Home staging is one of the most effective tools in selling a property. The aim of staging is to create a welcoming, inviting environment that helps potential buyers envision themselves living in the space. While many factors contribute to a successful home staging strategy---like furniture arrangement, color schemes, lighting, and decor---one of the simplest, most impactful ways to elevate a home's aesthetic is through the use of plants and greenery.
Not only do plants add beauty and vibrancy to a room, but they also improve the overall ambiance, bringing a touch of nature indoors. In this guide, we'll explore how to incorporate plants and greenery effectively in home staging, why they work so well, and how to use them to create a lush, appealing atmosphere that resonates with prospective buyers.
The Power of Plants in Home Staging
Why Greenery Works So Well in Home Staging
Plants are one of the easiest and most effective ways to enhance a home's appeal. Here's why:
1. Enhance Aesthetics and Add Color
Whether it's the rich green tones of foliage or the soft blooms of a flower, plants add vibrant color to a space. Greenery can transform a neutral room into something more dynamic and alive, making the space feel warmer and more inviting.
2. Create a Calming Atmosphere
Numerous studies have shown that plants help reduce stress and improve overall mood. This is especially relevant when staging a home, as you want potential buyers to feel relaxed and comfortable while they tour the property. The presence of greenery evokes feelings of tranquility, which can influence how buyers perceive the home.
3. Improve Air Quality
Plants have been proven to purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Some plants even absorb harmful toxins, creating a cleaner environment. When buyers step into a home with lush greenery, they are not only visually stimulated but may also feel that the space is healthier and fresher.
4. Give the Home a Lived-in Feel
A common challenge for home stagers is making a property feel lived-in, but not cluttered. Plants naturally add life and warmth to a space without being overbearing. They give the impression of a well-maintained home, with someone who has taken the time to care for their surroundings. Well-placed plants can make the space feel like a place someone would be happy to live in.
5. Increase Perceived Value
Homes that feature beautiful plant arrangements are perceived as more attractive and well-maintained. Buyers may subconsciously associate the presence of healthy plants with a home that's in good condition, giving the property a higher perceived value. This could ultimately lead to a faster sale or higher offers.
Choosing the Right Plants for Home Staging
When incorporating plants into your home staging, it's crucial to select the right types of plants that complement the space and the overall design aesthetic. Here are some tips for choosing the best plants for your staging needs:
1. Consider the Lighting
One of the most important factors in choosing plants is the amount of natural light the space receives. Some plants thrive in low light, while others require plenty of sunlight. For rooms with limited natural light, opt for plants that can tolerate or even thrive in shade, such as:
- Snake plants (Sansevieria)
- ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
- Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum)
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
For spaces with ample natural light, you can experiment with sun-loving plants like:
Make sure to assess the lighting in each room and choose plants accordingly. Overexposure to sunlight can scorch the leaves of certain plants, while others may fail to thrive in dimly lit spaces.
2. Pick Plants that Complement the Room's Style
The style of the plants you choose should complement the room's overall aesthetic. For example, if you're staging a minimalist, modern home, you might opt for sleek, sculptural plants like a snake plant or a fiddle leaf fig . On the other hand, if the home has a more rustic, cozy feel, plants like ivy , ferns , or spider plants would work better.
3. Choose Plants with Varied Heights and Textures
One way to add visual interest is by varying the height and texture of the plants you use. Tall plants like dracaenas or bird of paradise can be placed in corners or near windows to add dimension to the space, while shorter plants like succulents or pothos work well on tables, counters, or shelves.
A Balanced Approach:
When staging with plants, aim for balance. Too many large plants in one room can make the space feel overcrowded, while too many small plants might not have enough visual impact. Strike a balance by using a combination of both types, and remember to spread them out across different areas of the room.
Best Practices for Using Plants in Home Staging
Once you've chosen the right plants, you'll need to figure out how to strategically place them around the home. Here are some practical tips for using plants effectively in your home staging:
1. Use Plants to Draw Attention to Key Features
Plants can be used to highlight the best features of your home, such as large windows, architectural details, or unique design elements. For example:
- Place a tall fiddle leaf fig near a large window to draw attention to the natural light.
- Use a row of smaller plants like succulents or herbs to enhance a kitchen countertop or a dining table, making the space feel fresh and inviting.
- Position a statement plant, like a snake plant , near an entryway to create an immediate focal point when buyers enter the home.
By placing plants near architectural features, you can subtly guide the buyer's eye toward the most desirable aspects of the property.
2. Be Mindful of Scale and Proportions
When selecting plants, it's important to consider the scale and proportions of the room. A massive plant might overwhelm a small space, while a tiny plant might get lost in a large, open room. Think about how the size of the plant interacts with the furniture and the overall layout.
- In smaller rooms, use smaller plants like pothos or succulents that can sit on shelves, coffee tables, or countertops.
- In larger rooms, consider a rubber tree or bird of paradise , which add height and fill up empty corners.
The key is to ensure the plants feel proportionate to the space, enhancing it rather than overwhelming it.
3. Create Layers and Depth
Plants can also be used to create layers and depth within a room. For example, place a large plant in a corner to create a sense of fullness in the space, and add smaller plants or flowers at varying heights on a coffee table or windowsill. This layering creates visual interest and makes the room feel more dynamic and multidimensional.
4. Use Uniformity for a Sleek Look
While variety can be helpful, a more cohesive, uniform approach can work better in certain spaces. For example, in a modern or minimalist setting, you might want to use all the same type of plant in similar-sized pots throughout the space. This uniformity creates a clean, sophisticated look that appeals to buyers who appreciate simplicity and order.
5. Incorporate Planters and Containers that Match the Space
The containers you choose for your plants are just as important as the plants themselves. Opt for planters that match the aesthetic of the room---whether that's sleek, modern pots in black or white, rustic terracotta containers, or elegant ceramic pots. The right planter can elevate a plant's appearance and make the entire space feel more polished.
You can also use planters to add a bit of color or texture to the room, but avoid overly flashy or clashing containers. The goal is for the plants and their containers to complement, rather than dominate, the space.
6. Maintain Your Plants
Healthy plants are essential to a successful staging strategy. Dead or wilting plants send a message that the home is poorly maintained, which can turn buyers away. Be sure to:
- Water your plants regularly.
- Remove any dead leaves or flowers.
- Prune and trim plants to keep them looking fresh and healthy.
- Re-pot plants that have outgrown their containers to keep them looking neat.
How to Incorporate Greenery in Different Rooms
1. Living Room
The living room is the heart of the home, so it's essential to create a welcoming atmosphere. A mix of plants with varying sizes and textures can add life to this space. Consider:
- A large plant like a fiddle leaf fig in a corner.
- Small plants, such as succulents or snake plants , on coffee tables, shelves, or side tables.
- A statement plant like a rubber tree or palm near the sofa for balance.
2. Kitchen
The kitchen is often a more utilitarian space, but plants can add a fresh, lively element. Use small herbs like basil , mint , or rosemary in planters on windowsills or countertops. Alternatively, a bamboo plant or small potted succulents can brighten up an otherwise functional area.
3. Bedroom
In the bedroom, plants can add a calming vibe, ideal for relaxation. Consider placing a snake plant or a peace lily near the bed or by the window. A hanging plant, such as a philodendron , adds a touch of greenery without taking up too much floor space.
4. Bathroom
Bathrooms are perfect for incorporating humidity-loving plants like ferns , peace lilies , or spider plants . These plants thrive in the steamy environment of a bathroom and can add a natural touch to the space.
Conclusion
Using plants and greenery in home staging is an incredibly powerful way to create a lush, inviting environment that resonates with potential buyers. The right plants can enhance the overall aesthetic, improve air quality, and contribute to a calm and welcoming atmosphere. By carefully selecting the plants, planters, and their placements, you can transform your home into a lush sanctuary that appeals to buyers and boosts the property's marketability.
Whether you're staging your own home for sale or working with a professional, adding plants is a simple yet effective way to make your property stand out. With a little attention to detail, you can use greenery to showcase your home in the best light and create a lasting impression.