Dumpster-What?  Yes, I must admit that we are not too proud to pass up great potential furniture that has been left by the side of the dumpster. 

IRIS National Capitol Area members (and soon to be new chapter) have finished their second apartment makeover for the Patrick Henry Shelter House in Falls Church, VA.  Key to this project was stretching the bare bones budget by using donated materials and furnishings and finding freebies through craigslist (yes, it is supposed to be lower case) and Freecycle.  That also included keeping sharp eyes out for 'potentials" which brings us to the dumpster diving part.  One particularly nice "potential"piece was found next to a dumpster by one of our members.  It was an old Ballard Design low cabinet with two drawers and only one of its two doors.  The narrow piece was perfect for the small apartment and creative eyes saw its reincarnation into a small bookcase.

So what does this have to do with staging a home to sell? 

Most sellers are on a tight budget, particularly in this economy.  That budget must cover repairs and cosmetic fixes like painting.  Once it comes to actual staging, the budget may be next to nothing.  I'm not suggesting that everyone should start hanging out at their local dumpsters looking for treasure like this, but to take a look at what the homeowner may be ready to throw out in their quest to pare down for their move.  Often furniture with potential ends up in the trash because no one has recognized its value.  As redesigners and stagers we can offer our clients this additional service-using our creativity to save them from wasting resources but also showing them how to use reclaimed furnishings in decoratively functional ways.  It's another way to be green in our businesses and to show homeowners how to be green in their decor.

To see the video of the family room/dining area redesign, please click here or cut and past the link below:

http://www.realestateshows.com/392976