At Fruitful Home Staging, we know every home has its own story—and its own set of challenges. Recently, we had the pleasure of staging a charming two-bedroom lake house that needed a little extra help to stand out. While the property’s idyllic lakeside setting offered undeniable appeal, it also came with its own challenge—a huge wood stove fireplace that was awkwardly placed in the middle of the open concept living area, separating the living space from the dining area. Despite this challenge, with the right staging, this home sold fast—within just two weeks—and for $10K over asking price!

Here are a few of the before photos!

Highlighting Potential Through Staging

Our goal was to turn this cozy retreat into a must-have destination. Buyers needed to feel the lifestyle the property offered—a peaceful getaway perfect for entertaining friends, relaxing with family, or simply enjoying lakeside living. The awkward open layout left vacant left the potential of the space hard to envsion.

We focused on creating a design that enhanced the natural beauty of the space while making every square foot feel functional and inviting. Here’s how we approached it:

  • Living Area: The large wood stove fireplace was a bit of a design challenge, so we strategically placed furniture to draw attention away from the awkwardly placed fireplace and create a smoother flow between the living and dining areas. With a neutral color palette and cozy seating arrangements, we ensured the space felt open and inviting, while still allowing the fireplace to be a warm feature of the room.
  • Primary Bedroom: To evoke a sense of calm and comfort, we used luxurious layered bedding and simple decor, drawing attention to the room’s potential as a relaxing retreat.
  • Second Bedroom: Instead of downplaying the smaller second bedroom, we styled it as a multi-functional space—perfect for a home office, guest room, or cozy sleeping area for kids.
  • Outdoor Living Spaces: The outdoor deck became the star of the show, staged with stylish patio furniture and a table set for dining al fresco. This helped potential buyers envision hosting lakeside gatherings or enjoying quiet mornings with coffee and a view.

The Results Speak for Themselves

With thoughtful staging that minimized the impact of the awkwardly placed fireplace and maximized the home’s layout, the lake house attracted immediate attention. Within two weeks, it went under contract for $10,000 over the asking price! The staging not only helped buyers see how they could make the most of the open-concept area but also connected them emotionally to the lifestyle the home offered.

Check out the video walk through here

Ready to Transform Your Listing?

Whether you’re selling a cozy lake house or a sprawling estate, our team at Fruitful Home Staging knows how to bring out the best in any property. Contact us today to learn how our proven staging strategies can help your home stand out and sell for top dollar.