I stage many architecturally specific homes. Historical homes, Victorian homes, contemporary homes. mid-century modern and so on. But when I was called to stage this home it was a first.
Frank Lloyd Wright inspired with Japanese influences. Ahh....okay. That's a little different.
This home was built only a few years ago with very specific architecture as the owner lived many years in Japan and they were going to raise their children and grow old here. Making it in more unusual is that is sat in a neighborhood of 80 - 120 year old homes. Yup...different in the neighborhood is an understatement.
The high end luxury home made the cover of The Home Section of the Minneapolis Star Tribune because of of it's totally green features as well as just plan stunning. Take a look:
When I was called the home had been on the market for 3 months without a single offer. The owners were now relocating and all their furniture going with them. Having lived in Japan for many years much of their furniture was also Japanese style which worked for them but made it very tough for the average buyer, who didn't own Japanese pieces and Japan artwork, to think the home would work for them. Even the owners agreed it was creating a road block for potential buyers.
The inside of the home was sleek and very wide open. The main living area was huge and would be even harder for the buyer to visualize if it was vacant. What do you do with this huge space???
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You break it down into sections. It is your only choice.
First the entryway. As you can see you immediately come in and see exquisite Japanese inspired screen.
But if someone doesn't like Japanese then what? Let's make it appeal to the everyday buyer.
The rest of the interior was sleek and on the modern side with Frank Lloyd Wright windows etc.
Next section: The Main Living Area.
Of course The Dining Area right next to the kitchen.
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Off from the Dining Area, a place to converse when entertaining, A Sitting Area.
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Overall look of this taste specific home....taste specific no more.
RESULTS: Staged on Friday and Sold that weekend! Sellers....ECSTATIC!!
The moral of this story is although you have a taste specific architectural home, the furnishings don't have to be.
If you don't have a blank canvas like I did that's okay. If you have a Victorian Home is filled with Victorian furniture that most people won't own or won't like, simplify it. Bring in just a few modern pieces to mix it up so the buyer can see their own items working in the house.
A professional Home Stager will be able to give you the advice you need for any challenge you are facing in getting your home ready for sale.
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