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Cottage Decorating
A cozy lived-in-look is the essence of cottage living. You are surrounded by soft cottons, well loved furnishings and accessories which give you a homey atmosphere that invites you in to stay awhile. Cottage colors are soft washed colorways that will shine on a bed of fresh clean cotton sheets. The essentials of cottage living is comfy, casual and personal to the home owner. Fabrics don’t have to be pressed and in pristine condition, rather more forgiving. Wrinkles are welcomed to the primarily linen and cotton fabrications.
Chips and Dents
If you haven’t already noticed, cottage decorating embraces what some may call, “The chip and dent item throw aways.” However, these hidden and well used pieces are treasures with personality and charm. This includes chalk painted coffee tables, antique metal bed frames, chipped cabinets, mixed china dishes, fresh flowers and lots of vintage flour sacs and ticking fabrics used for table linens and other soft goods.
Light and Airy
Cottage decorating incorporates a lightness and openness to natural sunlight. Simple window treatments that don’t block all this warm and bright goodness is key. Select sheer and lighter fabrics to adorn windows. Tie tops or tab top draperies are a nice choice in cottage rooms because they can be easily pushed to the side to let in light or closed for more privacy. If you are lucky enough to have a window seat or bay window these are perfect opportunities for another cozy space that flows well in a cottage styled home. These window nooks are always a plus to let in more light. Add soft cushions and pillows in forgiving cotton materials with lots of floral, pastel and toile designs to stress an English cottage styling.
Floral Frenzy
Florals are trending, and for a wonderful reason. Homes need flowers and plants to really make it come alive, and cottage decorating can never go without either. Whether you add fresh roses and blossoms to a table or add silk flowers, these garden gems are a must. Even more on trend for these casual shabby chic spaces are floral fabrics on bedding, table settings, curtains and tossed pillows. Don’t be afraid to bring the garden party outside. Wicker furniture, bistro sets and casual folding chairs are a great start to your garden party. Look for tea sets, lovely baskets, and other salvaged treasures to place outdoors.
Want to know more about your Decorating Style? Check out this and other Design Styles on our DCS Design Style Guide!