BuySellBA
Administrator
How to improve a space without overspending and how much these changes increase the value of a home - Infobae
Source:
www.infobae.com
March 31, 2025
Professional advice allows you to optimize spaces with limited resources, avoid common mistakes, and add value to your property in sales or rentals. What are the vital aspects for getting the design of a living room, dining room, or kitchen right?
By Jose Luis Cieri
A good armchair arrangement, natural light, and a simple floor lamp can transform the living room without great expense (Illustrative Image Infobae)
In a context where spending decisions are made cautiously, improving a home environment without resorting to costly renovations is a concrete option for those looking to renovate spaces. Faced with this need, there is a growing demand for professional design and decoration consulting services aimed at transforming spaces with functional and aesthetic logic, without any construction work.
These changes don't require a major investment. Changing the position of furniture, painting with neutral tones, adding rugs, paintings, or plants, updating armchair covers, adding functional lighting, and reorganizing the space can completely change the way a room is perceived and used.
Even reusing existing furniture with simple techniques such as patina or changing the hardware achieves remarkable results.
The impact is also reflected in the real estate market. According to Lisandro Cuello , a real estate specialist , "a well-decorated home conveys order, care, and greater livability. This influences the decision of the buyer or tenant and allows for a 10% to 15% increase over the original listing, provided the surroundings are appropriate and the improvements are aligned with what the segment is looking for."
Cuello clarified that the visual presentation of a space is crucial during the first visit or when publishing photos to entice those interested in buying or renting.
A newly decorated dining room with new furniture (Photo courtesy of: IG: rufinadeco)
In fact, some homes are offered with furniture included, and not all of them belong to the premium segment . "In those cases, spaces like the living room, kitchen, or dining room are crucial in making the decision to buy or rent easier," Cuello pointed out.
“Through a video call, we analyze the space to be renovated, discuss its dimensions, layout, ceiling height, the client's tastes, and goals. From there, we define an action plan to reorganize the existing space and add what truly makes a difference,” she explained. The service includes a visual proposal with a color palette, a list of recommended furniture, textiles, and objects, and links to purchase.
The choice of textiles is also key
"It's a bridge between the idea and implementation. The client doesn't waste time searching for options or risk making decisions that don't work. Furthermore, common mistakes that make renovation processes more expensive are avoided," Russo emphasized.
To avoid this, he recommended defining a limited palette of three or four shades, prioritizing durable materials, and considering each object within a whole, not in isolation.
Another underestimated aspect is lighting. The right light—in quantity, temperature, and location—changes both the functionality and the atmosphere of a space.
In a large house, an intervention focusing on the open concept and the use of contemporary accessories is key (Illustrative Image Infobae)
"A floor lamp, a warm light, or a new lampshade enhances the space more than a new piece of furniture. Plus, they help highlight the best aspects of the space," Russo said.
It also adds value to incorporate storage solutions, change handles or knobs, add mirrors to visually enlarge, and integrate textures such as linen, jute, or light wood.
The dining room, although often integrated into the living room, needs to be defined with rugs, accent lighting, and chairs appropriate to the space.
In the kitchen, order, vertical design, easy-to-clean materials, and a clear palette are essential to creating a sense of spaciousness and modernity.
Modern and functional kitchens crafted with quality materials, good lighting, efficient storage space, and state-of-the-art appliances are essential. They provide comfort by being the center of family and social life (Photo courtesy: IG: rufinadeco)
Integrated kitchens and living rooms are considered double due to the number of elements to be considered. The service includes a diagnostic video call, a visual guide, suggested stores with discounts, complementary materials, and personalized follow-up to implement the changes.
Russo also noted that many clients come to the service without a clear idea of what they want. “The number of options available creates confusion. A consultation organizes ideas, avoids impulse purchases, and allows you to plan an environment that works in the short and long term,” she explains. For those facing moves, renovations, or changes in family routine, having professional guidance saves time and money.
The bathroom should be well designed. Equipped with quality materials. A spacious shower or bathtub, good lighting, ventilation, elegant finishes, and practical details like towel racks and storage are important (Illustrative Image: Infobae)
Another tool that has grown in the market is home staging ( aesthetic presentation of the home for sale or rent ), a technique that combines design and marketing.
Russo stated: "It's estimated to cost around 2% of the property's value, but it allows for more visitors, shorter time to market, and better justification of the asking price."
The goal is to highlight the property's strengths and make it easier for visitors to imagine themselves living there.
Renovating social spaces like the living room, kitchen, or dining room requires precision in design and budgeting.
Architect Luciano Ramírez Nieto of the Casanueva studio indicated that these areas are often prioritized for renovations, as they combine daily functionality with visual impact. "The costs for these spaces range from USD 400 to USD 800 per square meter, depending on the type of materials, the furniture design, and the complexity of the project," he noted.
Plants and a lack of furniture help the living room appear more spacious and functional (Illustrative Image Infobae)
He explained that the most in-demand work includes refurbishing siding, lighting, carpentry, and layout adjustments to improve traffic flow.
"In homes being priced for sale, these improvements not only enhance the quality of the space, but also allow for a more affordable listing price. The completion time can vary between three and six weeks, depending on the level of work and the availability of materials," added Ramírez Nieto.
Comfort, functionality, and aesthetics become pillars for enhancing a space. It's not about replicating a trend, but rather ensuring that the environment meets real needs, is well-lit, harmonious, and easy to maintain. Ramírez Nieto concluded: "For those who live in a home or are looking to close a purchase or rental deal, decoration is no longer a minor detail, but a strategic decision."
www.buysellba.com
Source:
Cómo mejorar un ambiente sin gastar de más y cuánto elevan estos cambios la cotización de una vivienda
Un asesoramiento profesional permite optimizar espacios con recursos limitados, evita errores frecuentes y suma valor al inmueble en operaciones de venta o alquiler. Cuales son los aspectos vitales para acertar en el diseño de un living, comedor o la cocina
www.infobae.com
March 31, 2025
Professional advice allows you to optimize spaces with limited resources, avoid common mistakes, and add value to your property in sales or rentals. What are the vital aspects for getting the design of a living room, dining room, or kitchen right?
By Jose Luis Cieri
A good armchair arrangement, natural light, and a simple floor lamp can transform the living room without great expense (Illustrative Image Infobae)
In a context where spending decisions are made cautiously, improving a home environment without resorting to costly renovations is a concrete option for those looking to renovate spaces. Faced with this need, there is a growing demand for professional design and decoration consulting services aimed at transforming spaces with functional and aesthetic logic, without any construction work.
These changes don't require a major investment. Changing the position of furniture, painting with neutral tones, adding rugs, paintings, or plants, updating armchair covers, adding functional lighting, and reorganizing the space can completely change the way a room is perceived and used.
Even reusing existing furniture with simple techniques such as patina or changing the hardware achieves remarkable results.
The impact is also reflected in the real estate market. According to Lisandro Cuello , a real estate specialist , "a well-decorated home conveys order, care, and greater livability. This influences the decision of the buyer or tenant and allows for a 10% to 15% increase over the original listing, provided the surroundings are appropriate and the improvements are aligned with what the segment is looking for."
Cuello clarified that the visual presentation of a space is crucial during the first visit or when publishing photos to entice those interested in buying or renting.
A newly decorated dining room with new furniture (Photo courtesy of: IG: rufinadeco)
In fact, some homes are offered with furniture included, and not all of them belong to the premium segment . "In those cases, spaces like the living room, kitchen, or dining room are crucial in making the decision to buy or rent easier," Cuello pointed out.
The advantage of a consultancy
Sol Russo , creator of Rufina Deco, emphasized that deco consulting allows for accessible interventions in spaces, respecting each person's lifestyle and available resources.“Through a video call, we analyze the space to be renovated, discuss its dimensions, layout, ceiling height, the client's tastes, and goals. From there, we define an action plan to reorganize the existing space and add what truly makes a difference,” she explained. The service includes a visual proposal with a color palette, a list of recommended furniture, textiles, and objects, and links to purchase.
The choice of textiles is also key
"It's a bridge between the idea and implementation. The client doesn't waste time searching for options or risk making decisions that don't work. Furthermore, common mistakes that make renovation processes more expensive are avoided," Russo emphasized.
What not to do to avoid mistakes
Among the most common mistakes is the careless choice of colors and materials. “Intense tones in small spaces visually diminish the space. Using several different colors or low-quality materials compromises harmony and durability. It's also common to see out-of-scale furniture that obstructs the passageway or clutters the room,” she observed.To avoid this, he recommended defining a limited palette of three or four shades, prioritizing durable materials, and considering each object within a whole, not in isolation.
Another underestimated aspect is lighting. The right light—in quantity, temperature, and location—changes both the functionality and the atmosphere of a space.
In a large house, an intervention focusing on the open concept and the use of contemporary accessories is key (Illustrative Image Infobae)
"A floor lamp, a warm light, or a new lampshade enhances the space more than a new piece of furniture. Plus, they help highlight the best aspects of the space," Russo said.
It also adds value to incorporate storage solutions, change handles or knobs, add mirrors to visually enlarge, and integrate textures such as linen, jute, or light wood.
Which environments to prioritize
The key spaces in every property are the living room, dining room, and kitchen. In the living room, priority is given to comfortable furniture, a fluid flow, neutral textiles, and elements that reflect identity without being overwhelming.The dining room, although often integrated into the living room, needs to be defined with rugs, accent lighting, and chairs appropriate to the space.
In the kitchen, order, vertical design, easy-to-clean materials, and a clear palette are essential to creating a sense of spaciousness and modernity.
Tips: Small changes, big results
A complete renovation isn't necessary to refresh a space. Russo suggested several simple interventions that can make a significant impact:- Rearrange your furniture : Changing the arrangement of your furniture can improve flow and the perception of space. “Sometimes moving a sofa or table creates a feeling of spaciousness,” she says.
- Painting the walls : Color transforms a room. “A fresh coat of paint, in the right shades, refreshes any space,” she said. Light colors bring light, while darker tones provide warmth.
- Update textiles : Adding new pillows, curtains, or rugs changes the atmosphere of a room. “They're elements that, without a large investment, add texture and color,” she commented.
Modern and functional kitchens crafted with quality materials, good lighting, efficient storage space, and state-of-the-art appliances are essential. They provide comfort by being the center of family and social life (Photo courtesy: IG: rufinadeco)
- Proper Lighting : Replacing light bulbs or changing the location of lights improves functionality and ambiance.
- Accessories and details : Adding plants, paintings, or decorative elements personalizes and enlivens a room. "Details reflect the personality of those who live in the space and make it unique," she emphasizes.
Prices: advice and costs for decorating
The investment in consulting is calculated per room. For spaces up to 30 square meters, prices start at $240,000 or $240 USD, and for a two-bedroom apartment, prices start at $360,000 or $360 USD, with increases depending on the complexity.Integrated kitchens and living rooms are considered double due to the number of elements to be considered. The service includes a diagnostic video call, a visual guide, suggested stores with discounts, complementary materials, and personalized follow-up to implement the changes.
Russo also noted that many clients come to the service without a clear idea of what they want. “The number of options available creates confusion. A consultation organizes ideas, avoids impulse purchases, and allows you to plan an environment that works in the short and long term,” she explains. For those facing moves, renovations, or changes in family routine, having professional guidance saves time and money.
The bathroom should be well designed. Equipped with quality materials. A spacious shower or bathtub, good lighting, ventilation, elegant finishes, and practical details like towel racks and storage are important (Illustrative Image: Infobae)
Another tool that has grown in the market is home staging ( aesthetic presentation of the home for sale or rent ), a technique that combines design and marketing.
Russo stated: "It's estimated to cost around 2% of the property's value, but it allows for more visitors, shorter time to market, and better justification of the asking price."
The goal is to highlight the property's strengths and make it easier for visitors to imagine themselves living there.
Renovating social spaces like the living room, kitchen, or dining room requires precision in design and budgeting.
Architect Luciano Ramírez Nieto of the Casanueva studio indicated that these areas are often prioritized for renovations, as they combine daily functionality with visual impact. "The costs for these spaces range from USD 400 to USD 800 per square meter, depending on the type of materials, the furniture design, and the complexity of the project," he noted.
Plants and a lack of furniture help the living room appear more spacious and functional (Illustrative Image Infobae)
He explained that the most in-demand work includes refurbishing siding, lighting, carpentry, and layout adjustments to improve traffic flow.
"In homes being priced for sale, these improvements not only enhance the quality of the space, but also allow for a more affordable listing price. The completion time can vary between three and six weeks, depending on the level of work and the availability of materials," added Ramírez Nieto.
Comfort, functionality, and aesthetics become pillars for enhancing a space. It's not about replicating a trend, but rather ensuring that the environment meets real needs, is well-lit, harmonious, and easy to maintain. Ramírez Nieto concluded: "For those who live in a home or are looking to close a purchase or rental deal, decoration is no longer a minor detail, but a strategic decision."
www.buysellba.com
