From the West coast to the East Coast, I think most Canadian’s would
agree the ultimate summer past-time is cottaging! That being true, one
might say the second favourite past-time is searching for that ultimate
summer cottage to call your own, but often the reality of what’s
available or affordable can look more daunting than dreamy. In honour
of Canada Day I’ve compiled my top 10 favourite ways to update and
transform a dated, dysfunctional drab cottage interior into your dream
retreat, without the need to take a sledgehammer to it.
 |
| Image Source: http://carolreeddesign.blogspot.com/2015/06/cottage-make-over-tips.html |
1. Tame the Wood: Wood on wood on wood, topped with more wood,,,is simply too much wood. Everything in wood looks like a sea of brown (or orange). If you love wood,,,,,then paint some of it out, this will in turn highlight the natural unpainted wood so it can be appreciated for all its beauty, not drowned out.
2. Clean Sweep: Remove wall to wall broadloom and replace it with a light to medium coloured character grade wood plank or natural stone tile like slate. These will be durable, forgiving, easy to clean and age well. Layer natural fibre area carpets and flat weave kilims for added comfort and coziness.
3. Unobstruct the Views: Strip the windows of fussy ruffled fabric or boxy valances and heavy dark coloured blinds. Replace with retractable rollup blinds, shades or swing open shutters. Alternately or additionally add simple cotton or linen drapery panels on a dark metal or wood rod that fully open to reveal the outdoors.
4. Counter Points: Many old cottages have plastic laminate, tile or plywood counters that are chipped and stained. A new wood counter will add instant quality and substance. Custom made ones can vary greatly in price point depending on species, joinery and edge details but you can also find ready made and easy to install basic solid wood countertop material at most building supply stores. Perfectly suitable and charming for Kitchens and bathrooms.
Read more on http://carolreeddesign.blogspot.com/2015/06/cottage-make-over-tips.html
