Cottage Love #24

So... Most of you have seen my little ranch. (We have done quite a bit of work since this photo - I will share an update soon)  After my divorce, my goal was to buy a small home near the beach for my kids and I. I've been slowly (as I can) fixing it up!! It is pretty close to finally being finished. I need to add some finishing touches, purchase a few pieces of furniture, revamp a bathroom shower, rework a three season room, paint the exterior. I basically re-did the entire home. This list may seem long, but to me, the end is in sight!

I'm always excited when I come across another small"ish" home. I love larger, beautiful homes but I couldn't buy one for a number of reasons, plus the upkeep would have killed me. I also find smaller homes cozy and inviting.

This month's Better Homes and Gardens shares an adorable cottage bungalow in California. ( you know how I feel about Cali and right about now I wish I lived there!)

Chelsea and Greg Shukov own this adorable home. Chelsea also co-owns the fabulous stationery shop, Sugar Paper  - Los Angeles.  The interior designer that helped with the project was: Leslie Hunt.

The article specifically highlights a "live-in" kitchen area. The square footage shown encompasses a kitchen, family room and eating area. When living in a smaller home, each zone needs to be well planned out. I think they have done a beautiful job! The white washed vaulted ceilings really help this home feel more spacious.

Here is the "before shot" of my unfinished three season porch. All winter it ended up being more of a dumping ground since it was far too cold to sit out there. I plan to paint the room (if it ever warms up) and all of the woodwork a warm white color. I'll add more pillows and a new light fixture too. I would like to eventually winter-ize the room by adding heat, all new windows, a new wall to wall seagrass rug and french doors. I will probably try to raise the ceiling too. After those design changes it will be used as a small family room. I certainly could use the extra living space! 

** I'll be sure to share the updates. (I can't convert the entire room yet) ;)

Cottage Love #23

You know I have a love for smaller homes that are beautifully finished. They tend to pack a punch but don't take as much time to maintain! California Bungalows are up there as one of my favorites. In fact, I'd most likely move out west if I didn't worship my family here in Massachusetts. (I also can't leave now until my children are 18) Don't get me wrong there are so many things I love about the Boston area but after this winter a longer warm season would be much appreciated!!
This lovely home is that of comedic writer Erin Foster. Her new show, Barely Famous, airs on VH1. I'm loving the light, layered style. It feels fresh, updated and attainable.
I was actually working on a project today with a similar feel! Erin hired designers from the company Spruce. I also have to mention that DOMAINE is one of my favorite online design magazines! They never disappoint! I think I'll be tuning into her show tonight @9:30/8:30Central.

Cottage Love #22

I took a quick business trip to Chicago last Friday for my Ace Hardware design expert gig! We filmed a short studio segment. It was fun! I always take the opportunity to catch up on some magazine reading while I am traveling.. Like you, I'm tiring of the frozen tundra that I call home!  I rely on a bit of escapism to lift my spirits.

I was thrilled to see in the March issue of HGTV Magazine, an article featuring home owner Natalie Lea's colorful Houston ranch. Natalie worked closely with designer Bailey McCarthy on the project. The overall inspiration of Natalie's home pays tribute to her mother, who passed away of cancer. Natalie's abode brightened my day. I hope it does the same for you. Just look at all the beautiful design details! Natalie's interior designer, Bailey McCarthy, is also the creator of Biscuit Home. - be sure to check her great shop and bedding line out! xx

This front door and wall paper are fabulous. I need a front door with so many glass windows. It's a great way to add more light to your home.

After seeing this, I am so happy I ordered brass pulls to my kitchen design!!

Photographs by: David A, Land

Take me away...Cottage Love #19

The sights and sounds outside as I pen this post are of five foot snow drifts and howling winds. My coastal town was hit pretty hard by the storm and the high tides. Many people had to be evacuated this morning. I am thankful that I live far enough from the tides and that I am still with power...

I have no plans to travel to a warm climate this winter. (We may try to sneak away to Florida for a long weekend but nothing is planned) I do however dream of tropical beaches and warm sunny days. I have never been to Harbour Island but you can bet it's on the top of my travel list.

This home designed by Allesandra Branca is a chic, colorful, cheery getaway. Just what we all could use by the end of January in New England!

 Images via Lonny Magazine. 

Cottage Love 18...

As I wrap up my home design, I'm looking to refine, purge, clean and tweak my existing ideas. Editing is a final and important step when designing or revamping your home. The art of taking items away is just as important as adding details. I've been spending some time to get re-inspired. I'm about to order a sofa and new kitchen chairs so I want to make sure I'm very happy with my choices. I am also finishing Emerson's room. (which is almost complete!)

Today I'm sharing Sasha Seymour's fresh and cleaned line home..I am especially loving the vintage light fixtures mixed with the limed wood in the kitchen. Enjoy! all images via Canadian House and Home

 

Cottage Love #17

As you know I'm a sucker for a pretty home. Designer Beth Blake and husband Corbin Day's Sag Harbor retreat is colorful, whimsical and an iconic Greek Revival, New England cottage. Enjoy!
Images and more info. here. Also, check out their dress line, Thread.