Putting on the style

By BARBARA WARD

If you are having problems selling your house you may be in need of advice from home-stager Sue Allen of Bleasby.

With her experience of interior design she will be able to give a frank assessment of what is putting off the buyers and advise on how to put it right.

Sue, who runs her business Superior Interiors from her home on Hawthorn Close, says: "If someone has had their house on the market for a long time, it may pay to use a home- stager.

"It's quite useful having a fresh pair of eyes to look at a property.

"It’s about depersonalising it and making it appeal to the majority of people."

She says this usually involves decluttering and trying to erase the owners’ personality from the decor.

Sue can help clients to sort through their possessions, suggesting what can go to charity shops and what can be thrown away. She may also suggest clients put some of their furniture in storage in a bid to create a light and airy feel for would-be buyers.

Home-staging is an idea that comes from America and is particularly useful when preparing a property to rent.

She has already had positive feedback from a number of local estate agents who are willing to recommend her to house-sellers.

Sue also offers clients a restyling service.

This usually involves creating a new look for a room by using much of what is around already.

For her interior design service, Sue will meet clients to assess their likes and dislikes, tastes and requirements. She will then put together a sample board and gradually discover what style the client wants.

She can then source and order the furnishings and oversee the decorating work.

She says: "Not everyone wants the full service. Some people want to know where to get things and then do it themselves.

"Interior design is not just for the wealthy. A lot of people just don't have the time to do the leg work."

Sue, who describes her own style as modern eclectic, suggests that anyone thinking of redecorating should spend time looking at magazines and in shops for ideas.

"Think about different styles and what you like. Think if they are practical and if they fit into your lifestyle," she says.

She suggests that rooms can be changed on a budget simply by buying new accessories.

Wallpaper is making a comeback.

"There are lots of shimmery papers that catch the light and create a feeling of more space."

Sue says colours for autumn include mauves and greens, but people should choose carefully as they will be living with the shades for a long time.

She says: "Often, less is more with ornaments. A few small pieces may look better than too many, which can create a claustrophobic effect."

Sue's home-staging, restyling and interior design services include a free initial consultation and cost from £70.

ABOVE: Sue Allen with some of her sample colours and fabrics. 160707PD4-1

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