Set the Stage

I think the word “staging” is misunderstood by many people. Often, the word is too narrowly associated with, simply, a method of preparing a home for sale by placing the objects in it in such a way as to reflect the home in the best possible light. Of course, this is true but ask yourself this question:

Why would we only want to stage our homes when we are preparing to move out of them?

The essential nature of staging is to prepare the home to the extent that we can embrace and love the space we are in now. To do that, you need to stage a welcoming environment that you will enjoy on a daily basis. When you walk outside to your outdoor living space do you feel so overwhelmed that you can’t wrap your brain around all that you sense needs to be done? If so, take a deep breath, get out the laptop or paper and pen and start writing down what you feel are the most important elements of your outdoor living space.

Perhaps, staging is as simple as cleaning and moving the furniture you already have into a more inviting configuration. Maybe, its a simple matter of updating the configuration by adding new pieces to your current furniture collection. If you're happy with all the furniture you presently have, you can spruce things up by getting some new lighting elements or, possibly, a new outdoor rug or rug replacement. A few new toss pillows can do wonders to create a different mood. Perhaps the cushions on your chairs need some repair or you're just tired of looking at the pattern you chose so many years ago. If you feel the patterns, colors and/or textures of your current cushions are outdated, perhaps its simply time for a replacement. Whatever you decide, ultimately, you want the outside of your home to reflect your personal signature as completely as does the inside.

This thought process is setting the stage for your space, an area that is defining the identity of who you are and how you want to exist with in its boundaries. Keep in mind, you’re creating a welcoming place for yourself or family and friends to enjoy. It’s perfectly acceptable to mix and match elements or find pieces that are compatible but not necessarily the same or part of a matching set. In face, "stirring up the pot" a bit can add a little funkiness to your outdoor space. Just remember, staging is a subjective endeavor and although there is not a absolute wrong way to stage, you must bear in mind general rules of aesthetics.

Staging should be as individual as are you and indicate to your guest, friends and/or family that its result is one of your creation and a clear statement that you live here and you’re really proud of what you have accomplished.

There’s always going to be exceptions and clearly there will be a time when calling a professional is your best course of action. Perhaps, you need to do something extra for an event. There is no reason to get frustrated or anxious as your outdoor space should be a refuge; a place to enjoy the peace and quiet at the end of the day or a serene place to entertain. If you are feeling trepidation at the thought of having to select pieces to compliment your existing furniture then contact a professional. Seek out an expert to help you select those touches that will give your open air room the feeling you want.

Happy staging,

Jane