On this week’s segment of City Line, I talked about different ways you can update up your cottage style for the new season.
Updating doesn’t have to be about redecorating your entire space. It can just be about the little touches you can bring to your country home, making it feel refreshed and new for the summer season ahead.
Whatever your style is—quaint, rustic, pretty or traditional—all it takes is a few choice accessories and soft finishes to make your cottage feel fresh and new. Consider it a mini-makeover! Here are some suggestions:
Refresh with soft finishes
I love an earthy, organic feel for my cottage style. I want to walk into the space and feel instantly relaxed and comfortable. So, when we come back up for the summer season, I always bring a bunch of new carpets, wicker baskets, and lanterns to brighten up the space.
All of the pieces have a rustic look to them, almost as if to say I found them at some small antique shop in town. My theme veers on anything that feels breezy, airy and bright.
Out with the old cottage style
So many cottages can have an old-school, tired look to them. Many are typically really dark, dank, and full of tired old chairs and furniture. I like to brighten up the space – literally. Because many country homes have greater natural light exposure, I want to take advantage of that.
I’d re-paint the walls in oyster shell, cream or light grey. Switch out any heavy, dark wood furniture with something lighter, whether it be something like wicker, or even painted white. Even in a smaller space, white has the ability to make the space look much bigger and fresh. Slipcovered furniture is also very popular in a cottage look because it offers relaxed and easily updated furnishings.
Fun with fabrics
Choose fabrics that suit the vibe of your cottage home. If you only spend summers here, consider gauzy linens, burlap, cottons and jute. They feel breezy and airy, and really go with a relaxed, comfortable setting.
Accessories
It’s always fun to update your space with accessories, but remember: edit your finds, and don’t overcrowd your space. The same rule applies to your cottage style. It may be tempting to meander through all of the wonderful antique and vintage shops and buy everything you see. It’s best to be selective, though, with what you actually buy for your home.
My weakness is serving platters, plates, bowls, you name it. So, if I find some charming options when I’m shopping, I’ll always pick up a few new ones for entertaining at the cottage. You can also refresh your space with new picture frames, throw pillows, lamp shades or bed linens, too.
Flowers, flowers, flowers
My favourite thing about a cottage home is walking through a room full of freshly-picked blooms. I love my gardens at my cottage, so I take full advantage of what they grow in the summer and use all the wildflowers and plants as design inspiration inside.