How to Decorate Cottage Style
Cottage style decorating evokes a warm, cozy feel in any home -- even if it's not technically a cottage. The style arose after the more formal Victorian period and is attractive to people who want a light, airy but welcoming space. The distinctive look is anchored by calming colors, comfortable, classic furniture and traditional patterns. It's not fussy, but comfortable, and the look can be modified to suit any home, whether it's a cozy cabin in the mountains, an oceanfront bungalow or an apartment in the city. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Paint and paintbrushes
- Wood furniture
- Patterned linens
- Vintage accessories
Instructions
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Choose the right colors. Cottage style is light and soothing, not bright or deep. Soft grays, blues, yellows and other pastels work well. Light woods such as pine or oak set off the style nicely, but stay away from sleek, cold metals which can look too modern.
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Anchor with solid pieces of furniture. Stay away from ornate, fussy antiques. Vintage is actually a good choice, as long as it's classic and simple. Sturdy but still graceful furniture is best, such as chairs with curving -- but not ornately carved -- arms, romantic four-poster beds, and anything along those lines that has a slightly distressed finish.
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Add patterned linens. Gingham curtains, floral slipcovers, graceful Roman shades and cheerfully striped throws all add to the warmth of a cottage style room. Don't be afraid to mix patterns if they are in the same color family, such as bright yellow flowers against softer yellow stripes.
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Decorate with vintage accessories. Cottage style is not new and modern, but rather old, eclectic and, sometimes, a little quirky. Fresh flowers are a must with this style. Try placing a vase in an old birdcage for a unique centerpiece. Candle chandeliers, old clocks, interesting, hand-woven baskets, and even old windows and doors make for excellent cottage-style decor.
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Tips & Warnings
If the colors and patterns get too overwhelming, add more white, which always makes a cottage-style room look clean and bright. Try leaving the walls white until you decorate to see how much color you will be adding to the room. You might not want to paint them at all.
References
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
