Category Archives: Recent Projects

As I Sit in a Parade of Homes Model…….

I’m sitting in a Parade of Homes model, not as an agent to try sell it but just hanging out as my photographer takes photos of my staging work. As I sit here I have time to actually look around and take in things that I normally wouldn’t see as I am flying around putting beds together and staging the home.

I got to thinking that people coming to view the Parade models are in the same way, not that they are staging and working but there is just so much to see! The beautiful decor, the exquisite architectural features, and at the same time trying to not make eye contact with the builder or agent so that they give you a sales pitch, ha.

But I must say look around…..really look around. If you are there for ideas to renovate your home, or update your decor, or perhaps to build a home, really pay attention.

What are the paint colors? Light? Dark? Is every room painted a different color or is everything basically the same?

What about the floors? Where are there hardwoods? Carpet? LVT or Tile? What is the stain color of the hardwoods.

I do think light fixtures are so important in a home and can make such a difference whether selling or dwelling. Take a close look at them, their size, style, and finish.

If you want to drill in to the nuances of the decor now is the perfect time!! How did they make a space look so homey and cozy yet perhaps elegant at the same time.

You may ask why do I care? Well I am a believer that no matter how old your home is, it can look like a model home when you go to sell it. Things can be current, in good repair, light and bright and enticing to all who enter in.

The Parade of Homes in Minneapolis runs through Sept 29, 2019 and you can check this particular home out in Plymouth at Parade #251.

One Level Living – Not Just for 55+

Yes it is in demand! From the 55+ market to young families, more and more people are looking to one level living for ease.

It’s not for everyone. In our area many of the one level living homes have one bedroom on the main level plus will have a full lower level with one to three bedrooms. This may not work for a family with infants or young children as parents will want the kiddo’s bedrooms on the same floor theirs.

Many one level living homes however have at least two bedrooms on the main level if not three.

I recently staged a model home that is one level living with one common wall. A townhome so to speak. These are higher end and due to the townhome setting are more likely to appeal to the 55+ who wants the one level living but not give up the space or luxury. These would also appeal to young professionals who want the luxury but not the hassle of maintaining a yard.

Most of the 55+ townhomes will have a wonderful open concept that is great for just you or for gatherings of friends.

The entrance to the Master will be convenient off the main living area.

You will many times find a second bedroom on that main living level that is wonderful to use as an office if that fits your lifestyle better.

If you are lucky it may even have a wonderful sun porch!

Although two story homes are still being built everywhere, more and more you are seeing one level living Townhomes and Ramblers being built and in demand. If that is the lifestyle that appeals to you, take the time to see what is available.

A Laundry Room Makeover

In my previous post I showed the incredible transformation of a mudroom. Check out “A Mudroom Makeover” if you missed it. Now I want to show the transformation of the laundry room right next door that was done at the same time.

Laundry rooms do not need to be boring and just for function. In fact, in home sales buyers are loving having a laundry room that doesn’t feel like a dungeon and can make laundry time not seem like such a chore.

The mudroom looking into the laundry before:

The entrance alone makes a statement now!

A very dated and underwhelming laundry room was the starting point.

Not many words are needed to explain this after shot!

The basic footprint was kept so moving the plumbing was not an issue and saved a lot of money.

Who says a laundry room light fixture has to be boring??

Cabinets were added to not only hide clutter but to give the homeowner so much storage!

The floating shelves added charm and character so there just wasn’t two walls of cabinets.

Check out the rolling utility cart for the dirty laundry! The homeowner found that online at ULine and it is perfect.

The decor items add warmth and personality to the space, especially by adding family photos.

And shall I just say “that paint color!!” I am so happy the homeowner’s were open to a something different. The color is Drizzle by Sherwin Williams and is one of my favorites. It’s such a happy color and what better place for a little cheer than in the laundry room!

If you are selling your home in the next few months a renovation like this is not something you want to do. (But you will want to remove the wallpaper and paint). If you are staying in your home for a couple years then go ahead and update it now, enjoy it and then bowl over the buyers when you put it on the market. This laundry room will be a huge selling feature!

Always get expert advice from a Home Stager or Designer whenever making updates to your home for the best return on your investment.