3 Luxury Staging Trends to Take ‘Center Stage’ in 2021

by Diane Hartley

Most luxury real estate professionals and their clients know staging trends are important. But did you know staging changes as the market evolves?

Having a grasp on the latest staging trends gives you that extra edge over your competitors, and while having an expert stager is half the battle, you’re ultimately responsible for the end result.

So, let’s take a look at some of the staging trends that are set to make a comeback in 2021, and some of the new staging trends that have emerged from nearly a year spent in quarantine.

1. Warm Tones Are Making a Comeback

It’s true—the stark, minimal whites and grays that took center stage (no pun intended) for over a decade at open houses are taking a backseat to warmer, more inviting palettes.

And while it’s important to choose a neutral that fits the home’s location, lighting and the room’s existing color palette, Certified Canadian Staging Professional (CSP™) Elite and Luxury Specialist Lori Pedersen told the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing (The Institute), “Really nice beiges are coming back—definitely not the caramels and the tans that were even before the grays— so no yellow-toned beiges, but nice soothing and warm beiges.”

This is especially true in homes that offer a closer connection to nature, like those in mountain towns or beachfront property as they help to tie in the natural scenery.

2. ‘Creature Comforts’ Sell

As luxury real estate coach and speaker Matt Ferrara said in a recent interview with The Institute, “Real estate is about people standing at the corner of life and change.”

And right now, even the most successful clients are seeking comfort, certainty and security as the world deals with the pandemic. Staging is your opportunity to show them the kind of comfortable oasis your listing can offer. You can achieve this with more throw pillows, blankets, staged coffee and tea areas, and even outdoor dining areas.

When staging is complete, a prospective buyer should be able to look at the space and think, “Yes, this feels like a space I’d like to spend a lot of time in.”

3. Black Statement Pieces Are Back

Another unexpected luxury trend making a comeback? Black.

Black statement pieces can help draw the buyer’s eye to the best features of the home.

In our interview with expert stager Pedersen, she added, “Black is showing a strong place in staging. When everything is neutral and smooth, your eye has nowhere to rest.

“But if we ground things with black pieces, like art that has a black frame, or a beautiful black marble island in a kitchen, those are things that really draw your eye.”

Pedersen also mentions that in the luxury market, it’s okay to take some risks. Luxury buyers are typically looking for something a bit more notable and memorable, so staging has more creative leeway here than in the traditional market.

Want to stay on the leading edge of staging trends and luxury real estate marketing strategies?

Becoming a member of The Institute gives you access to some of the top producers in the industry and done-for-you marketing tools that give you an absolute advantage.

The Institute also offers a wide range of resources for you to invest in yourself at any stage in your luxury real estate career—even if it hasn’t begun yet. RE

Diane Hartley is president of the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, a premier independent authority in training and designation for real estate agents working in the upper-tier residential market. Hartley brings her passion for luxury marketing and more than 20 years of experience growing and leading businesses to her role as president of The Institute.