Smart Summer Staging Tips

As the summer real estate season kicks off, sellers are looking for an edge in a competitive market. One of the most effective ways to increase a property’s appeal? Thoughtful staging. According to Meridith Baer—interior designer, founder of Meridith Baer Home, and a trusted name in luxury staging—this season’s most successful homes embrace natural materials, layered lighting, and a lived-in but elevated aesthetic.

Why Buyers Love Organic Shapes

Baer, whose team stages hundreds of properties each year, says buyers are especially drawn to homes that feel like a serene retreat. “Homebuyers are really responding to relaxed organic shapes, especially in large open-concept homes,” she says. “The combination of organic wood pieces, free-form upholstery, and arched doorways can transport the homeowner to more relaxed, exotic locations like Tulum or Antibes.”

How to Build a Beautiful Neutral Foundation

One of her top strategies is to start with a neutral palette—and build from there. “The key to keeping a neutral foundation from looking too plain is a balance of textures and materials,” Baer explains. In a recent project in Venice Beach, for example, she paired cream-colored upholstery with a live root coffee table and travertine accents. “It created a serene interior that let the Pacific Ocean be the star.”

Bring in Natural Materials to Ground the Space

Sustainably sourced natural materials like live-edge dining tables, wooden stump stools, and linen-covered furniture not only elevate a space but also help it feel grounded. “These pieces instantly relax people and offer a sense of retreat from the otherwise hectic world,” says Baer.

Light It Right: A Balanced Approach

Lighting is another critical detail—and one many homeowners overlook. Baer recommends a layered approach. “Overhead lighting is important, but it shouldn’t be your only source. Mix in table lamps, sconces, bookshelf lights, and even art lighting. It helps avoid dead zones and adds drama to the room.”

Avoid Common Staging Mistakes

Of course, not every seller has the budget for a full-scale staging. Baer’s advice for DIYers? Avoid overdoing it. “One of the biggest mistakes I see is setting a dining table for 12, as if you’re about to host a dinner party. It can make buyers feel like they’re intruding,” she says. “Instead, declutter—especially countertops and closets. Let the space breathe. And don’t underestimate the power of fresh flowers.”

Create an Emotional Connection Through Details

For luxury properties, Baer says it’s not about making a space look expensive but about creating an experience. ‘It’s about aspirational living—giving people a vision of what their life could feel like in that home. That means thinking through every detail, from the scent in the entryway to the softness of the throws on the sofa.’ It’s the kind of care, she says, that helps buyers connect emotionally—and leads to quicker, stronger offers.

Stage for the Season—Especially Outdoors

She also advises homeowners to think seasonally. In summer, outdoor areas become a major selling point. “Make sure your patios, decks, and balconies are staged with intention,” Baer notes. “A couple of well-placed chairs, an outdoor rug, and some greenery can transform a bare space into a potential buyer’s favorite room.” For coastal properties, she recommends echoing the environment with breezy linens, woven textures, and subtle nods to the sea—without resorting to overdone nautical themes.

Think About Flow and Movement

Another element Baer emphasizes is flow—how people move through a home and interact with its spaces. ‘When I stage, I try to anticipate the buyer’s journey. Are there awkward transitions between rooms? Are there visual blocks that interrupt sightlines? These are details that can quietly influence someone’s impression of the home,’ she says. Rearranging furniture or removing excess pieces can open up circulation and create a more intuitive layout.

Looking for more real estate and design tips? Check out our recent features on luxury oceanfront homes and elevated outdoor living.

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