Home Staging vs. Home Styling: What's the Difference?

When it comes to creating a beautiful home, you might have heard terms like “home staging” and “home styling” thrown around. While both focus on improving the aesthetics of a space, they serve very different purposes and are used in different contexts. Whether you're trying to sell your home or just refresh your living space, understanding the difference between home staging and home styling can help you make the right decision for your needs.

What is Home Staging?

Home staging is all about preparing a home for sale. When you’re selling a property, your goal is to make it as appealing as possible to a broad range of potential buyers. This is where home staging comes in. It involves strategically arranging furniture, decor, and even altering elements of the home to highlight its best features and downplay any potential flaws.

Key Features of Home Staging:

• Neutral Palette: Staging typically involves neutralizing the space so it appeals to as many buyers as possible. This means using soft, neutral tones for walls and furnishings, making the space feel clean, bright, and welcoming.

  
  

• Furniture Arrangement: Staging often includes renting furniture or rearranging existing pieces to make the space appear larger and more functional. It’s about creating an environment where potential buyers can envision themselves living.

  
  

• De-cluttering: Home staging involves removing personal items and excess decor. The idea is to create a blank canvas so buyers can picture themselves in the space, rather than feeling distracted by the current owner’s belongings.

  
  

• Curb Appeal: First impressions matter, so staging includes attention to the exterior of the home as well, making sure the front yard and entrance are welcoming.

  
  

• Temporary: Staging is usually a short-term solution, lasting just until the property is sold. Once the sale is complete, the staging setup is taken down.

Why is Home Staging Important? 

Home staging can help a property sell faster and, in many cases, for a higher price. According to real estate studies, well-staged homes tend to attract more potential buyers and can sell up to 73% faster than those that aren't staged. It’s all about making a lasting impression and helping buyers imagine themselves living in the space.

What is Home Styling?

On the other hand, home styling is focused on creating a cohesive, personalized look for your home, typically for your own enjoyment and comfort. Unlike staging, which is temporary and geared toward the goal of selling a property, styling is an ongoing process that reflects your personality, style, and lifestyle.

Key Features of Home Styling:

• Personalized Touch: Home styling is all about infusing your unique tastes and preferences into the space. This could mean incorporating bold colors, unique furniture pieces, or art that resonates with you.

  
  

• Functionality Meets Aesthetics: While style is important, functionality is also key in home styling. This involves choosing furniture, lighting, and accessories that not only look good but also work well in your everyday life.

  
  

• Accent Pieces and Accessories: Styling often includes using textiles like cushions, rugs, and throws, along with decorative pieces such as plants, books, or artwork. These elements make a home feel lived-in and cozy.

  
  

• Long-Term: Unlike staging, which is meant to be temporary, home styling is a long-term approach to decorating your home. It evolves with your personal tastes and lifestyle over time.

  
  

• No Time Pressure: Home styling is typically done without the pressure of needing to sell the space. It’s about creating a comfortable, functional home for yourself and your family.

  
  

Why is Home Styling Important?

Home styling enhances the overall atmosphere of your living space. It can make your home feel more welcoming, comfortable, and reflective of who you are. Whether it’s adding a splash of color to the walls or rearranging furniture to create a more inviting layout, home styling contributes to a better quality of life and a space you’re proud to call your own.

Home Staging and Home Styling by Reverie

If you're preparing to sell, Reverie offers home staging consultations and packages for occupied and unoccupied homes. Our goal is to help sell your home quickly and for the best price.

If you want to make your space feel cozy and stylish for you and your family, home styling is the perfect choice. We'll create a space that feels like home, reflects your personality, and improves quality of life.

Have a project in mind?

At Reverie, we work with homeowners, realtors, and builders. Whether you're selling a property or refreshing your home, contact us today to discuss customized options and pricing.