The Power of Lighting in Home Staging

​In the world of home staging, each detail plays an important role, right from the selection of furniture to the color palette of the rooms. However, there's one aspect that often doesn't receive its due recognition - lighting. Today, we will shed some light on how to effectively use illumination to stage your property and attract potential buyers.

​Light Bulbs: The Key to Setting the Mood

​Understanding the subtleties of light color can make a world of difference in how your home is perceived. There are generally two types of light to consider: warm light and daylight bulbs.
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Warm light bulbs, often referred to as "soft white" with their yellow-orange hue, tend to evoke feelings of comfort and coziness. This makes them perfect for spaces like the living room, dining area, or bedrooms where you'd like to create an intimate, inviting ambiance.

On the other hand, daylight bulbs produce a bright, white light that mimics natural sunlight. They are excellent for spaces where you need clear visibility, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or workspaces. They also work wonders in modern or minimalist-style homes, where the goal is to create a clean, fresh atmosphere.

Illuminating Style: Where natural daylight meets thoughtful interior lighting to create a harmonious, inviting living room that potential buyers can't resist.

​Lamps vs. Standing Lamps: Lighting Options Galore

Lighting fixtures come in many forms, with each serving a different purpose. Lamps, both table and floor versions, are not just sources of light but also integral pieces of the room's decor. They can add character, contrast, or harmony to your space.
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Table lamps are great for task lighting - think reading corners or bedside tables. Standing lamps, on the other hand, can help illuminate larger areas and can even become focal points of the room, due to their stature and design.

​The Magic of Shears: Diffusing Light

​The use of shears to diffuse light can be a game-changer. Sheer curtains are a fantastic way to soften the natural light coming into a room and evenly disperse it, creating a welcoming, airy feeling. They're perfect for spaces where you want to strike a balance between privacy and letting in plenty of light.

Consistency is Key: Light Color Uniformity

​To create a flow in your staged home, consistency in light color is essential. A mix of warm and cool lights in the same area can create a confusing or disjointed look. So, make sure to use the same type of light bulb throughout each room for a harmonious feel.

​Brightness Matters: Lumens over Watts

When it comes to brightness, don't be misled by the wattage of a light bulb. The key term to look for is "lumens", which directly indicates the amount of light produced by a bulb. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light.
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A quick guide to help you select the right brightness: for a cozy, relaxing space, aim for 1,500-3,000 lumens. For areas where a lot of tasks are done, like the kitchen or home office, opt for higher lumens, approximately 3,000-6,000.

In conclusion, never underestimate the power of proper lighting when staging your home for sale. It can set the mood, highlight the best features of your property, and ultimately create a compelling visual narrative that speaks to potential buyers.

Phil Stout

Owner & Staging Consultant at Sizzle Home Staging
https://www.linkedin.com/in/philstout/