Via Organizing: Redesign and Staging
- sammi140
- Feb 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 17
Redesigning spaces is not just one of my passions; it's a transformative experience that can breathe new life into any home. Inspired by Val Sharp's insightful book, The Art of Redesign, and the course I completed with the Canadian Redesigners Association, I discovered how to reinvent spaces using items already at hand. Combining my love for organizing and decorating, I thrive in making rooms feel defined and inviting. The skills gained from redesign also play a crucial role in staging homes for sale, effectively turning them into appealing showcases for potential buyers.
What is Redesign?
For example, by moving a sofa from one wall to another and adding a few cushions, a dull living room can feel entirely new. Homes that utilize effective redesign techniques can increase in aesthetic value substantially, making the approach both efficient and budget-friendly.
Key Insights
Redesign has been a cornerstone in my transformation journey. One key takeaway is to maintain an open mind. Sharp encourages creativity and the inclination to think outside the box. For instance, a chair meant for the living room can find a stylish new spot in a bedroom or hallway. Each piece can shine brightly in a new role, and I embrace this adventurous mindset.
Another significant insight is the power of storytelling in design. Each room conveys a narrative, and how you arrange items should reflect that story. For example, when redesigning a family room, I often think about the cherished moments shared there. By incorporating items that resonate emotionally—like family photographs or travel souvenirs—the space becomes cohesive and inviting.
The Role of the Canadian Redesigners Association
This community connected like-minded redesigners, providing resources that encouraged creative thinking. Members would share success stories. For instance, at one workshop, I remember a participant showcasing how she transformed her dining room with just three existing pieces: a table, a set of mismatched chairs, and a lamp. The arrangement and a fresh coat of paint turned an uninspired room into a vibrant dining space, showing perfectly, the potential of redesign.
Unfortunately this association has closed since I took the course. In my opinion, I believe it is because people just group redesign in with decorating/designing now, but completely disregard that fact that we do not have to spend thousands to update a space. Our society makes us believe we always need new things to make our home better… that’s consumerism for you.
The Art of Shopping Your Home's Inventory
One of the delights of redesign is “shopping” your own home. I enjoy the treasure hunt of finding items that can be reimagined. A plain side table can become a stylish nightstand with a splash of paint. By stacking and arranging books differently, a simple collection can become a decorative focal point.
Picture this: you dig through storage and discover an old vase you forgot about. Bringing it into your living room introduces nostalgia and warmth, making the space feel personal yet newly revitalized. Not only does this process save money, it enhances the emotional connection to your home.
How Redesign and Staging Go Hand in Hand
Redesign plays a crucial role in staging, especially in the real estate market. A well-staged home can stand out, drawing in potential buyers who are eager to visualize themselves in the space.
When staging a home, I focus on crafting an inviting atmosphere. This involves decluttering and repositioning furniture to emphasize the home's best features. For example, in a cramped living room, removing excess furniture opens the space, allowing natural light to flow and creating an inviting area for buyers.
Staging doesn’t simply aim for aesthetic beauty; it emphasizes functionality. I make deliberate choices about showcased furnishings, ensuring every room serves a purpose.
My Redesign-Staging Process
Simply put, I identify and enhance each room's most marketable features by strategically placing furniture, art and accessories to highlight the home's selling features. Using my knowledge of Interior Decorating, I make sure everything is visually appealing. I reduce and/or eliminate distractions, for example, clutter and personal belongings. Making sure to identify areas needing attention and repair so they can be corrected.
The Effect: This increases the homes appeal to a wider range of potential buyers.
The Result: The home is sold quickly and for the best price.
Getting Fast Results with Redesign
One of the most satisfying aspects of redesign is how quickly results can be achieved. Within just a few hours, a neglected corner can be transformed into a cozy reading nook or a dull living room can turn into an engaging entertainment area.
The speed of redesign comes from efficiently using existing items and having a clear vision. Dedicating time to redesign can make daily living spaces feel alive and dynamic.
The Joy of Transforming Spaces
Redesigning and staging offer profound personal satisfaction and create warm, welcoming environments. Whether I’m refreshing my home or preparing a space for sale, the principles offered from my experiences with the Canadian Redesigners Association have proven invaluable.
I urge anyone interested in home design to start exploring the potential within their own spaces. By shopping your inventory and embracing creative ideas, you can embark on a journey that transforms your spaces meaningfully and functionally.
So, whether it’s that neglected vase or a room that needs an update, embrace the journey of transformation. The process of redesigning spaces can be enjoyable and fulfilling.
If you need help doing this, check out my rates and consider hiring me!
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