Home Staging Tips: How to handle an awkward layout

We've all seen it before.  The 900 sq ft loft that is, in fact, 300 sq ft of hallway, and more bathrooms than any resident actually needs.  Or the oddly shaped corner condos which boast panoramic views.  The building looks architecturally stunning from the exterior, but trying to place furniture inside is a moving game of Tetris. 

So you've got this long hallway, pie shaped condo.  Now what?  How do you use the space, and showcase the best features?  Whether you are designing for Living or Home Staging, the approach is often the same. 

Problem 1: The narrow, never ending hallway. 

Solution: use the hallway to showcase pics.  Stick to black and white, or a monochromatic colour scheme to keep it simple and easy to look at. 

Long hallways are a great opportunity to showcase your art collection. 
Listing Realtor: Chris Bibby

Problem 2:  There isn't a flat wall to put a couch on

Solution: Don't be afraid to float the couch out in the space.  Create and define the living room with a nice area rug.  Especially in open concept condos, a floating living room can make the space feel larger, more open, and airy. 

Float the livingroom set out into the space to create an airy, open feel.
LISTING REALTOR: CHRIS BIBBY

Problem 3: The dining area isn't rectangular, and there is no-where to put the console. 

Solution: As with the living room, don't be afraid to shake things up a bit.  And breaking rules can be fun!  The console does not have to be right beside the dining table.  In this condo (above & below) we had two options for the console- the wall between the living / dining OR the wall kitty corner to the kitchen and adjacent to the dining space.  We tried both, and went with what felt right. 

Dining and console are kitty-corner to each other.  Try different places and go with what feels right!
LISTING REALTOR: CHRIS BIBBY