Seller
4 min read
Written by
James
Published on
January 22, 2024
Bare walls may feel like a safe bet when preparing your home for the market, but they're a missed opportunity. Empty expanses don't just scream "sterile"; they leave potential buyers struggling to envision themselves in the space. Enter the transformative power of artwork, mirrors, and pictures – strategic splashes of personality that can turn plain walls into powerful value-adders. Here's our Ideas for decorating your house that will amplify your home's worth.
Interested in more ways to add value to your home? It's really important to assess your neighbourhood before renovating. Check out our 5 key points on how to understand the layout and trends that sell in your neighbourhood The Psychology of Arty Appeal: Studies by the University of Surrey reveal that artwork positively influences how buyers perceive a home. Well-chosen pieces create a welcoming atmosphere, sparking imagination and emotional connection. They whisper stories about your taste and invite viewers to picture themselves inhabiting the space, surrounded by beauty. Finding the Sweet Spot: But don't unleash a cacophony of clashing colors or overwhelming themes. Striking the perfect balance is key. Avoid jarring pieces that scream "garage sale" and instead, curate a selection that complements the existing vibe of the room. When decorating your house creata harmonious visual conversation where artwork echoes the room's colour palette and subtly plays off textures. The Value-Boosting Palette:
Specific elements can significantly enhance the impact of your wall décor: Colour Coordination: Choose artwork, photographs, or prints that echo the main color palette of the room, creating a cohesive flow and emphasizing its spaciousness. A calming blue bedroom might benefit from serene seascapes, while a vibrant living room could be energised by abstract pieces with pops of the dominant color. Theme Playful: Don't be afraid to introduce subtle thematic elements that resonate with the room's purpose. A cozy kitchen might benefit from charming still lifes, while a home office could be invigorated by inspiring landscapes or motivational quotes. Quality Matters: While original artwork can be a smart investment, don't underestimate the power of high-quality prints, posters, or even well-chosen family photos. The key is selecting pieces that showcase craftsmanship and attention to detail. Mirrored Marvels: Mirrors aren't just for vanity; they're strategic tools for boosting perceived space and light. A strategically placed mirror can reflect a beautiful garden view, double the natural light in a room, or create an illusion of spaciousness in a narrow hallway. Just remember, avoid placing mirrors directly opposite windows, as it can create an unnerving echo effect.
We dive into what work well in each room below.
Kitchens: The kitchen is the heart of the home, and wall décor here should evoke warmth and hospitality:
Art Themes: Opt for food-related art like vintage food advertisements, framed recipes, or still-life paintings of fruits and vegetables.
Practicality: Consider chalkboards for menus or family notes, which blend functionality with charm.
Material Matters: Use materials that withstand kitchen conditions, like metal, glass, or treated canvas.
Bedrooms Bedrooms should be a sanctuary of relaxation and comfort:
Calming Colours: Choose artwork in soothing colours like soft blues, greens, or neutral tones.
Personal Touch: Display personal photographs or artwork that has sentimental value.
Mirrors: Position mirrors to reflect natural light, making the room feel larger and brighter.
Hallways: Hallways are transitional spaces that offer an opportunity for creative expression:
Gallery Walls: Use hallways for gallery walls displaying family photos, travel souvenirs, or a mix of your favourite art pieces.
Play with Height: Hang artworks at different heights to create interest and draw the eye through the space.
Toilets: Though often overlooked, toilets can be enhanced with thoughtful décor:
Small-Scale Art: Opt for smaller pieces of art or humorous prints that can become conversation starters.
Themes: Nautical or botanical themes work well, offering a fresh, clean aesthetic.
Living Rooms:Living rooms are where families gather and guests are entertained, so the décor here should be engaging:
Statement Pieces: Choose large, eye-catching pieces that can be conversation starters.
Balance and Harmony: Ensure the artwork complements the room's color scheme and furniture style.
Mirrors and Light: Use mirrors to amplify natural light and give an airier feel to the living space.
Dive into Wall Panelling! We look at How Wall Panelling Can Increase Your House Value
The Bigger Picture: Remember, wall décor is just one piece of the puzzle when decorating your house. Ensure it seamlessly integrates with other decorative elements like furniture, rugs, and throws. Lighting also plays a crucial role. Strategically placed spotlights or lamps can highlight your artwork and mirrors, turning them into captivating focal points. Beyond Aesthetics: The Return on Investment: The payoff of embracing artful walls goes beyond aesthetics. Studies by the National Association of Realtors show that strategically placed artwork and well-chosen wall décor can increase a home's value by up to 6%. That's a significant return on investment for a relatively modest outlay. So, ditch the bare walls and embrace the transformative power of art, mirrors, and pictures. By creating a visually engaging and emotionally resonant space, you'll not only make your home feel more welcoming, but you'll also be sending a clear message to potential buyers: This is a place where life unfolds with beauty and personality. Let your walls whisper stories, and watch your home's value blossom alongside.
If you’re looking to sell a house without an agent, 4walls is the platform for you. Simple, Easy and Transparent. Get in touch & Sell Your Own Home. We only need an address to start your valuation.
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