Finding Your Style
Finding Your Style
Finding Your Style: A Fun Journey Through Home Décor
Your home should feel like you—a place where you kick off your shoes, breathe easy, and maybe even dance around in your pajamas without judgment. While functionality is important (no one wants a sofa that looks great but feels like a rock), the way your space looks plays a huge role in how you feel.
Diving into interior design can be exciting, but let’s be honest—it can also be a little overwhelming. Do you go full-on palace mode with velvet and gold? Or do you embrace the minimalist life, pretending you don’t secretly hoard mismatched coffee mugs? No worries—I’ve got you covered. Let’s explore some of the most popular design styles so you can find your perfect match!
1. Victorian: Living Like Royalty (Or at Least Feeling Like It)
Think of Victorian style as the “more is more” approach. If intricate details, luxurious fabrics, and a touch of drama make your heart happy, this might be your vibe.
Ornate everything – Fancy moldings, carved furniture, and wallpaper that looks like it belongs in a historical drama.
Velvet, brocade, and rich fabrics – Because your curtains deserve to be just as fancy as your couch.
Deep, dramatic colors – Think emerald greens, sapphire blues, and regal reds. Because beige? Never heard of her.
2. Contemporary: Sleek, Chic, and Clutter-Free (Hopefully)
If you love clean lines, open spaces, and the kind of home where everything has its place (even if your socks don’t), contemporary style is for you.
Simple, sleek furniture – No frills, no fuss, just modern elegance.
Neutral color palettes – Whites, grays, and beiges keep things calm and airy.
Big windows = big happiness – Natural light is your best friend.
3. Eclectic: The “Why Pick One When You Can Have It All?” Style
If your home is filled with thrift store treasures, travel finds, and furniture that doesn’t necessarily “match” but somehow works, welcome to the eclectic club!
Mix-and-match magic – Vintage meets modern, bold patterns meet subtle textures.
A unifying color scheme – So things look intentional, not like a yard sale exploded.
A story behind every piece – “Oh this? I found it in a tiny shop in Paris…or was it Target?”
4. Mid-Century Modern: Retro, But Make It Cool
This style brings back those sleek, Mad Men-era vibes with warm wood tones and funky shapes.
Furniture with tapered legs – Because apparently, even couches want to look taller.
Practical meets stylish – Every piece is as useful as it is good-looking.
Bold pops of color – Mustard yellow, avocado green, and burnt orange for that vintage charm.
5. Bohemian: The “I Woke Up Like This” of Home Décor
Boho style is for free spirits who love color, texture, and lots of cozy layers.
Throw pillows everywhere – Seriously, you can never have too many.
Wicker, rattan, and macramé – Because Mother Earth approves.
Global influences – Moroccan rugs, Indian tapestries, and a little wanderlust in every corner.
6. Industrial: Edgy, Raw, and Effortlessly Cool
If exposed brick, metal accents, and warehouse vibes make your heart sing, this one’s for you.
Raw materials – Concrete, steel, and reclaimed wood for that “converted loft” feel.
Neutral, moody tones – Black, gray, and brown, with just enough light to keep it from looking like a cave.
Edison bulbs – Because regular light bulbs just aren’t cool enough.
7. Farmhouse: Cozy, Rustic, and Joanna Gaines Approved
This style is perfect if you dream of sipping sweet tea on a wraparound porch (even if you actually just drink coffee on your IKEA couch).
Shiplap everywhere – The wall treatment that took over Pinterest.
Reclaimed wood – Because new furniture just doesn’t have the same charm.
Soft, neutral tones – Whites, creams, and grays for that fresh, cozy vibe.
Beyond the Basics: More Styles to Love
Can’t decide? Here are a few more styles to explore:
Minimalist – The “less is more” lifestyle, perfect if you hate clutter.
Scandinavian – Minimalist, but with cozy vibes and lots of light wood.
Coastal – Light, breezy, and inspired by the beach (even if you live miles from the ocean).
Transitional – A perfect blend of classic and modern styles for a timeless look.
How to Find Your Style
The best way to figure out your style? Look around and see what excites you. Flip through magazines, scroll Pinterest, or take a mental inventory of homes you’ve loved. Pay attention to the colors, furniture, and little details that make you smile. And don’t be afraid to mix and match! The best homes are the ones that reflect you.
Most importantly—have fun with it! Your home should make you happy, whether that means a Victorian chandelier, a boho rug, or a minimalistic sofa you swear you totally don’t pile laundry on. So go ahead, experiment, and create a space that feels just right for you.
What Is Home Staging and Why Does It Matter?
Introduction
Home staging is the process of preparing a property for sale by making it visually appealing to potential buyers. It involves strategic placement of furniture, neutral décor, decluttering, and enhancing key features of the home. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 81% of buyers’ agents say that home staging makes it easier for buyers to visualize the property as their future home.
In today’s competitive real estate market, first impressions are everything. With buyers browsing online listings before ever setting foot in a property, a well-staged home can significantly increase interest and perceived value.
Why Home Staging Matters
1. Creates a Strong First Impression
A study by the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA) found that staged homes sell 73% faster than unstaged homes. First impressions are formed within 7-10 seconds, and staging ensures a home looks its best right from the entryway.
2. Helps Buyers Visualize the Space
Staging removes clutter and personal items, allowing potential buyers to imagine themselves in the home.
A 2023 NAR survey found that 49% of buyers’ agents said home staging had an effect on their clients’ perception of the home.
3. Highlights the Home’s Best Features
Strategic furniture placement can make rooms look more spacious and highlight architectural features.
Well-placed mirrors enhance natural light and create a sense of openness.
Fresh paint in neutral tones (like beige, soft gray, or off-white) appeals to a broader range of buyers.
4. Leads to Faster Sales
According to Redfin, staged homes sell 3-10% higher than unstaged homes.
The longer a home sits on the market, the more likely the seller will have to reduce the price. Staging speeds up the process by making the home more attractive from day one.
5. Increases Perceived and Actual Home Value
A well-staged home appears move-in ready, which makes buyers more willing to pay a premium price.
A study by the International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP) found that staged homes can increase sale prices by up to 20% compared to unstaged homes in the same market.
Key Elements of Effective Home Staging :
1. Decluttering & Deep Cleaning
A clutter-free home looks more spacious, clean, and inviting. Staging experts recommend:
Removing excess furniture to improve flow.
Storing away personal items, including family photos and memorabilia.
Ensuring all surfaces (countertops, shelves, and tables) are clean and free from unnecessary items.
2. Neutralizing Décor
Bold colors and personalized décor can limit a home’s appeal.
Neutral tones like beige, white, and soft gray create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to a broad audience.
Adding subtle decorative elements like throw pillows, fresh flowers, or an area rug enhances aesthetics without overwhelming the space.
3. Proper Furniture Placement
Arrange furniture to highlight the size and functionality of each room.
Avoid pushing all furniture against walls—creating cozy, conversational seating areas makes rooms feel more inviting.
Use mirrors to reflect light and make small spaces appear larger and brighter.
4. Lighting & Ambiance
Natural light is a key selling point. Open curtains and blinds to maximize brightness.
Use warm, inviting LED lighting in darker areas to enhance coziness.
Add table lamps or floor lamps for a layered lighting effect.
5. Curb Appeal & Entryway Enhancements
The front of the house should be clean, welcoming, and well-maintained.
Add fresh flowers, a new doormat, and a power-washed driveway to create a strong first impression.
Does Home Staging Really Work? Research & Case Studies
Case Study #1: Staged Homes Sell Faster
A 2022 report by Zillow found that staged homes sell 40% faster than unstaged homes. In a competitive market, this means sellers can avoid long waiting periods and price reductions.
Case Study #2: Higher Selling Prices
A study by the Home Staging Resource (HSR) revealed that staged homes sold for an average of 17% higher than their unstaged counterparts in the same neighborhood.
Case Study #3: Buyers Connect Emotionally
According to a Coldwell Banker survey, 80% of staged homes helped buyers emotionally connect with the property, increasing the likelihood of receiving offers quickly.
Final Thoughts: Is Home Staging Worth It?
Absolutely! Staging is an investment rather than an expense. Whether you're a homeowner looking to sell quickly or a real estate professional trying to maximize property value, staging can:
Attract more potential buyers.
Reduce the time on the market.
Increase the final sale price.
If you're considering selling your home, working with a professional home stager can make a significant difference. Ready to transform your space? Contact Rong-Ghor today for expert staging and décor services!