naked notes

Everyone knows it’s a buyer’s market, but in this economy what makes the difference between a sure thing and a rough sell? In NYC and Brooklyn it’s all about the concept of space rather than the actual square footage, but unless one has an eye for design it can be practically impossible to unload space as a blank slate. Apartment seekers need an idea of style, and accenting your interior to get the most of your asking price from the marketplace is key. However, the trick to a successful staging for the unleashing of unwanted space is not to inundate but keep things as simple, neat and clean as possible.

You want to glorify your wall so potential buyers get an idea of ceiling height and width. We suggest hanging only one large (or size appropriate piece) of art or textile in your space to present a positive example of wall size. Every living area should have an impressive sofa, coffee table and a good rug flanked by one or two chairs. Depending on the size of the space you are trying to sell, starting from this guidepost and removing items accordingly works wonders. Choosing items that glorify the light is also highly recommended. Notice how the sun from the window shines on the leather and wood end tables?

If you have two bedrooms, you must give the idea of function and it is also not unreasonable to be slightly subtle in suggesting that one room might be ideal for children. Your potential buyer might not be expecting just yet, but you don’t want the space to come across too chilly. Below, you would never think “kid” when looking at this simple study set up, what with the Paul McCobb desk, Sphere lamp and lounge chair it is the perfect wreck room example. Kept whimsical and soft enough the space could easily be imagined as a zen bedroom or nap time for baby. Someone with no interest in children would never notice the thought, but an expecting mother might feel right at home when her eyes dart from the shag rug to the playful gorgeous windows. Use your imagination!

You ideally want to traditionally stage your other room as the master suite, complete with bed and dresser. However, might we suggest composing a library or den environment instead? Adding an additional seating room creates the illusion of luxury in an apartment. Here we favored a love seat and slipper chair rather than going the bed route . Notice how we let the space of this main room breathe with corner flanking and minimal art work?

The last and very important rule of staging is placing mirrors in juxtaposition at certain areas within the home to create expansion. Doing so leaves an impression of the space and broadens the mind of the consumer. They might have missed a certain detail as they walk out the front door, but that mirror hanging in the foyer upon their exit reflects what was lacking, and you can bet that they’ll be back to seal the deal.

Russell and Carl own RepopNY 95% Recycled in Brooklyn, where they showcase their innovative design taste.

Category: Redesign Redone

2 Comments