or all of the following items:
    • Comprehensive gallery of professional photos
    • Thoughtfully written property description with key prospectives in mind (e.g. young families)
    • Floorplans
    • Recorded video tour of your home
    • Aerial views of your property and neighborhood with drone photos and/or videos
    • Interactive 3D model of your home
    • Interactive one-on-one online tours by appointment

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