The Relaxed Cottage Look

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

17 Jun 2008 10:05 AM

I love decor that has a fresh, relaxed look, is light and airy and reminds me of a summer cottage. Blame it on the fact that I lived in New England across the road from a lake and down a few more roads to the ocean shore. The summers there were wonderful: warm but with cooling breezes and the scents of cliff roses mixed with the scent of the sea.

The feeling was very casual, as if you could come in from watching the sunset over the water, enter the house, kick off your flip flops and flop yourself down on a comfy couch. It was a relaxed atmosphere. Here are some tips on getting a relaxed cottage look, even if you are miles away from the sand. Keep the accessories to a bare minimum. Less stuff to look at is more relaxing to the eye and the body. Avoiding overcrowding of stuff and clutter is key. Instead, choose a few bold pieces for the room and let them become the focus.

Comfortable furniture is a must have for the relaxed cottage look. You'll want furniture with deep cushions. This will invite you, family and friends to just sink in and relax. Make sure that the fabrics are stain resistant or washable. Slip covers that can be removed and then thrown into the wash are ideal. To create the right mood, mix old and new furnishings an accessories, such as a rough pine table with some new white porcelain. Avoid sleek pieces unless you want a more contemporary look.

What colors should you choose? Think of cool colors and the sea. Start with neutral colors that remind you of sand, such as beige and taupe, and then add the blue or green as an accent. For a bolder look, choose a deep cobalt blue in small does, such as a vase.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. Starting June 1st, don't miss her articles in the Baby Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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