Staging your home could open the door for buyers and sellers in more ways than one. Home staging could mean decorating, furnishing and even painting an empty home that is on the market. Staging a home has been referred to as an art form and is usually used as a way to help sellers and buyers understand the possibilities that a home offers.
It is difficult for a buyer to imagine raising a family or spending a cozy holiday in a vacant space. Therefore, home staging allows buyers to imagine what their home could be. Additionally, if a room is staged well that can help a seller pitch the idea of the space as a home. The impersonal feel of an empty house can be quelled by the right coat of paint, properly arranged furniture, and other final touches, such as decor.
1. Organize and avoid clutter. This will make it easier for a potential buyer to see themselves living in the home.
2. Think fresh and light. Keep blinds and curtains open to let in as much natural light as possible. Also, if any of the rooms in the home are painted a deep exotic or bright neon color then it is best to neutralize each room by having walls painted a nice warm color.
3. Update and repair. Take note of any noticeable or large fixes that need to be made and take care of them early.
4. Don’t forget the exterior. The first impression a potential home buyer will have of a house will be of the exterior, so nice curb appeal is important.
5. The price is worth it. The average cost of a complete staging project is usually much less than your first price reduction. Statistically, homes that have been properly prepared for the market sell before a price reduction is needed.
6. Decorating and staging are almost complete opposites. Decorating involves putting the existing homeowners’ tastes and styles into the house, making it personal. Staging involves taking one’s personality out of the house, so the decor is neutral and appealing to the broadest range of potential home buyers.
7. It is best to have your house staged first and then have it listed. Think of the importance of first impressions. The greatest buzz about a house is generated when it is first listed.
8. Although new to the television circuit, home staging has actually been around since the 1970s. In some areas of the country, home staging is as common as open houses. The central states are starting to recognize the value of a staged home, not because it is trendy, but because it works!
9. Do emphasize the upscale and custom features of a home with staging, but DON’T overdo it. Keep it clean lines and simple.
10. Don’t place furnishings or decor that block light or views. Do stage the home with tasteful furnishings and make it easy for prospective buyers to walk straight to amazing ocean, mountain, or island views.
Photos courtesy of Krisztina Bell, No Vacancy Home Staging
Canada’s cool climate is yielding to hot markets, attracting buyers from around the world.
Agents showing Canadian real estate agree that areas such as Cambridge, Central Toronto, Nova Scotia, and Downtown Montreal and are appealing to buyers and families from all over the world. Their proximity to accommodating cities and the suburban feel are attracting a plethora of buyers, and these regions are only expected to grow.
Attracting buyers to the province of Nova Scotia, Mariana Cowan of Coldwell Banker Supercity speaks to the area’s growth. “With 878 parks, 33 beaches, 532 trails and pathways, universities, research and development, Nova Scotia is a great place to invest. Sales in July 2018 were the best they’ve been in six years,” she says.
Amy Assaad of Royal LePage Heritage in the Downtown Montreal and Westmount area explains that buyers there do not necessarily fit into a specific demographic. “Many properties are within walking distance to Mount Royal, but are also close in proximity to the city,” says Assaad. The variety of opportunities are attracting “many local buyers and foreigners, especially from the United States,” she says.
For Assaad, a considerable draw for buyers is The Golden Square Mile, which has been compared to New York City’s 5th Avenue. “The Golden Square Mile offers fine art museums, 5-star restaurants, endless shopping, and Mount Royal,” she says. In Cowan’s province, “You can have the seaside lifestyle that Nova Scotia is famous for, and be within minutes of our capital city of Halifax,” according to Cowan. Assaad also explains how growth is in the future. “The architecture in the area is already beautiful, and it will continue to increase in value,” she says.
With a slightly different view, Susan Macarz of RE/MAX Ultimate Realty Toronto, Ontario contends that those buying Canadian real estate do fit into a certain demographic. “Most are successful in business, whether immigrating or moving up.” Although that does not limit those suited to buy in the area. Buyers hailing from a diverse range of cultures come seeking financial independence, according to Macarz.
“Buyers come from all over the globe,” Macarz says, without neglecting her local clients. “There are also many Torontonians that are moving up and desire a country home, or a larger home for their family,” she says.
Steve Bailey of RE/MAX Real Estate Center in Cambridge, Ontario also notes that the diversity among buyers is a selling point, especially for those coming from the Greater Toronto Area. “I think what it really boils down to is that all of these cities are great places to live, work and raise a family. Each is a diverse and thriving community with a unique blend of urban and rural areas,” he says.
Similar to Assaad and Macarz, Bailey agrees that the area accommodates many different types of buyers. “We have a lot of manufacturing locally, which supports many of the families we have in the region. And we have a lot of professionals who commute out of the city,” says Bailey. “It really creates a wonderful blend of people and personalities.”
Photos courtesy of Steve Bailey. Rendering courtesy of Amy Assaad
This originally appeared in Unique Homes Fall ’18
Photo by Rich Montalbano
Mid-Century Modern design came onto the scene before color television. But rather than appearing antiquated today, it inspires contemporary designers and homebuyers.
The popularity of Mid-Century Modern design continues to accelerate, confirmation that the masters who introduced the look in the ’40s and ’50s were visionary innovators. Decades later, the work of those architects, interior designers and furniture makers still appears fresh, and current expressions of modernism invariably build on the mid-century movement.
Sam Lubell, a leading authority on Mid-Century Modern design, whose books include Mid-Century Modern Travel Guide: West Coast USA and California Captured, believes the genre’s enduring appeal can be attributed to simple, elegant aesthetics, the success in reducing architecture to its most basic elements, and nostalgia. “Mid-Century Modern is a blend of technology, simplicity and a style that’s very ‘cool,’ for lack of a better word, enhancing people’s appreciation of it,” says Lubell. The writer suggests that vintage photographs from the era reveal how truly revolutionary Mid-Century Modern architects were. “Cars in the photos appear to have nothing to do with the houses. It’s hard to describe just how radical and ahead of their time they were,” he observes.
In the U.S., passions for Mid-Century Modern residential design burned first and most intensely in and around Los Angeles, responding to trends already underway in Europe, but not so elegantly applied to single-family residences. In a city where challenging established convention was not discouraged, disciples of Frank Lloyd Wright — pioneering architects Rudolph Schindler, Richard Neutra and John Lautner — transformed residential aesthetics and attitudes.
The genesis of Mid-Century Modernism may have occurred in the City of Angels, but today’s epicenter of the style is Palm Springs, the desert resort city 100 miles east of L.A. Practically the entire municipality is a living museum of mid-century design, and that signature aesthetic has become as much a tourist attraction as Palm Springs’ legendary golf, tennis and shopping.
Every February, the community celebrates its architectural legacy with Modernism Week, where architects, designers and collectors from around the world draw inspiration from home tours, seminars, film screenings, and receptions in famous settings that include not just residences, but Mid-Century Modern hotels and restaurants.
Lisa Vossler Smith, who served as a volunteer for Modernism Week when it debuted in 2006 and was named executive director five years ago, reports the 2018 edition drew 126,000 people from 15 countries, more than double the attendance in 2015. She has observed an ever-increasing commitment by local residents to embrace their city’s architectural heritage and believes Modernism Week has profoundly influenced preservation efforts in Palm Springs and beyond. “Our goal is to educate visitors, so they can take back what they’ve learned to their own communities,” says Vossler Smith, who actively supports similar events across the country.
Vossler Smith insists the fascination with Mid-Century Modern design is multigenerational, while conceding popular shows like Mad Men have contributed to the genre’s hip factor. “Clearly, there’s a sense of nostalgia for the baby boomer generation, but we find younger homebuyers are also attracted by the more simplistic, minimalistic lifestyle offered by these homes,” she says. “We’re now starting to explore new building projects informed by the mid-century design period,” says Modernism Week’s executive director, noting the influence of trailblazers such as Neutra and Schindler is evident in contemporary modern architecture.
While Vossler Smith admits Mid-Century Modernism is ideally suited to Southern California, she reports outstanding examples from the era are plentiful in places like Denver, Phoenix and Chicago. In Denver, real estate broker Adrian Kinney is a local expert on Mid-Century Modern homes, and his personal renovation of a Cliff May-designed residence reinforced his enthusiasm for quality design from that period. Finding some modernism too austere, Kinney was delighted to discover the warmth that many mid-century architects, like May, brought to their craft. “The more I learned, the more I wanted to educate everyone about what this modernism thing was all about!,” says the real estate professional.
“Buyers of Mid-Century Modern properties range from boomers to millennials, all wanting something different, functional and livable, with a sense of character,” says Kinney, who co-founded Denver’s own Modernism Show to draw attention to the Mile High City’s architectural assets. “After attending Palm Springs’ Modernism Week many times, I knew Denver needed to have one,” he says. Identifying more than 6,000 Mid-Century Modern homes in metro Denver, Kinney declares, “I want to showcase these to the world.”
Best known for its sugar-white beaches, the Gulf Coast city of Sarasota, Florida, shares a rich Mid-Century Modern heritage. Local broker Martie Lieberman of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is recognized by both the real estate and architectural communities as an authority on the “Sarasota School of Architecture.”
Lieberman, who co-founded the Sarasota Architectural Foundation, is passionate about Mid-Century Modern homes and has made the sale of those properties her specialty. Observing that many houses from the Sarasota School elicit a sense of delight at first glance, she suggests the interiors are equally impactful. “You’ll see some of the most sophisticated uses of space and light, which most people have never experienced,” she insists.
Architects like Paul Rudolph and Victor Lundy created low-slung, glass-ensconced homes that were a dramatic departure from the prevailing Mediterranean style, explains Lieberman, noting they attracted idealistic young designers to Sarasota in the ’50s and ’60s. “They thought they would change the world with their new ideas, new materials and a new architecture,” she says. According to the niche broker, newcomers to Sarasota are quickly won over by the community’s architectural legacy, and Lieberman reports that significant Mid-Century Modern homes can command premiums of 15 to 35 percent.
A prefabricated home designed by legendary Mid-Century architect Cliff May, erected in 1955 in Denver.
Real estate broker Adrian Kinney restored this 1955 Cliff May property in Denver, fueling his passion for mid-century design.
Photos by Atom Stevens
Function and practicality are balanced with quality fabrics, exciting designs and an overall sense of style in the robe collections offered at SoffiaB and Julianna Rae.
Function and practicality are balanced with quality fabrics, exciting designs and an overall sense of style in the robe collections offered at SoffiaB and Julianna Rae.
In 2012, SoffiaB was created by British designer Sophie Burkart after she realized that her search for a stylish and comfortable robe was limited. Burkart’s luxury robes and dressing gowns are crafted in New York’s iconic garment district with a special attention to detail and a sophisticated style.
Burkart also realized that it was difficult to find a robe that works in more than one season. However, five collections offered at SoffiaB have soft cotton linings to accommodate more versatile climates. For example, the Delphine, Delphine Shortie and Hermione collections are silk charmeuse lined with feather-light, sea island cotton.
- The Hermione Shortie Collection was designed for warmer weather and falls on or around the knee when worn.
- The Persephone Collection was designed for Autumn/Winter and is slightly longer, making it fashionable and chic.
- The Delphine Collection is the Spring-inspired collection of full-length silk robes that are accented with printed silk.
- The Delphine Shortie Collection is a collection of shorter, knee-length robes.
- The Daphne Collection is the original Winter-inspired collection of full-length silk robes. They are lined with brushed ultra-soft cotton with rich velvet accents.
Julianna Rae is another luxury brand that keeps real women in mind. The brand ensures original designs that are crafted with top-quality materials and a particular attention for detail.
A Julianna Rae spokesperson describes the Ariadne Silk Robe as “a sumptuous full-length robe made from mulberry silk. It has a gorgeous pleated collar and pleated cuffs.”
The Moonlight Serenade Silk Short Robe is a shorter robe made from our gorgeous silk and rich European Leavers lace on the sleeves. The lace is what really sets this robe apart — it’s wonderfully detailed and enhanced even further by the pattern our designers have cut from the lace to make the cuffs on the sleeves, according to a Julianna Rae spokesperson.
Luxury robes are the perfect holiday gift or addition to your wardrobe. These two brands offer a mix of styles and fabrics that may make your holiday shopping that much easier.
Photos courtesy of SoffiaB – Jason Miller, Pixelate Photography & photo courtesy of Julianna Rae
Emerging from the exclusive realm of off-market listings, the recently listed The Mountain site is turning the heads of buyers, sellers and Realtors with its record-setting list price of $1 billion. Minutes from the Beverly Hills Hotel and Rodeo Drive, this 157-acre hilltop location has been transformed into the world’s most exclusive and private residential real estate compound.
The property, currently owned by Secured Capital Partners, was consolidated from 17 multiple parcels into “one large real estate diamond,” according to Ronald Richards, legal counsel and spokesperson for Secured Capital Partners. Aaron Kirman, president of Pacific Union International, Estates Division and the listing agent for The Mountain, affirms that no other property with these possibilities exists any place close to Beverly Hills. “This is the only opportunity to own your own mountain that looks down at all of Los Angeles. Our likely buyer for this property is an individual who wants to build his or her own compound,” says Kirman.
The compound is the size of a small city, with six parcels that are made ready to build and have unobstructed views that range from downtown Los Angeles to Catalina Island and Santa Monica. With the amount of space to fit the entirety of Disneyland, and 57 acres to spare, the buyer will be able to build three buildings up to 500,000 square feet and up to 53 feet high, with the nearest neighbor a half-mile away.
In order to perpetuate exclusivity, invaluable amounts of time and effort have been spent to make this one of the most private properties in the country. More than 500 trees and 5,000 smaller plants have been transplanted to the property, along with a massive 16-foot-tall custom security gate.
Other renovations made to the property were outfitted as preparations for development, but still leave the land open to suggestion. Stone aggregate roads lead to a hand-selected cobblestone drive, as well as a sculpture court accented by a full-length water feature. An in-depth landscape lighting design exists throughout the property, as well as a storm drain system, a booster system for fire hydrants and a backup generator.
“To be able to claim ownership of the largest property at the highest point in all Los Angeles, will make the buyer the most prestigious billionaire overnight,” says Richards.
SMEG and Dolce & Gabbana — two prominent brands in the world of luxury — have come together and taken kitchen appliances to a whole new level.
Fun, vibrant, unique and sure to start a conversation are just a few ways to describe the new special collection, titled “Sicily is my love.” The line includes coffee makers, hand blenders, toasters, citrus juicers, electric kettles and mixers, and more.
Dolce & Gabbana and SMEG continue the journey that joins their artistic sensibilities to discover the colors and beauty of Sicily to celebrate the authentically ‘Made in Italy’ project under the shared standard of creativity, art, and design. A revolutionary collaboration that has created a new perception of home appliance, no longer mere products, but true works of art.
Photos courtesy of SMEG and Dolce & Gabbana
The residents of Berkeley Heights, New Jersey are welcoming a new restaurant called Grain & Cane that has been inspired by traditional rice bags and offers a classic but enticing menu.
The new addition to Berkeley Heights is owned by the Connell family — who at one point was the largest non-governmental rice and sugar distributor in the world. Grain & Cane is the place where you might choose a quiet corner for an intimate evening or a cozy lunch date. It’s also the restaurant that you and your family might want to visit for a special celebration. The atmosphere is a unique combination of comfortable and chic, which makes it suitable for more than one type of occasion. There’s a distinct classic feeling.
The floor-to-ceiling, weathered-looking graffiti draws the mind to traditional rice bags — the inspiration behind the restaurants’ decor. This style even includes using recycled rice bags as stool seat covers and of course some well-known brands and logos.Exposed brick walls and steel columns also draw on the family’s grain storage facilities. Tufted leather seating and custom banquettes are reminiscent of grandfather Grover Connell’s time in Paris, according to the Grain & Cane team. The main focus of the bar is the custom Solari board, which actually serves as the bar. It was once used for posting grain prices on the trading floor. Making this aspect even more special are the rotating specials and inspirational quotes from Connell, such as, “Cheer up, things could be worse. So he cheered up and things did get worse.” There’s also a two-story back bar for guests to enjoy.
The menu has a refreshing variety of choices — without overwhelming guests — and known favorites. Traditional headlines, such as Burgers and Pizza, are splashed across the menu and instantly draw you in. Modern touches and complex flavors mix with classic at Grain & Cane
White, sausage, and margarita seem like standard pizzas, but the sourdough crust is a charming twist. A burger may sound simple, but the falafel burger with hummus and avocado tzatziki and the Scottish salmon with chanterelle mushrooms, roasted potatoes, peas, and crispy prosciutto are just a hint of the surprises on the menu.
Don’t expect the menu to stay the same for too long though. The restaurant has a menu that changes with the seasons and focuses on fresh ingredients from local farms and is peppered with items inspired by the Connell family’s favorite dishes.
Making Grain & Cane truly stand out among tradition is their traveling food truck. According to the Grain & Cane team, the food truck allows the restaurant to park in different areas around town and reach a whole new set of customers and also introducing dishes to new communities.
Photos courtesy of Grain & Cane, by Oleg March
Enjoy stunning fall colors, gorgeous views, endless amenities, and satisfying food at these luxury destinations!
It’s that time of the year to break out the hot cocoa, comfy sweaters, and pumpkin flavored everything. The season of holidays, romantic getaways, family gatherings and more is officially here. Three top fall destinations will have you booking your next vacation before the leaves hit the ground.
The Ranch at Rock Creek
Five-star Guest Ranch – Philipsburg, Montana
“The first thing that stands out when you arrive is the natural beauty and privacy of The Ranch at Rock Creek, which is situated on 10 square miles of wilderness and surrounded by the Sapphire, John Long and Pintler mountains. Add that a river runs through it and you are transported back in time to a more simple way of life, rugged yet unhurried,” says Carol Ann Kelley-Elwell, the director of marketing and media relations at The Ranch at Rock Creek.
This destination is the perfect mix of Western adventure — horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing — and all-inclusive luxury. From the spa and the gourmet dining to the custom duvet covers, you’ll enjoy every careful detail.
Why is this a luxury fall destination?
“The brilliant colors and cooler temperatures make for exhilarating days and cozy fireside evenings,” says Kelley-Elwell. “The ambiance and décor of the historic barns, granite lodge, riverfront canvas cabins and log homes make for the perfect fall escape for all ages.”
Photos courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek
Topping Rose House
Haven in The Hamptons – Bridgehampton, New York
“The first thing people recognize about Topping Rose House is the timeless design of the colonial manor,” says Joseph Montag, the general manager of Topping Rose House.
Tradition and history meet new and luxurious at this haven in The Hamptons. “The blend of historical and contemporary design is unique to this property in the Hamptons,” says Montag. This luxury hotel is surrounded by gorgeous grounds and offers exhilarating activities, including hiking, nature walks, golf courses, tennis clubs, and a mix of beaches. “The fall is actually the most consistent weather season of the year. There is little rain and the brisk breeze coming off the ocean gives an ideal climate and beautiful scenery,” says Montag.
Amenities Offered
“The hotel has a swimming pool that is open to the public as well as a year-round Jean-Georges restaurant. The restaurant wraps around the front porch of the main house to provide a unique dining experience in the Hamptons,” says Montag. The hotel also has new Lexus cars that are available for guests, a pool and a spa.
Photos courtesy of Topping Rose House
Blantyre is a Tudor-style mansion and estate that was built in 1902 but has been seamlessly updated to the highest of standards. This retreat has an abundance of history that melds perfectly with fine and casual dining that adheres to a farm-to-table philosophy, a spa and vitality bar, hot air balloon rides, hiking and much more.
A Great Fall Destination
“The stunning and scenic 110 acres of the estate and the manor house is modeled after a Scottish castle,” according to a Blantyre spokesperson, making this an unforgettable fall destination.
“Blantyre offers unparalleled culinary experiences, including a classic French bistro, fine dining restaurant, and outdoor dining terrace, in addition to New England’s most extensive wine cellar with a private tasting room, and nearly 10,000 bottles,” according to a Blantyre spokesperson.
Photo courtesy of Blantyre Resort
Centerpieces are an additional detail that brings an overall sense of completion to a table or room.
As the holiday season approaches, menus, decor, and more are on everyone’s mind. This year, if you’re hosting a small army or having an intimate gathering, don’t forget your centerpiece. Artemest offers a world of luxury craftsmanship, and that includes a variety of centerpieces that will adorn holiday tables this year and more to come.
- Be Bold With Colors ($310)
Part of the Dogale collection and made from mouth-blown glass and silver plating, the Rosso Cardinale Centerpiece is the perfect pop of color. The Italian-crafted piece offers a sleek and elegant look that comes from the combination of shimmering glass and hand-brushed silver plating.
- Embrace Different ($730)
Designed by Gaetano Pesce in 1995 as part of the Fish Design collection, the Big Collina Extracolor Blue XL Centerpiece will stand out on any table. This large, blue bowl is fun and opens the door for creativity. Pile the bowl with a mountain of colorful fruit or gourds this fall or fill it with flowers for a beautiful centerpiece.
3. Start a Conversation ($3,770)
Designed by Afra and Tobia Scarpa, the Mania Bowl, is in the shape of two open hands. The bowl is made of 999/1000 pure silver and serves as a sculpture or a bowl. This kind of centerpiece is sure to start a conversation about art and decor as you sit down and enjoy your meal.
4. Stay Classic ($1,900)
The Intreccio Centerpiece by Adolfo Natalini is a call to ancient times. The use of Carrara marble, Green Alpi marble, Rosa Portogallo marble and the choice of colors are reminiscent of earlier and simpler times. The plate has a timeless aesthetic that will accent a variety of rooms.
- Modern Is Magic ($750)
Add a striking modern touch to your table with the Cartoccio Bowl by Afra and Tobia Scarpa. Don’t shy away from the pointed corners, they can be softened by the addition of colorful flowers and fruit. The natural shades of fruit will glow surrounded by sleek, reflective silver. Crafted from 999/1000 pure silver, the bowl is undeniably modern.
Photos courtesy of Artemest
Shop on www.artemest.com
Ditch overused gold and silver trends for charming copper hues that will add to your home’s modern, yet cozy atmosphere.
Copper’s versatility is why you should incorporate it into your decor this year. The range of shades, from pale soft tones to rich and deep copper allows for designers to work with a material and color that is complex. Silver and gold are classic, but copper is an exciting touch of diversity amongst tradition.
Copper Can Be Functional
The Hex Copper Bowl with a textured look and feel creates an eye-catching item that is unique and functional. The less-than-perfect surface of the bowl is what makes this piece interesting. The dents and bends in the metal create more than one shade of copper, which makes it more interesting than one smooth item.
Product: Hex Bowl Medium Copper
Copper as a Conversation Starter
The Tom Dixon Cast Shoe Copper is the perfect example of a playful way to bring copper into your decor. A conversation starter such as this would stand out perfectly against a navy blue wall or door. The item is cast iron, copper colored, and designed to be a door stop. This small accent piece could also help tie together other copper aspects in a room, including other shades of copper.
Product: Cast Shoe Copper
Ultra Sleek
The Copper Round Pendant is a perfect contrast to a rough copper bowl. The ultra sleek exterior of the pendant proves that copper is not restricted to a rustic feel. Reflective and chic, the pendant is also a conversation piece that will undoubtedly bring a modern feel to any room. Smooth and rough pieces can work together in the same space. Pairing these items is a creative way to reveal copper’s multiple layers.
Eclectic Addition
If you are interested in using new materials or fresh colors in a room, you don’t have to commit right away. Small items, such as these Eclectic Candle London Large are easily removed or changed if you’re undecided. Candles can also accent and play off of larger copper tones that you may integrate later. Small details are what makes a room feel complete and thoughtfully put together.
Product: Eclectic Candle London Large
Photos courtesy of Tom Dixon. Where to buy: tomdixon.net