☕ Cup of Joe with a Pro: Staging? Reconsider That Bedding

When it comes to preparing a home for sale, few things make as big of an impact as professional staging. In a recent sit-down with Gabrielle Hamill, creative director of Urban Staging in Brooklyn, New York, we were reminded that staging is not about decorating — it's about creating a feeling. And sometimes, that means breaking long-standing traditions, like relying solely on stark white bedding.

Gabrielle Hamill didn’t set out to be a home stager. Originally a fashion designer, her journey into staging has brought a refreshing eye for color, texture, and balance to the homes she designs. After years studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology and working in fashion hubs like Paris and Tangier, she found her passion for design reignited — not through fashion, but through interiors.

Today, Gabrielle leads a talented team at Urban Staging, transforming spaces across New York City into homes buyers can envision themselves living in. Her biggest tip? It's time to rethink that all-white hotel-style bedding. While crisp white was once the gold standard for staging beds, Gabrielle’s team found it often looks bland in photographs. Now, they weave in rich textures, soft colors, and layered fabrics to create depth, interest, and a feeling of warmth.

Gabrielle’s Top Home Staging Tips

1. Rethink the White Bedding
Layer in textures and subtle color palettes to make bedrooms feel warmer and more inviting.

2. Add Fresh Details
Fresh flowers, fluffy towels, and updated bedding can instantly refresh a space. Luxurious kitchen touches — like a chic espresso machine — go a long way too!

3. Be Mindful of Decor
Remove personal photos, kid's artwork, and anything polarizing to let buyers picture themselves living there.

4. Think in Odd Numbers
Use three or five elements in vignettes like stacked books and a vase — it’s an easy way to elevate any table or shelf.

5. Warm Up Your Lighting
Soft, warm bulbs make a home feel more inviting. Match all bulbs throughout your home for consistency.

6. Clear Kitchen Clutter
Put away most small appliances to highlight counter space — and keep only aspirational ones like espresso machines visible.

Why It Matters

According to the Real Estate Staging Association, professionally staged homes in the U.S. sell for an average of $69,669 more than their listing price. Staging isn’t about adding “stuff” — it's about creating a feeling buyers fall in love with.

As Gabrielle wisely said: "Your eyes will let you know when a space has been staged well. You should instantly envision yourself living there — not worrying about where you'll put your toaster."

👉 You can read the full original article here:
Homes.com - Cup of Joe with a Pro: Staging? Reconsider That White Bedding

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