Feel at Home

Feel at Home http://activerain.com/blogs/sandigerrard ReDesign & Staging Tips en-us http://activerain.com/blogsview/3454141/a-quick-update A Quick Update <p>I am no longer teaching the redesign & staging course for CRDA, but continue to be involved as Education Coordinator.  Please feel free to contact me at <a href="mailto:sandigerrard@rogers.com">sandigerrard@rogers.com</a> for information on training or membership, or visit the <a href="http://www.crda.wildapricot.org/" target="_blank">Canadian ReDesigners Association</a> directly.</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Sun, 23 Sep 2012 16:09:44 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/3454141/a-quick-update http://activerain.com/blogsview/2624494/val-sharp-photo-contest-winners Val Sharp Photo Contest Winners <p>I'm very proud to say that one of my recent graduates - <a href="http://www.facebook.com/movingforwardstaging">Margaret Periera</a> - won the award for <strong>BEST REDESIGN</strong> in our Association's annual photo contest.</p> <p>You can view the before and after photos <a href="http://www.crdaredesignstaging.com/index.cfm/14582/photo-contest-winners">HERE</a></p> <p>The contest was named in honour of our founder and my mentor, Val Sharp.</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:36:00 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2624494/val-sharp-photo-contest-winners http://activerain.com/blogsview/2590441/the-perfectly-imperfect-home The Perfectly Imperfect Home <p>I hear this book has been long anticipated and is one of those "must haves" for those of us that love to decorate.  It seems to be the talk of the town on many of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/feelathomestaging">FaceBook</a> pages that I like.  I know that I'll be flipping through the pages at my local bookstore soon.</p> <p> </p> <p> <iframe scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-ca.amazon.ca/e/cm?t=feeathom-20&o=15&p=8&l=as1&asins=0307720136&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&npa=1&f=ifr" frameborder="0" style="width: 120px; height: 240px;"></iframe></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>UPDATE: </strong> <em><strong>Had a look at this book yesterday - good content, but not a fan of the illustration style.  No real photos, just "watercolour style" sketches.</strong></em></p> <p><em><strong></strong></em> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Sun, 06 Nov 2011 09:31:25 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2590441/the-perfectly-imperfect-home http://activerain.com/blogsview/2590375/the-times-they-are-a-changing- The Times they are a'Changing . . . <p><strong>Did <em>YOU</em> remember to change your clocks back last night ?</strong></p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/6/7/8/3/ar132058571738762.jpg" height="405" alt="wall clocks" width="500"></p> <p>I'm so glad that cell phones and computers do that all on their own ... smart little things that they are!</p> <p>It was nice to wake up with a blast of sunshine in my face, but I'm not really looking forward to the early darkness this evening.  Just like snow and cold, you think we'd be used to it by now.</p> <p> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Sun, 06 Nov 2011 08:24:55 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2590375/the-times-they-are-a-changing- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2587618/100-years-of-color 100 YEARS OF COLOR <p>If you missed this in <em><strong>House & Home</strong></em> magazine, here it is courtesy of my friends at <strong>General Paint</strong>.  You'll have a difficult time choosing a favorite color for sure ... but give a try.  I usually lean toward the softer blue and green shades.  Would love to hear what YOU like !</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://houseandhome.com/generalpaint/?s=complete">100 YEARS OF COLOR</a></p> <p><em><strong></strong></em> </p> <p><em><strong>CONTEST ENDS NOVEMBER 10 !</strong></em></p> <p><em><strong></strong></em> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:14:11 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2587618/100-years-of-color http://activerain.com/blogsview/2582361/going-gray Going Gray <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Well it is November, after all ... and most of the glorious fall colour has now blown off the trees.  </span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">But the colour Gray is no longer viewed as drab and dreary or boring and blah.  It is now one of the most popular and sophisticated neutrals in home decorating.  If you are still afraid to try it on your walls, remember that even shades of blue and green can appear somewhat gray and that might be just the right choice for you.</span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">From the <strong><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=zgqsh8bab&et=1108011386881&s=0&e=001fyKk9s9mTAWmHYBW6PgikANfafsi7KELebrtuAVXn6yUDueJpKDAohfJf0FLYCnWFiWTCm7nKUYZQNUyKscGQKwZX9tJDJG7VdDAUKL_k-EfTK4C4frHUdKSU9bPKckuqQoaVZa0ioDti7ncObllig==" title="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=zgqsh8bab&et=1108011386881&s=0&e=001fyKk9s9mTAWmHYBW6PgikANfafsi7KELebrtuAVXn6yUDueJpKDAohfJf0FLYCnWFiWTCm7nKUYZQNUyKscGQKwZX9tJDJG7VdDAUKL_k-EfTK4C4frHUdKSU9bPKckuqQoaVZa0ioDti7ncObllig==" target="_blank" style="color: blue; font-size: 10pt; text-decoration: underline;">General Paint</a> ColorLife</strong> series I would suggest these beautiful selections:</span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> </span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; margin-left: 30px; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Elephant (CL 3163W)</span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; margin-left: 30px; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Mineral (CL 3192W)</span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; margin-left: 30px; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Stone Cutter (CL 3222W)</span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; margin-left: 30px; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Cobblestone (CL 2483M) - a pink undertone</span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; margin-left: 30px; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Hailstorm (CL 3012W) - a green undertone</span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; margin-left: 30px; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Charger (CL 3153W) - a blue undertone</span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt;">For ideas and other paint brand options click <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=zgqsh8bab&et=1108011386881&s=0&e=001fyKk9s9mTAWmHYBW6PgikANfafsi7KELebrtuAVXn6yUDueJpKDAohfJf0FLYCnWa10Kmsu1N1kHfdV4AsMsWkYM9UT8pLU50t8G6MAY03g9k1tuTNP77Fb7P66Suph8Sv2Z6TMTkpxpLjeS5exhXoEeBtVmyNFEewh8AkbjiIXH8FJiuEHq3Z1gNduBE6FFJo-fgGMg785G5_rni1usJmouTulaLMfDIl4JIgWK74igoQHQVU16_Q==" title="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=zgqsh8bab&et=1108011386881&s=0&e=001fyKk9s9mTAWmHYBW6PgikANfafsi7KELebrtuAVXn6yUDueJpKDAohfJf0FLYCnWa10Kmsu1N1kHfdV4AsMsWkYM9UT8pLU50t8G6MAY03g9k1tuTNP77Fb7P66Suph8Sv2Z6TMTkpxpLjeS5exhXoEeBtVmyNFEewh8AkbjiIXH8FJiuEHq3Z1gNduBE6FFJo-fgGMg785G5_rni1usJmouTulaLMfDIl4JIgWK74igoQHQVU16_Q==" target="_blank" style="color: blue; font-size: 10pt; text-decoration: underline;">HERE</a></span></strong></em> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #000000; font-size: 12pt;"> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Tue, 01 Nov 2011 09:43:21 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2582361/going-gray http://activerain.com/blogsview/2571283/squeaks-and-creaks- Squeaks and Creaks <p><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage">While squeaky doors and creaky floors are just the right touch for a haunted evening of fun, they are annonying any other time.  Found this quick fix on my favorite <a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/793808?utm_source=Houzz&utm_campaign=updates&utm_medium=email&utm_content=gallery9&d=2&w=17097">HOUZZ</a> website ... they really are an endless source of fabulous information.</span></p> <p><span class="messageBody translationEligibleUserMessage">Creaking floorboards and stair treads are another major source of irritation.  I'll see what I can find about that.  Unless the level below is unfinished, it can be tricky.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Tue, 25 Oct 2011 07:00:41 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2571283/squeaks-and-creaks- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2560935/should-you-set-your-table-when-selling-your-home- Should You Set Your Table When Selling Your Home? <p></p><p>Quite often clients will ask me if they should set their table for open house and showings.  I try to explain that it should be done in a simple understated way so as not to detract from the room.  Here's an excellent example from one of my fellow AR stagers.  Very nicely done !</p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2556740/should-you-set-your-table-when-selling-your-home-">Kathy Nielsen Atlanta Georgia Home Stager (Georgia Interior Solutions, LLC)</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <p><strong>Should You Set Your Table When Selling Your Home?</strong></p> <p>Here are my recommendations:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Set one table but not both - In other words, if there's a dining room table AND a kitchen table, set only one of them.</strong></li> <li><strong>If there's only one table, take into consideration "how busy a table setting" will have from a visual standpoint. If it appears "clutter-like", then opt for a simple arrangement. </strong></li> </ul> <div> </div> <div>I also let the home speak to me in terms of what it needs. For example, in this home (with one table), I wanted the chandelier to take center stage. As a result, I used small, contemporary dishes, no napkins, or glasses and a centerpiece. </div> <div> </div> <div>I added a twig to the centerpiece to help pick-up the browns from the window treatment and table:</div> <div> </div> <div><img title="Atlanta Home Stager Kathy Nielsen" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/6/8/5/4/ar131863521145862.jpg" height="429" alt="Dining room after home staging" width="640"></div> <div> </div> <div><strong>Close-ups:</strong></div> <div> </div> <div><img title="Home Stager in Atlanta Georgia" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/7/5/1/3/ar131863530731573.jpg" height="429" alt="Dining room table after home staging" width="640"></div> <div> </div> <div><img title="Georgia Home Staging" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/6/ar131863534565643.jpg" height="429" alt="Close-up Dining Room Table" width="640"></div> <div> </div> <div> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="background-color: #4B5A61; color: white; padding: 15px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Home Staging Atlanta - Kathy Nielsen - 678 522 8392</span></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>RESA Professional Stager of the Year - Southern Region 2011</strong></span></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;">Whether your home is vacant or occupied, this <strong>Atlanta Georgia Home Stager, Kathy Nielsen, </strong>understands what it takes to sell a home quickly. Her homes have graced the pages of several publications, appeared in TV commercials as well as on HGTV's hit program <em>Sleep On it</em>.</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;">With years of experience and a massive inventory - Kathy makes the perfect choice.</p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: justify;"> </p> <p><img title="Atlanta Georgia Home Staging Company" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/4/7/1/2/ar129284987921742.jpg" height="260" alt="Atlanta Home Stager Logo" width="317" style="float: left;"></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;">Home Staging Website:  <a href="http://homestagingatlanta.com" title="Atlanta Georgia Home Stager Kathy Nielsen" target="_blank">Home Staging Atlanta</a></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;">Before and After Pictures: <a href="http://www.homestagingatlanta.com/portfolio.htm" title="Atlanta Home Staging Before and After Pictures" target="_blank">Atlanta Home Staging Portfolio:</a></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.homestagingatlanta.com/portfolio.htm" title="Atlanta Home Staging Before and After Pictures" target="_blank"></a>Email:  Kathy@HomeStagingAtlanta.com  </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;">Blog: <a href="http://atlantahomestaging.net/blog/" title="Atlanta Home Staging Blog" target="_blank">Atlanta Home Staging</a></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;"> </p> <ul> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2054218/home-staging-your-kitchen-before-and-after-pictures-included" title="Home Staging Kitchen Transformations" target="_blank">Kitchen Transformations</a></li> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2040390/short-on-space-keep-it-simple-" title="Home Staging Solutions for small spaces" target="_blank">Short on Space? Keep it Simple</a></li> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1984707/tips-on-selling-your-home-from-a-professional-home-stager" title="Tips from a Professional Stager" target="_blank">Tips on Selling Your Home From a Professional Stager</a></li> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1974201/home-staging-atlanta-a-vacant-home-transformation-before-and-after-pictures-included" title="Curtains. Should they stay or go?" target="_blank">Curtains. Should they stay or go?</a></li> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1913048/how-to-dress-up-your-coffee-tables-end-tables" title="How to dress up your coffee table and end tables when selling" target="_blank">How to dress up your coffee table and end tables when selling</a></li> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1911115/table-settings-by-atlanta-home-stager-kathy-nielsen" title="Atlanta Home Stager shares quick tips on table settings" target="_blank">Quick tips for table settings</a></li> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1842220/how-will-buyers-remember-your-home-" title="How will buyers remember your home?" target="_blank">How will buyers remember your home?</a></li> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1840710/atlanta-home-staging-consultation-come-see-what-the-homeowner-did-" title="Atlanta Home Staging Consultations" target="_blank">Atlanta Home Staging Consultations - Check out what the homeowner did</a></li> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1838047/home-staging-atlanta-identical-twins-take-on-staging-" title="Atlanta Loft Gets Home Staged" target="_blank">Atlanta Loft Gets Home Staged</a></li> <li><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1782513/how-to-ensure-your-home-appeals-to-a-broad-base-of-prospective-buyers" title="How to ensure your home appeals to a broad base of prospective buyers" target="_blank">How to ensure your home appeals to a broad base of prospective buyers</a></li> </ul> <p> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: left;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://homestagingatlanta.com" title="Atlanta Georgia Home Stager Kathy Nielsen" target="_blank"></a></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.homestagingatlanta.com/portfolio.htm" title="Atlanta Home Staging Before and After Pictures" target="_blank"></a></p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="padding-left: 30px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Home-Staging-Atlanta/177774964186?ref=ts" title="Atlanta Home Stager Kathy Nielsen on Facebook" target="_blank"><img title="Atlanta Home Stager on Facebook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/2/4/1/5/ar127870363851428.png" height="64" alt="Kathy Nielsen Facebook Icon" width="64" style="margin: 10px;"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/HomeStaging" title="Atlanta Home Stager Kathy Nielsen Follow Me On Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Atlanta Georgia Home Stager on Twitter" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/1/1/3/9/ar127870373593111.png" height="64" alt="Kathy Nielsen Twitter Profile" width="64" style="margin: 10px;"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/profile?viewProfile=&key=18719491&locale=en_US&trk=tab_pro" title="Linked In Profile for Kathy Nielsen" target="_blank"><img title="Atlanta Georgia Home Stager Linked In" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/5/6/8/2/ar127870380828658.png" height="64" alt="Kathy Nielsen on Linked In" width="64" style="margin: 10px;"></a><a href="http://atlantahomestaging.net/" title="Kathy Nielsen Wordpress Website" target="_blank"><img title="Home Stager in Atlanta Georgia" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/8/0/8/9/ar127870399798089.png" height="64" alt="Kathy Nielsen on Wordpress Icon" width="64" style="margin: 10px;"></a></p> <div id="seolinx-tooltip" style="border: 1px solid #000000; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; display: none; width: auto;"> <table border="0" style="border: 0pt none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; border-collapse: separate; width: auto;"> <tbody> <tr> <td id="seolinx-table" style="border: 0pt none; margin: 1px; padding: 0pt; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold;"> <div style="margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; overflow: auto; width: auto;"> <table border="0" id="seolinx-paramtable" style="border: 1px solid gray; margin: 0pt; border-collapse: separate;"> <tbody> <tr> <td style=""> <img src="http://toolbarqueries.google.com/favicon.ico" height="12" alt="" width="12" style="vertical-align: middle;"> PR: <a title="Google pagerank" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a> </td> <td style=""> <img src="http://www.google.com/favicon.ico" height="12" alt="" width="12" style="vertical-align: middle;"> I: <a title="Google index" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a> </td> <td style=""> <img src="http://www.google.com/favicon.ico" height="12" alt="" width="12" style="vertical-align: middle;"> L: <a title="Google links" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a> </td> <td style=""> <img src="http://siteexplorer.search.yahoo.com/favicon.ico" height="12" alt="" width="12" style="vertical-align: middle;"> LD: <a title="Yahoo linkdomain" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a> </td> <td style=""> <img src="http://www.bing.com/favicon.ico" height="12" alt="" width="12" style="vertical-align: middle;"> I: <a title="Bing index" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a> </td> <td style=""><a title="Sitemap.xml" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a></td> <td style=""> <img src="http://www.semrush.com/favicon.ico" height="12" alt="" width="12" style="vertical-align: middle;"> Rank: <a title="SEMRush Rank" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a> </td> <td style=""> <img src="http://www.semrush.com/favicon.ico" height="12" alt="" width="12" style="vertical-align: middle;"> Traffic: <a title="SEMRush SE Traffic" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a> </td> <td style=""> <img src="http://www.semrush.com/favicon.ico" height="12" alt="" width="12" style="vertical-align: middle;"> Price: <a title="SEMRush SE Traffic price" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a> </td> <td style=""> <img src="http://siteanalytics.compete.com/favicon.ico" height="12" alt="" width="12" style="vertical-align: middle;"> C: <a title="Compete Rank" style="color: blue; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 7pt; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">wait...</a> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </td> <td title="close" id="seolinx-tooltip-close" style="border: 0pt none; margin: 0pt; padding: 1px; cursor: pointer; vertical-align: middle; width: auto;"><img alt=""></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div id="seolinx-tooltip" style="border: 1px solid #000000; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; display: none; width: auto;"> <table border="0" style="border: 0pt none ; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; border-collapse: separate; width: auto;"> <tbody> <tr> <td id="seolinx-table" style="border: 0pt none ; margin: 1px; padding: 0pt; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold;"> </td> <td title="close" id="seolinx-tooltip-close" style="border: 0pt none ; margin: 0pt; padding: 1px; cursor: pointer; vertical-align: middle; width: auto;"><img alt=""></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <div id="seolinx-tooltip" style="border: 1px solid #000000; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; display: none; width: auto;"> <table border="0" style="border: 0pt none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; border-collapse: separate; width: auto;"> <tbody> <tr> <td id="seolinx-table" style="border: 0pt none; margin: 1px; padding: 0pt; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold;"> </td> <td title="close" id="seolinx-tooltip-close" style="border: 0pt none; margin: 0pt; padding: 1px; cursor: pointer; vertical-align: middle; width: auto;"><img alt=""></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Tue, 18 Oct 2011 07:31:19 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2560935/should-you-set-your-table-when-selling-your-home- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2555606/fun-stuff-for-halloween- fun stuff for Halloween <p>Sometimes it's just fun to play up the season, whether you have little kids or are a big kid yourself.  These ideas from the great <a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/741181?utm_source=Houzz&utm_campaign=updates&utm_medium=email&utm_content=gallery2&d=2&w=17097">HOUZZ</a> website should inspire you to go all out crazy ...</p> <p><em>Generally I'm not a huge fan of seasonal wreaths but the orange fabric one is so adorable !</em></p> <p>And if you just want to throw a more subdued adult dinner party, these <a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/768007?utm_source=Houzz&utm_campaign=updates&utm_medium=email&utm_content=gallery16&d=2&w=17097">IDEAS</a> for your kitchen are great ...</p> <p><strong>HAPPY HALLOWEEN</strong> ... the countdown is on.</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Fri, 14 Oct 2011 09:03:28 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2555606/fun-stuff-for-halloween- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2550813/free-mini-colour-consultation-in-pickering-on- FREE Mini Colour Consultation in Pickering ON ! <p>Drop in to see my friend and colleague <a href="http://chicinteriorredesigns.com/">Sherry Gostlin</a> on <strong>Saturday October 15</strong>.  Bring your fabric swatch and room photo to the <strong>General Paint store </strong>at<strong> 670 Kingston Road </strong>in<strong> Pickering, Ontario</strong>.  You'll be so pleased with her helpful advice and great sense of style.</p> <p> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Tue, 11 Oct 2011 09:33:22 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2550813/free-mini-colour-consultation-in-pickering-on- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2550766/new-neutrals- New Neutrals <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">It's hard to think of neutrals when there are so many colourful leaves around us at this time of year.<span>  </span>But our walls should be calm and comfortable to allow those occasional pops of colour in art and decor to really stand out.<span>  </span><strong>Just remember - neutral does NOT mean boring beige !</strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; padding-left: 30px;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">~ from <strong><em>Style at Home</em></strong> online - the <a href="http://www.styleathome.com/how-to/painting/style-news-the-new-neutrals/a/36629">NEW NEUTRALS</a>           <img title="paint chips" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/2/5/4/4/ar131833770244527.jpg" height="198" alt="paint chips - fan deck" width="261" style="float: right;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"><em>We'll be talking about <strong>GRAY</strong> in my November newsletter - be sure to subscribe if you are not yet receiving it (just send me a message and I'll add your name to the list).</em></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Tue, 11 Oct 2011 08:56:52 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2550766/new-neutrals- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2547778/celebrate-canadian-thanksgiving-with-humidity-and-a-pile-of-leaves- Celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving with humidity and a pile of leaves ! <p>No no no, my American friends ... I haven't lost my mind or flipped my calendar forward.  We celebrate Thanksgiving in October north of the border, and what a glorious fall weekend we have.  Temperatures are expected to be about 25 C (77 F) with <strong>HUMIDITY</strong> today !</p> <p>But nevertheless, the leaves are still falling and here are some fun last minute <a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/772064?utm_source=Houzz&utm_campaign=updates&utm_medium=email&utm_content=gallery6&d=2&w=17097">IDEAS</a> to decorate your table or mantel for the season ...  </p> <p><em>Once again showing my love of the HOUZZ website.  Anyone who loves home decor and design absolutely must sign up for the HOUZZ newsletter !</em></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Sun, 09 Oct 2011 09:46:38 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2547778/celebrate-canadian-thanksgiving-with-humidity-and-a-pile-of-leaves- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2545020/staging-small-spaces-part-3-furniture-arrangement STAGING SMALL SPACES. PART 3--FURNITURE ARRANGEMENT <table class="comment_layout_table"><tbody><tr> <td class="badge"> <div style="margin-bottom: 3px; margin-right: 8px;"> </div> </td> <td class="comment_text" style="width: 100%;"> <p>Thank you, Janet.  Your series of blogs on small spaces is vital information for homeowners and novice stagers alike.  I have re-blogged to share your wealth of knowledge and the excellent demonstrations you've used.</p> </td> </tr></tbody></table><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2542633/staging-small-spaces-part-3-furniture-arrangement">Janet Jones, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii Home Staging/Interior Redesign (Just Your Style Interiors, LLC)</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.37393421022574114" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">STAGING SMALL SPACES.  PART 3--FURNITURE ARRANGEMENT</span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.37393421022574114" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I think the operative sentence for decorating small spaces would be "less is more".  The second bedroom of this 950 square foot, 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo that I have been blogging about definitely did not follow this rule.  This post is not about how to arrange furniture.  It is simply a look at how the present furniture arrangement works against this small space.  Consider these when your home is up for sale.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img title="second bedrom" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/7/4/1/4/ar131785020041479.jpg" height="328" alt="second bedroom" style="float: right; margin: 10px 15px;" width="425"></span></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Allow Adequate Space Between Furniture</span>.  If all the furniture pieces are sandwiched against each other and/or the walls, the space will appear small and cramped.  Look at this photo and you will see that each piece along the window wall abuts the  side wall and each other.  This wall reminds me of a size 12 woman squeezed into a pair of size 8 jeans.  (Is that possible?)  This is a simple indication that there is either too much furniture in the area or the furniture is too large.  The easiest solution is to remove or move something.  Because this room is so small, removal is the best option. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Positioning Casegoods</span>.  This next one could well get you flunked out of design school--placing the front of one casegood facing the side of another one.  You can see in the photo below how awkward this arrangement actually is.  Casegoods should wrap a corner or abut, but never cross over each other.  All this does is make the room feel smaller and communicate the lack of space.  </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="second bedroom" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/4/5/7/1/ar131785103117547.jpg" height="296" alt="second bedroom" style="float: right; margin: 10px 15px;" width="425"></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Make the View Accessible</span>.  If at all possible, avoid placing large pieces of furniture in front of windows--especially if the window has a view.  In this room there is an expansive view of the mountains (hard to see through the bamboo blinds--which probably couldn't be raised because the furniture is in the way!).  Since this is a great selling feature of this unit, prospective buyers should be able to walk right up to that window and say, "Wow, great view".  Blocking access to this feature will not help to get this condo sold quickly.  In almost all cases keeping the furniture away from the windows helps the room appear larger because you see out the window past the walls of the room.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Clear The Floorspace</span>.  Ask yourself if every piece of furniture in the room is <em>essential</em> to selling your home.  You may have a cocktail table--or in this case two rattan baskets acting as one--but are they <em>essential</em>?  No, they actually take up valuable walking space.  Staging is not about showcasing the furnishings, it's about highlighting the space.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="second bedroom after" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/3/0/6/9/ar131785143396039.jpg" height="296" alt="second bedroom after" style="float: right; margin: 10px 15px;" width="425"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The "After"</span>.  In my "after" rendering only the essential furniture remains.  The walkway to the window has been cleared so sellers can enjoy the view.  The two large casegoods have been removed and replaced with one appropriate to the scale of the room.  One rattan basket has been repositioned as a side table (the existing wall-mounted fixture makes this possible.)  With this furniture arrangement buyers can also more easily imagine this room as a bedroom--mentally replacing the love seat with a bed, and the two side tables with night stands. The space feels much larger, open and inviting.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Buyers don't like spaces for subtle reasons they can't explain.  It often comes down to elements like these--furniture arrangement, focal points, barriers.  To give yourself the best chance to sell you home quickly and for the most money, consult with a professional home stager in your area.  Our expertise is in "seeing" these details and resolving them.  We create spaces buyers love and want to live in.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">For further discussion on these issues, please see the other two posts in this series:  <a href="http://actvra.in/kHs" title="Staging Small Space--Part 1, Focal Point" target="_blank">Staging Small Spaces.  Part 1--Focal Points</a> and <a href="http://actvra.in/kMR" title="Staging Small Space. Part 2--Invisible Barriers" target="_blank">Staging Small Spaces.  Part 2--Invisible Barriers.  </a></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="blog divider" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/8/3/4/3/ar131785196234387.jpg" height="38" alt="blog divider" width="361"></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><a href="http://just-your-styie-interiors.com" title="Just Your Style Interiors" target="_blank"><img title="Just Your Style Interiors Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/0/1/9/0/ar130783043709104.png" height="503" alt="Just Your Style Interiors signature" width="651"></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Just.Your.Style.Interiors.LLC" title="Follow me on Facebook" target="_blank"><img title="Follow me on Facebook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/7/6/3/0/ar130927603403676.png" height="49" alt="Facebook button" width="49" style="float: left; margin: 0px 8px;"></a></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=110386514&trk=tab_pro" title="Linked In" target="_blank"><img title="Lined In" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/1/8/4/6/ar130927651264813.png" height="50" alt="Linked In buttom" width="50" style="vertical-align: top;"></a></p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:26:28 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2545020/staging-small-spaces-part-3-furniture-arrangement http://activerain.com/blogsview/2545009/staging-small-spaces-part-2-invisible-barriers-or-why-does-the-space-feel-so-small- STAGING SMALL SPACES. PART 2--INVISIBLE BARRIERS (OR WHY DOES THE SPACE FEEL SO SMALL?) <p>Part 2 of Janet Jones' blog on "Staging Small Spaces".  Furniture choices and placement can often chop up a space and create obstacles to what we call "flow".  The more floor space we can view the better, and uncluttered corners of the room make it feel much larger.  Being able to walk up to a window is key !</p> <div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2540486/staging-small-spaces-part-2-invisible-barriers-or-why-does-the-space-feel-so-small-">Janet Jones, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii Home Staging/Interior Redesign (Just Your Style Interiors, LLC)</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">STAGING SMALL SPACES.  PART 2--INVISIBLE BARRIERS (OR WHY DOES THE SPACE FEEL SO SMALL?)</span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">My previous post, <a href="http://actvra.in/kHs" title="Staging Small Spaces--Part 1, Focal Point" target="_blank">STAGING SMALL SPACES.  PART 1--FOCAL POINT</a>, was an initial look at why the sellers should have staged this small second bedroom in their 950 square foot 2-bedroom, 2 bath unit before listing it for sale.  Having addressed how to correct the focal point, let's look at another issue--size.  </span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Why does this room appear to be much smaller than it actually is?  This room has what I refer to as "invisible barriers".  This is where furniture blocks the views of corners and/or walls, or constricts/prevents access to part of the space.  Wherever these occur, our brains construct a sort of invisible wall, and we experience the room inside of these "invisible walls".  </span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Seeing it is probably easier than explaining it.  Let's look at the room in detail:</span></p> <ul> <li><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">First, we have that dark cabinet in the corner.  Dark objects appear to "advance" so not only is it blocking the view of the corner, but it seems larger than it is. <br></span></li> <li> <span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="Second Bedroom Original" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/6/1/9/ar13177497091684.jpg" height="233" alt="Second bedroom original" style="float: right; margin: 10px;" width="350"></span><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">On the left side of the room is a dresser.  A standard dresser is 18" deep, so literally 18-20" of depth gets subtracted from our view, because with the TV (an advancing dark object) the whole unit has the visual footprint of an armoire.  You can't see the wall behind it so our brains register an invisible barrier at the front of the dresser.  </span> </li> <li><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">A sofa or love seat is generally what I refer to as a "see over" piece of furniture; i.e., since you can see over it to a wall it doesn't create a barrier.  However, by positioning the love seat in front of the window the sellers have created a true barrier.  Since you know you need to access the windows and window covering you actually start experiencing the space as ending in front of the love seat. There is no space on either side of that love seat that allows access to the window wall.  <br></span></li> </ul> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="Second Bedroom with invisible barriers" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/6/6/0/5/ar131775142750664.jpg" height="283" alt="Second bedroom original" style="margin: 10px 25px; float: left;" width="425"></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The photo on the right shows what your brain is actually registering upon entering this room.  I've made the invisible barriers quasi visible.  <br></span><br><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Now, look at the red area on the floor--this is the visible floor space. This is also what our brains are using to "measure" the space.  There literally is no place to walk here.  Our brain takes all of these elements together--invisible barriers and visible floor space and returns one simple word, "small".  </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">It's pretty simple now to answer that question as to why this space </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">feels like it does.  A few  simple decorating decisions that met the homeowners' needs now unfortunately communicate a totally different message to buyers.  <br></span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The computer-generated "after" I did of this room has quite a different feel to it: </span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="Second bedroom" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/3/7/1/6/ar131775285861734.jpg" height="314" alt="Second bedroom" style="float: left; margin: 10px 25px;" width="450"></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></p> <ol> <li><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">All the corners are visible. <br></span></li> <li><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">All of the furniture is "see over".  Since you have no reason to access the wall behind the love seat there is no barrier created by placing it along this wall.  This is further reinforced by the fact that you can see over the arm of the love seat to the corner of the room.  The TV is on a low cabinet which allows you to see over and around it directly out to the view of the mountain.  (A wall-mounted TV in this space would probably block part of the corner.)  <br></span></li> <li><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Notice the difference in the amount of visible floor space, highlighted in red, as compared to the original photo.  </span></li> </ol> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">If you want to make any small space appear larger then consider how you can incorporate these three concepts into it.  And remember that every space is unique so these concepts should only be applied after taking the entire space into consideration:</span></p> <ol> <li><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Try to clearly see all four corners.  Remove furniture and items such as potted plants that are great for decorating but not for selling.  <br></span></li> <li><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Expose as much of the the walls as possible by using "see over" furniture.  Remove large-scale pieces of furniture that "subtract" wall and floor space by creating invisible barriers.  This includes things like removing the tops from buffets and taking TV's out of armoires and/or entertainment systems and placing them on low stands.  <br></span></li> <li><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Open up as much floor space as possible.  Remove extraneous furniture and/or opt for furniture that has low visual weight--like the glass side table in this rendering.  Seeing through furniture prevents it from creating invisible barriers.    <br></span></li> </ol> <p><br><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9502647514805072" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The final part of this series:  Furniture arrangement.  </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="blog divider" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/1/7/0/1/ar131775492310714.jpg" height="38" alt="blog divider" width="361"></span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><a href="http://just-your-styie-interiors.com" title="Just Your Style Interiors" target="_blank"><img title="Just Your Style Interiors Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/0/1/9/0/ar130783043709104.png" height="503" alt="Just Your Style Interiors signature" width="651"></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Just.Your.Style.Interiors.LLC" title="Follow me on Facebook" target="_blank"><img title="Follow me on Facebook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/7/6/3/0/ar130927603403676.png" height="49" alt="Facebook button" width="49" style="float: left; margin: 0px 8px;"></a></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=110386514&trk=tab_pro" title="Linked In" target="_blank"><img title="Lined In" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/1/8/4/6/ar130927651264813.png" height="50" alt="Linked In buttom" width="50" style="vertical-align: top;"></a></p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:12:42 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2545009/staging-small-spaces-part-2-invisible-barriers-or-why-does-the-space-feel-so-small- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2545004/staging-small-spaces-part-1-focal-point STAGING SMALL SPACES. PART 1--FOCAL POINT <p></p><p>Another great blog post - this one from Janet Jones of Hawaii - on staging small spaces.  Notice how distracting the bookcase and mirrored cabinet are in the first image?  And how the furniture placement blocks the window? </p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2539093/staging-small-spaces-part-1-focal-point">Janet Jones, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii Home Staging/Interior Redesign (Just Your Style Interiors, LLC)</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.18475881281598838" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">STAGING SMALL SPACES.  PART 1--FOCAL POINT </span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.18475881281598838" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="second bedroom after" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/4/4/5/4/ar131768322245447.jpg" height="240" alt="second bedroom before" style="float: left; margin: 10px;" width="360">A few months back I stopped into an open house for a condo that had just come onto the market.  I was really struck by my response to the room in the photo to the left.  This is the second bedroom of this 950 square foot, 2-bedroom, 2-bath unit, so all the rooms are very small.  </span><span id="internal-source-marker_0.18475881281598838" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I literally felt like I was holding my breathe in this space. </span><span id="internal-source-marker_0.18475881281598838" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">So why this response?</span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.18475881281598838" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I knew the Realtor©, and had assisted her with staging before, so we discussed it for this unit.  She said the condo was professionally decorated and the owners felt there was no reason to stage it.  They were all certain it would sell quickly. </span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.18475881281598838" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">This room is a perfect example of so many things not to do when selling your home, and while I thought I could cover them all in one post, it's ending up to be three separate discussions.  Let's start with the Focal Point.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">A focal point is simply that which catches your attention when you first enter a room.  A well-designed room has a strong focal point and then guides your eye around the space in an orderly and soothing manner.  While it does appear that the condo was professionally decorated, the owners added the cabinet in the back corner.  Your eye is naturally drawn to the strongest contrast in a room, which adding a cabinet in this color against these netrual walls creates.  So by default this is their focal point.  Not what they intended.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The photo on the</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="second bedroom wrong focal point" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/2/2/9/6/ar131768353869227.jpg" height="260" alt="second bedroom wrong focal point" style="float: right; margin: 10px;" width="360"></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> right shows how you actually "read" the room.  </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The red arrow is the primary focal point and then the blue arrows trace the movement of your eye. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">If you feel uncomfortable in a space it starts with inadvertent things like this.   The arrows trace a path that is confusing and unsettling.  Buyers don't "know" this; they just move through the space quickly and then comment that the room feels small or they didn't care for the colors . . . . <br></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="second bedroom corrected focal point" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/4/7/8/ar131768393587463.jpg" height="251" alt="second bedroom corrected focal point" style="float: right; margin: 10px;" width="360">Since you know the owners didn't stage this condo, the best way I can show you an "after photo" is through a process of photo manipulation and 3-D architectural software.  First, let's correct the focal point by removing the tall, dark cabinet.  Because this space is small the best place for the focal point is the wall opposite the door (where the TV currently is), because that is the first thing you see upon entering the room.  <em>(I will discuss the furniture arrangement in a separate post.) </em> Notice now where the focal point is (again indicated by the red arrow) and how you "read" the room.  Much more calming and thus welcoming.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Which space do you think buyers want to be in?  Which space do you think buyers are more likely to want to buy?  Does it surprise you that this unit is still on the market and has received no offers to date? </span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="second bedroom after" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/5/0/6/5/ar131768433956051.jpg" height="233" alt="second bedroom before" style="margin: 10px;" width="350"><img title="second bedroom after" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/8/7/0/9/ar131768467290789.jpg" height="244" alt="second bedroom after" style="float: right; margin: 10px;" width="350"></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The next post:  Invisible barriers.  <br></span></p> <p><span id="internal-source-marker_0.18475881281598838" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">  </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><a href="http://just-your-styie-interiors.com" title="Just Your Style Interiors" target="_blank"><img title="Just Your Style Interiors Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/0/1/9/0/ar130783043709104.png" height="503" alt="Just Your Style Interiors signature" width="651"></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Just.Your.Style.Interiors.LLC" title="Follow me on Facebook" target="_blank"><img title="Follow me on Facebook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/7/6/3/0/ar130927603403676.png" height="49" alt="Facebook button" width="49" style="float: left; margin: 0px 8px;"></a></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=110386514&trk=tab_pro" title="Linked In" target="_blank"><img title="Lined In" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/1/8/4/6/ar130927651264813.png" height="50" alt="Linked In buttom" width="50" style="vertical-align: top;"></a></p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:08:30 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2545004/staging-small-spaces-part-1-focal-point http://activerain.com/blogsview/2544997/twelve-expert-tips-to-make-a-small-home-appear-larger Twelve Expert Tips to Make A Small Home Appear Larger <p></p><p>Thank you to Michelle Minch of California for this blog post and her excellent tips on making a small space feel bigger.  Number 5 is something that many home owners are afraid to try, but pulling the furniture away from the walls (even if only a few inches) can make a huge difference.  Suddently, everything has "breathing space" !</p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2538471/twelve-expert-tips-to-make-a-small-home-appear-larger">Michelle Minch Home Staging Los Angeles & Pasadena, CA (Moving Mountains Design Home Staging, Pasadena, CA)</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <h2>I am frequently asked, by the real estate agents I work with, how to make their listing, which is on the small size, look larger to appeal to more buyers. As a <a href="http://www.movingmountainsdesign.com/" title="We help sell your house">professional house stager in Pasadena and Los Angeles</a>, one of my primary jobs is to make smaller homes feel larger, or at least, feel as large as they really are.</h2> <p><a href="http://www.movingmountainsdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/LR0166.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-2161" title="Small living room made to look larger with correct furniture" src="http://www.movingmountainsdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/LR0166.png" height="340" alt="Small livingroom made to look larger with correct furniture" width="500"></a>     <strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Here's a list of my tips for making a small home feel larger.</strong> You can use these tips whether you are <strong><a href="http://www.movingmountainsdesign.com/help-sell-house/" title="We help sell your house">staging a home to sell</a></strong> or if you are planning to stay, but just need some help dealing with smaller rooms. These tips will work with either vacant (if you're bringing in furniture) or occupied homes (dealing with the client's existing furniture):</p> <ol> <li> <strong>Pare down the furniture in a smaller room to the essentials.</strong> Do they really need a chair in your bedroom, or will the room appear larger with just the bed, the nightstands and maybe a dresser?</li> <li> <strong>Clutter makes a room feel smaller.</strong> Lots of smaller items, like a Hummel collection or bowling trophies displayed on every horizontal surface, eat up visual space. Only display 3-5 items at a time. Store, sell or prepack the rest.<strong> You're selling a home, not a collection of treasures. </strong> </li> <li> <strong>Use fewer pieces of furniture.</strong> Its better to have one larger dresser than 2 smaller ones.</li> <li> <strong>Use appropriately sized furniture.</strong> Having a large sofa in a small family room will highlight how small the room is.</li> <li> <strong>Pull furniture away from the wall.</strong> Create a cozy sitting area in front of the fireplace, with room to move around the back of the furniture.</li> <li><strong>Cooler colors recede, so painting a room a pale blue, green or gray will make it feel larger.</strong></li> <li> <strong>Show more hardwood.</strong> The larger the expanse of hardwood, the larger the room will look. See how the room looks without an area rug. If the hardwood floors are hidden by wall to wall carpet, remove the carpet. The home will feel instantly larger.</li> <li> <strong>Try using one larger area rug instead of several smaller rugs</strong>. Or if the room looks OK without it, don't use any area rugs.</li> <li> <strong>Use fewer patterns on upholstery and bedding.</strong> For instance, use a solid color blanket or bedspread on a bed in a small bedroom to make the room feel larger. Lighter colored bedding will make the room feel larger.</li> <li><strong>Strategically placed mirrors make a room feel larger.</strong></li> <li> <strong>A well lit room feels larger. </strong>Make sure every overhead light and table lamp is lit before open houses and showings.</li> <li> <strong>Minimize window treatments. The simpler the better.</strong> Shutters, blinds or simple drapes (no flounces, ruffles, strong patterns or complicated valences) take up less "visual space".</li> </ol> <h2>These home staging tips work if you are staging to sell or just want to make the home you are living in feel larger.</h2> <p>If you need some help figuring out how to make your home or listing feel larger, consider hiring us for a home staging consultation. <strong>You'll get some easy-to-implement expert home staging and interior design tips.</strong>  <strong>Its the best "bang for your buck" and it's a great investment in preparing your home or listing for sale, or making your home more livable if you are planning to stay. </strong></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;">_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Los Angeles real estate staging company" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/5/9/4/5/ar129634189254955.jpg" height="117" alt="Los Angeles Real Estate Staging" width="794" style="border: 3px solid gray;"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: tahoma,arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong><span>2010 RESA Professional Stager of the Year</span> </strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Michelle has staged hundreds of Los Angeles homes, many of which have sold with multiple offers, above listing price.<br></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>She works with home sellers, listing agents and asset managers to prepare homes for sale throughout Los Angeles. </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Moving Mountains Design provides <strong>vacant home staging, occupied home staging, color consultations, corporate and executive relocations, move organization, redesign, and interior design</strong>. We also <strong>stage model homes, REOs,foreclosures and auction properties for real estate investors and asset managers. </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>For more information about our Los Angeles home staging services, contact Michelle at (626)385-8852 or by <a href="http://movingmountainsdesign.com/contact/" title="contact Los Angeles home stager" target="_blank">email</a>. </strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Click here to see our <a href="http://www.movingmountainsdesign.com/portfolio/" title="los angeles home stager portfolio" target="_blank">L<strong>os Angeles home staging portfolio </strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Click here to go to our <strong><a href="http://www.movingmountainsdesign.com/home-staging-blog/" title="los angeles home staging blog" target="_blank">Los Angeles home staging blog</a></strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Click here for more information about <strong><a href="http://www.MovingMountainsDesign.com" title="home staging in Los Angeles" target="_blank">home staging in Los Angeles</a> </strong>and how we can help sell your home faster and for the best price</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://facebook.com/movingmountainsdesign" title="follow los angeles home stager on facebook" target="_blank"><img title="follow Moving Mountains Design on Facebook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/3/0/7/ar125606487170354.png" height="78" alt="follow Moving Mountains Design on Facebook" width="62" style="float: left;"></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;">    <a href="http://twitter.com/homestagingpro" title="follow los angeles home stager on twitter" target="_blank"><img title="follow Moving Mountains Design on Twitter" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/4/1/3/1/ar125606495813144.png" height="72" alt="follow Moving Mountains Design on Twitter" width="154"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleminch%20%20" title="Connect with me on Linked In" target="_blank"><img title="follow Moving Mountains Design on linked in" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/6/7/9/ar125606505197674.png" height="78" alt="follow Moving Mountains Design on linked in" width="62"></a></p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:01:40 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2544997/twelve-expert-tips-to-make-a-small-home-appear-larger http://activerain.com/blogsview/2539706/speaking-of-jane-lockhart- Speaking of Jane Lockhart ... <p>Yesterday I re-blogged a post about Jane Lockhart's show "Colour Confidential" and how much we enjoy her presentation style with the colour wheel.</p> <p>Well if you'd like a chance to meet her in person and hear her speak, she'll be in town on October 19 at the Erin Mills Paint & Decor Store in Mississauga, ON.  I've included a link here to their website where you can see all of the details on how to reserve your seat and get tickets.  It will be a fun and affordable night out.  She's a delightful lady and an engaging speaker.</p> <p><a href="http://www.erinmillspaint.com/sb.cn">TICKET INFO</a></p> <p> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Tue, 04 Oct 2011 08:22:33 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2539706/speaking-of-jane-lockhart- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2538070/colour-consulting-choose-your-room-colours-with-a-3d-colour-wheel Colour Consulting: Choose Your Room Colours with a 3D Colour Wheel <p></p><p>One of my favorite "design" shows on TV.  Jane Lockhart makes the colour selection process fun and foolproof.  If you can relate to the objects in the colour wheel you will definitely love the outcome.  It's like having a room makeover - if you love your stuff you can't go wrong.</p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2442051/colour-consulting-choose-your-room-colours-with-a-3d-colour-wheel">Donna Ross Home Decorating, House Staging, Sydney (Room Remedy Interiors, Sydney, Australia)</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">One of my all time favourite television shows here in Australia is <strong><a href="http://www.janelockhart.com/media/" title="Colour Confidential" target="_blank">‘Colour Confidential’</a></strong> hosted by interior designer Jane Lockhart (pictured below).</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><img title="Colour Confidential with Jane Lockhart" src="http://i477.photobucket.com/albums/rr133/donnar71/Janeimage.jpg" height="258" alt="Jane Lockhart" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="195"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The show is somewhat unique in that the star of the show is not so much its female host, but rather <em>an object</em>. In this case it’s an interactive 3D colour wheel.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The 12 colour wheel in its 3D format has 2 main functions;</span></p> <ol> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">It gives homeowners the chance to look at a variety of colours without any bias toward them. This is done by adding a selection of coloured items the homeowners can relate too based in their interests and backgrounds.</span></div> </li> <li> <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It gives homeowners a real perspective on how colours work together based on their position on the wheel. </span></span></div> </li> </ol> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">As host, Lockhart is friendly and warm and one who clearly knows her stuff. With a talent for sharing and communicating her vast knowledge, she comes across as endlessly patient and understanding when some of her clients struggle to find their colour courage.<span>  </span>As one professional to another, these are qualities I greatly admire.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Throughout the show, Lockhart shares many decorating tips in plain, easy to understand language with her audience on a variety of design elements from colour, accessorising, flooring, lighting, choosing fabrics and more.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Like any decorating show, there are a couple of that get skimmed over. Things like, selecting the right tones for a harmonious look and how to choose colours based on your existing furnishings and accessories. Still, this show is built around a strong idea that looks fun whilst having real educational value.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><img title="Room Remedy Interiors Sydney" src="http://i477.photobucket.com/albums/rr133/donnar71/colourwheel2005.jpg" height="313" alt="Interactive Colour Wheel" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; vertical-align: middle; margin-right: auto;" width="302"> <span> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><strong>It’s the fun and educational</strong> part of this show that has<strong> inspired me to create my very own interactive colour wheel (shown above).</strong> Not only do I plan to use it as a key element of my <strong>colour consultations,</strong> but as someone who teaches classes to non professionals (not only do I love it, but dare I say, I’m good at it) on how to use colour in their own homes, I felt the 3D wheel would be an interesting, fun and best of all memorable way to show others how they can use colour at home. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><em>The first client to use my wheel?</em> That will me as I embark on a total makeover in my bedroom. </span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><strong>Room Remedy Interiors</strong></p> <p><em>"Ready, Set, Redecorate in a Day"</em></p> <p><strong>Sydney, Central Coast, & Newcastle</strong></p> <p>Find out more about us at <a href="http://www.roomremedy.com.au"><strong>www.roomremedy.com.au</strong></a></p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Mon, 03 Oct 2011 11:37:25 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2538070/colour-consulting-choose-your-room-colours-with-a-3d-colour-wheel http://activerain.com/blogsview/2533515/celery-chocolate Celery & Chocolate <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/8/1/2/1/ar131738655012186.jpg" height="311" alt="redesigned room" width="405" style="float: right;"></p> <p>Sounds good doesn't it?  Was your first thought a childhood snack ... with chocolate as the substitute for peanut butter?</p> <p>When choosing a colour scheme for your home or any room, using the colours found in nature's palette always works beautifully.  Just imagine the pale silvery green of an olive tree with the dark brown branches ... very nice !</p> <p>View some very inspiring photos <a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/689358?utm_campaign=updates&utm_medium=email&utm_content=gallery19&d=2&w=17097">HERE</a> via my favorite <strong>HOUZZ</strong> website.</p> <p> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:44:08 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2533515/celery-chocolate http://activerain.com/blogsview/2533500/quote-of-the-day Quote of the Day <p><strong><em>"Your home is where you live, not just physically but spiritually and emotionally as well." <br><br>~ </em></strong>Oprah (as quoted in <em><strong>Home Rules</strong> </em>by Nate Berkus)<br><br></p> <div class="separator" style="text-align: center; clear: both;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jEBbDVUXtwY/Tmk4tLZRpLI/AAAAAAAAAKA/kmloU6bTXaU/s1600/TV%2Bshoot%2B010.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; float: left; clear: left; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jEBbDVUXtwY/Tmk4tLZRpLI/AAAAAAAAAKA/kmloU6bTXaU/s320/TV%2Bshoot%2B010.jpg" border="0" height="240" alt="" width="320"></a></div> <div>When we redecorate with what is already owned, living well can be an affordable luxury - one that we should all invest in.</div> <div> </div> <div>This room has a very tranquil quality while at the same time looks so warm and inviting.  Thank you to the homeowner and my client for permission to share.</div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:34:37 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2533500/quote-of-the-day http://activerain.com/blogsview/2533495/-a-perfectly-kept-house-is-the-sign-of-a-misspent-life-and-the-antithesis-of-home-staging- "A PERFECTLY KEPT HOUSE IS THE SIGN OF A MISSPENT LIFE" AND THE ANTITHESIS OF HOME STAGING! <p></p><p>An excellent example of the difference between a "house" and a "home", and how to interpret those differences when selling your "house" (originally posted by Janet Jones, Home Stager of Hawaii).  Thanks for the good recommendation on this book, Janet.</p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2531540/-a-perfectly-kept-house-is-the-sign-of-a-misspent-life-and-the-antithesis-of-home-staging-">Janet Jones, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii Home Staging/Interior Redesign (Just Your Style Interiors, LLC)</a></b>:<br><blockquote> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.49303559235488714" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">"A PERFECTLY KEPT HOUSE IS THE SIGN OF A MISSPENT LIFE" AND THE ANTITHESIS OF HOME STAGING<br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.49303559235488714" style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="A Perfectly Kept House" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/2/6/5/ar131727755856274.jpg" height="497" alt="A Perfectly Kept House" style="float: right; margin: 5px 20px;" width="425">You have to love the title--well, not of the post.  The part in quotes is actually the title of a book by Mary Randolph Carter.  Even better is the byline:  "How to Live Creatively with Collections, Clutter, Work, Kids, Pets, Art, Etc., . . . and Stop Worrying about Everything Being Perfectly in Its Place.  While reading this it occurred to me that what she writes is the antithesis of home staging--the line in the sand separating "home" from "house"--which is critically important for sellers to cross before listing their property.  <br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Why do I say that?  Carter's focus is on a creating a home--a place that has a heart and soul and is lived in by family and enjoyed by friends.  Her "cluttered aesthetic" is inspired by her love of antiques and many hard to resist thrift-store finds.  The book actually takes us inside the homes of artists, designers, photographers, and even a chef, and how they live with their work, art, children, and pets.  </span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"> <span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">This photo of her living room is a perfect example of the style she embraces. However, if this photo were in the MLS many buyers would move right past it to the next listing.  It is so infused with the owner's personality that the room itself (which has a few interesting architectural features) goes unnoticed.  </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="Carter LR" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/7/1/3/9/ar131727767293172.jpg" height="265" alt="Carter LR" style="float: left; margin: 5px 15px;" width="400"></span> </div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"> <span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">While Carter writes beautiful essays on creating a wonderful sense of home, home stagers work on undoing that and creating a "house".  The difference being that </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">"home" has the sellers' personal stamp.  And while personality sings through loudly, anyone looking at the photos in the book would clearly feel those spaces were not their home.  "House" however, allows the buyer to imagine adding their own personal touch; to make it their home.   "Home" clearly says, "Mine"; "House clearly says, "This can be Yours".  </span> </div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The book is both a design manual, and a helpful manual full of practical advise--like how to love the imperfection and live perfectly with it at the same time.  She writes about "clutter" versus "mess", how to live with unmade beds and counsels, "Don't scrub the soul out of your home".  And she writes, "Life isn't perfect--why should your house be?"  Well, actually when you put your "house" up for sale it needs to be as close to perfect as possible.  If not, buyers will be happy to point out just where it falls short--and make offers that reflect their estimate on just how far off the "perfect" mark it is. And as far as scrubbing the soul out of it--while, the terminology may be a bit extreme, but deep cleaning is the order of the day for a listed property.  <br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">This book is a wonderful read.  And while you're reading it take note of Carter's beautiful  photography.  If your house is listed for sale and any of your MLS photos resemble the pictures in the book, you definitely have much too much "home" in your "house".  Buyers will feel uncomfortable while touring the property because they will not be able to imagine <em>their</em> dream "home" inside of yours.  </span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">If you've lived in your home a number of years you probably don't see all the little details that still keep it a "home" and not a "house".  What to do?  Your simplest option is to consult with a professional home stager.  Their training and experience will help transform your home into the house that buyers dream of.  Then you can quickly move forward to creating the next dream home for your family, too.  </span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img title="blog divider" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/9/5/7/ar131727894675992.jpg" height="38" alt="blog divider" width="360"></span></div> <div class="productDescriptionWrapper"><span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br></span></div> <p> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p><a href="http://just-your-styie-interiors.com" title="Just Your Style Interiors" target="_blank"><img title="Just Your Style Interiors Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/0/1/9/0/ar130783043709104.png" height="503" alt="Just Your Style Interiors signature" width="651"></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Just.Your.Style.Interiors.LLC" title="Follow me on Facebook" target="_blank"><img title="Follow me on Facebook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/7/6/3/0/ar130927603403676.png" height="49" alt="Facebook button" width="49" style="float: left; margin: 0px 8px;"></a></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=110386514&trk=tab_pro" title="Linked In" target="_blank"><img title="Lined In" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/1/8/4/6/ar130927651264813.png" height="50" alt="Linked In buttom" width="50" style="vertical-align: top;"></a></p> </div> </blockquote> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:28:20 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2533495/-a-perfectly-kept-house-is-the-sign-of-a-misspent-life-and-the-antithesis-of-home-staging- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2503696/free-house- FREE HOUSE <p>Well if that blog title doesn't get your attention, nothing will.  I stumbled across this <a href="http://realestate.yourmoney.ca/2011/09/when-free-costs-too-much.html">ARTICLE</a> in the online news headlines the other day and it definitely made me sit up and take notice.  Pretty little house ... or maybe it's just the wildflowers growing in the foreground that make it seem that way.</p> <p>Bottom line is ... FREE doesn't always mean FREE.</p> <p>I imagine this would be the ultimate fixer-upper and move-her-over project !</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Mon, 12 Sep 2011 16:37:19 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2503696/free-house- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2500320/general-paint-catalogue General Paint Catalogue <p>The <strong><a href="http://www.crdaredesignstaging.com/index.cfm/14573/colour-consultants">Canadian ReDesigners Association</a></strong> has a long-standing partnership with <strong>General Paint</strong>.  Many of our members have now been certified as <strong><a href="http://www.generalpaint.com/consult">Colour Consultants</a></strong> with a knowledge of the product as well. </p> <p>For those of you unfamiliar with the brand, here's a <a href="http://www.generalpaint.com/Catalogue/">LINK</a> to their product catalogue. </p> <p>General Paint recently celebrated their 100th anniversary.  You can find them on FACEBOOK - their page has lots of great tips and fun ideas.</p> <p> </p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Sat, 10 Sep 2011 10:45:16 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2500320/general-paint-catalogue http://activerain.com/blogsview/2496575/another-fun-place-to-shop Another Fun Place to Shop <p>I love CONSIGNMENT stores, and this one has it all ... <em><strong>furniture, fashion and home decor</strong></em> items.  Some really great stuff at great prices.  This is the kind of place where you can see how easily the old blends with the new, and where you can find that unique piece you've always been looking for.</p> <p>It's just a short drive to <strong>Caledon Village</strong>, so be sure to check it out - <a href="http://www.chicaboominc.com/">Chic a Boom</a></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Thu, 08 Sep 2011 07:29:28 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2496575/another-fun-place-to-shop http://activerain.com/blogsview/2494738/professional-development-for-home-stagers- Professional Development for Home Stagers* <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/7/8/2/2/ar13154035822879.jpg" height="171" alt="CRDA logo" width="400"></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">This is a personal invitation to attend the <strong><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/">CRDA</a> Professional Development Days</strong>.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><strong>Please <a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm?DocID=14527">CLICK HERE</a> for dates and details.</strong> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">There will be one event in Mississauga ON (October 22) and one event in Delta BC (October 15).</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #ff0000;"><strong><em>You don't need to be a member to attend - simply</em> <a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm?DocID=Login&goto=index%2Ecfm%3FDocID%3D14556">REGISTER ONLINE</a> <em>as a guest and follow the instructions. </em></strong></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #ff0000;"><strong><em></em></strong> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; color: #ff0000;"><strong><em>Non-member cost is just $165 before October 1.</em></strong></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">* Also open to those in related industries</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"> </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">I look forward to seeing you there !</p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style=""><span style="font-family: Arial;">Sandi Gerrard</span></strong></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><a href="http://www.canadianredesigners.org/index.cfm/10000/Home"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: #800080;">Canadian ReDesigners Association</span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style=""><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> </p> </div> Sandi Gerrard Wed, 07 Sep 2011 09:51:26 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2494738/professional-development-for-home-stagers-