Changing the original theme of your house into a cottage design does not have to eat up all your time and money. In fact, you can achieve this even if you keep your basic structure intact, and without the services of an interior decorator. The good thing about cottage design is that it incorporates the home owner’s personal style and turns it into a work of art. To give your house the feel of a cozy retreat, here are some suggestions.
Think light.
The secret behind the relaxing atmosphere of a cottage home is the use of light materials. Remove heavy brocade curtains and valances and replace them with airy or gauzy fabrics like organza. Bamboo blinds and those of other light wood materials are ideal.
Start a Pattern Revolution.
Don’t be afraid to use bold prints and patterns. Just make sure that you balance it out. A cottage design should be warm and welcoming, but not overwhelming. Also make sure that the size of your prints matches the size of the fabric or furniture it is covering.
Match the Small with the Bold.
If you have some tiny spaces or corners in your house, they need not be negligent or unnoticeable. What you can do is to paint little spaces in bright, bold colors and they will pop out proudly. You can even use this way to divide spaces and give you extra storage places. Paint hallways and closets unexpectedly. Cottage design gives you the opportunity to play with whim, so use this to your advantage.
In With the Old, In With the New.
Keep both old and new elements. Don’t be afraid to mix contemporary with vintage. You can have the latest gadgets and appliances and yet blend them with an antique telephone or your well-worn writing desk. Don’t throw out old typewriters and pieces of china, but let them work hand in hand with your brand-new things. Play with your own design ideas. This gives the rooms an unpredictable, highly original character.
Open Your Shelves to the World.
Remove the doors of your kitchen cabinets and other such storage cabinets. Even your recipe books and plates can make colorful statements, plus they are more easily accessible. You can also play with display cupboards in other rooms of the house, and fill it with a colorful assortment of random knickknacks like wedding giveaways, collections, and travel souvenirs.
Simply Remember Your Favorite Things.
As I mentioned earlier, cottage design has a lot to do with YOUR personal style. To make your home a testimony to “you”, surround yourself with your favorite things. Make statements with your beloved works of art, books, and items of sentimental value such as gifts from the people in your life. Hand-crafted things are a beautiful addition. Some design ideas are to use those doilies your granny knitted way back then, or recycle that patchwork quilt that you and your friends worked on at summer camp. It will give you that relaxing sense of familiarity.
Once you have given your home that basic cottage feel, it will become a delightful continuing process. Every now and then, you will come across a little something or other that will make a fine addition, or discover new cottage decorating ideas.