There are a lot of AI enhanced tools available for doing anything from writing a book to building a house. I thought it would be nice to provide an example of how I virtually design/stage a home, distinguishing it from an AI staging process. You see, AI staging appears nice on the surface, but it is typically unrealistic. It often fails to consider the importance of room connection—a human quality—and rarely uses furniture that can actually be purchased (and where) in order to recreate the proposed look.
I started virtually designing and staging for clients to be able to finalize a design before I arrived onsite. This process allowed me to design/stage remotely from across the nation with consistent success. I was able to create renditions of the space with the actual pieces I wanted to use (down to the smallest details). After getting approval on the design, I could submit an order for the furniture, pillows, artwork—you name it. The client receives and assembles the furniture before I arrive (or hires someone to do it). Then, I fly in, design/stage the entire project in a weekend and a dream home, dream vacation rental, dream business, becomes a reality with a minimum of fuss.
AI has become quite popular in the DIY process of staging homes! In my own system, the first step is to create renditions and upload them to MLS. This may be the ONLY step necessary, as I can immediately see how to best live in the home. I am able to stage the home to look exactly like the rendition, putting the furnishings on my “Shop My” page where the furniture and accessories can be ordered directly by the owner.
I have included photos showing the differences between my virtual project and AI renderings through a recent example I did for a friend. She moved out of her home and it is now empty, but I had some photos from before she moved. I staged the living room using the actual furniture and accessories I have used before when furnishing vacation rentals, homes and business projects.
I have included a before/after sequence and an AI option where you can see how the lack of human qualities feels like someone “coloring outside the lines.”
Check out the different virtual design packages available for a simple, inexpensive way to change out a room, or remodel a house.
Using design tools wisely,
Karen Conrad Metcalfe