Page 30 - 364377 LP243022 BB Magazine 32pp A4 (July 2022)

PAUL ROLFE
MARKET COMMENTARY JUNE 2022
Sell
T W
Making the most of your Mantlepiece
A recent survey revealed that 67% of us don’t think our mantlepiece is a key area to decorate and stage if we are thinking of selling. However, often being the focal point of the main reception room in your property a stylish mantlepiece impacts on the perception of a property’s interior and value.
Whether working with plants, ornaments, picture frames or other decorative accessories, positioning is key in maximising the appearance of the items, the framing and the mantlepiece itself. When you are grouping accessories asymmetrically, always work
in odd numbers and keep things simple by harnessing the power of three. To do this, group three pieces that are of different heights, widths or dimensions on one side of the mantlepiece and balance this with one larger piece on the opposite side. This allows both sides of the mantlepiece to work in harmony and showcases the owner’s eye for design.
Symmetry is a great tool for showcasing similar accessories in an orderly and organised way. A symmetrical layout on a mantlepiece makes a striking statement and works especially well when reflecting a room that has an entirely symmetrical layout or to achieve a more formal feel to a room. Adding a focal piece in the middle of a mantlepiece, whether a mirror, wall sculpture or work of art, and flanking this piece with identical accessories on either side gives any room classic, timeless elegance, also eliminating the effort needed to find separate pieces that complement each other.
Outdoor Living
Moving into summer, if you are thinking of selling at this time, and you have appropriate outdoor space, you should consider making this space as stylish
as the rest of your home for maximum impact.
This year bold bright colours in outdoor furniture are trending and it is an opportunity to make an outdoor entertaining space really eye-catching against a backdrop of green
foliage, grass and plants. Make sure your outdoor furniture is made for all weather types, it is Scotland after all, and remember this is an investment you can take with you to your next home.
Give your garden some impact with the right lighting, this can transform the ambience
of your garden. Portable fire lanterns are
a good flexible option to create the right lighting scheme for different garden spaces. Firepits and patio heaters will demonstrate to prospective buyers the potential to entertain and enjoy the garden spaces at your property.
Finally don’t forget the more mundane tasks, borders and patio areas weeded if needed, stone flags and decking jet washed, fencing in good repair and freshly stained, to complete the overall impression of attractive outdoor spaces that add value to your property.
30 BLACK BITCH ISSUE 91 JULY 2022
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HOUSING ///
In this issue of the magazine, we thought we would share with you some specific hints and advice on staging a couple of areas of your property if you are thinking of selling.