This Cozy Cape Cod Cottage Has "Nooks and Crannies Galore"

This article explores the charming Lydia cottage located on Nantucket’s Old North Wharf, a 343-square-foot former fish shanty that now serves as a beloved summer retreat. The cottage's exterior is characterized by a white picket fence adorned with hydrangeas, leading to a powder blue Dutch door, creating an inviting summer aesthetic. Situated steps away from the harborside town and offering views of Nantucket Sound, the cottage embodies easy summer living. Its interior is featured in the new book, "Nantucket Looms: A Legacy of Style," by Nantucket Looms, a retail store and design studio known for its handwoven textiles and East Coast style. The Lydia cottage, named after a whaling ship, dates back to the 1870s, originally built to replace structures lost in the Great Fire of 1846. These shanties were later converted into artist studios, summer cottages, and picnic houses in the early twentieth century. Old North Wharf is unique as the only residential and privately owned wharf among Nantucket’s five wharves. The cottage’s design elements reflect its rich history and nautical surroundings, including a haint blue port of entry, latch windows, and a paint-splattered floor—a nod to early 1900s Yankee ingenuity and classic enamelware. Vintage Nantucket Looms pieces, such as a tote bag, a CPO jacket, and an American flag embellished with scallop shells by Master Weaver Rebecca Jusko Peraner, are thoughtfully integrated into the decor. The interior design emphasizes comfort and coastal charm. The living room features a Malawi barrel cane chair and a sofa upholstered in linen pinstripe fabric, complemented by denim Belgian linen fringe pillows, a mandala-inspired hand-blocked lumbar pillow, and a handwoven cashmere throw in a dune hue. A highly sought-after Red Sail painting by Robert Stark Jr., an artist who previously had a studio on Old North Wharf, adds artistic flair. The cottage also boasts original awning windows, allowing fresh air even during rain, and a custom handwoven sisal rug. A rustic teak bowl on the coffee table holds antique glove spreaders, a fish-shaped comb, and old clothespins, alongside a dory model that mirrors Stark's painting. A classic striped Nantucket Looms cotton sweater and indigo apron further enhance the nautical theme. The ship’s galley-style kitchen displays island curiosities, including a pennant and an old Nantucket Wharf Rat Club mug, while a ship’s light illuminates the space, reinforcing its maritime connection. The cottage's addition features a modern chair beneath a haint blue ceiling, designed to be secured during stormy weather. The wall paint, a soft white hue, was specifically chosen to reflect the changing light and colors of the water and sky. Indoor-outdoor teak stools with woven seat covers accompany a weathered-pine console that serves as a snack table and offers additional storage. An adjacent deck provides an ideal spot for dining and observing the vibrant harbor life, encapsulating the relaxed summer atmosphere. The article also briefly mentions the nearby Wharf Rat Club, established in 1927 and officially named in 1971 after the Grateful Dead song. This club, known for its mysterious management and the requirement of telling a good story for entry, highlights the unique social fabric of Nantucket’s wharf community. Overall, the Lydia cottage is presented as a quintessential example of Nantucket's enduring charm, blending historical preservation with comfortable, stylish living, as showcased in the Nantucket Looms book. #NantucketCottage #TinyHomeLiving #CoastalDesign #NantucketLooms #HomeDecor #SmallSpaces #InteriorDesign #HistoricHomes #WharfLiving

Designer Ken Fulk meticulously restored a 19th-century cottage in Provincetown, Massachusetts, infusing it with a unique blend of nautical inspiration and vintage aesthetics. The objective of the restoration was to transform the small space into a visually expansive and personally curated haven, reflecting Fulk's distinct style. The design approach emphasizes a collected feel, evident in the numerous oil paintings that adorn almost every surface, including the backs of doors, which contribute to a sense of visual continuity and historical depth in spaces like the entryway. The dining area, for instance, foregoes window treatments to maximize natural light, effectively tempering the dark painted floors. An antique bridge table paired with thatched-seat chairs replaces conventional dining furniture, enhancing the cottage's vintage charm and optimizing space. This decision highlights the designer's commitment to both functionality and thematic consistency, proving that small spaces can be highly adaptable and stylish. In the kitchen, innovative storage solutions are employed to avoid bulky cabinetry. Over-the-door open shelving and wall-mounted storage systems allow Fulk to prominently display his collection of kitchen items, turning utilitarian objects into decorative elements. This strategy not only maintains an uncluttered appearance but also integrates personal touches into the functional areas of the home, reinforcing the theme of a curated living space. The bedroom showcases a design technique where the same saturated color is applied to the ceiling, trim, and walls. This monochromatic application eliminates visual breaks, creating an illusion of heightened ceilings and a more expansive feel within the compact room. A salvaged boat hatch repurposed as a light fixture further enhances the nautical ambiance, seamlessly tying the room's design to the cottage's harborside location and Fulk's maritime interests. Throughout the cottage, the careful selection of furniture, art, and decor elements works in concert to create a cohesive and charming interior that belies its small footprint, presenting a model for maximizing character and comfort in a limited area. #HarborsideCottage #TinyHouseDesign #NauticalDecor #VintageHome #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #KenFulk #CapeCod #HomeRestoration

This article details the transformation of a 470-square-foot guest house on Vashon Island, Washington, which lacked character and functionality. The client, originally from England, intended to use it as a peaceful retreat and eventual permanent home, planning to inhabit the guest house while the main farmhouse underwent renovations. The original guest house was described as built in a cost-conscious manner, lacking detailed design, material quality, and warmth. Its low ceilings made the space feel compressed and dark. Functionality was also a major concern, as the cottage lacked storage, laundry facilities, a dishwasher, and had a slippery bathroom floor. White Space Design Group, with designers Alexandria Childs and Brooke Prince, undertook a substantial space-planning phase for the renovation, focusing on working within the existing building envelope. The client's primary goals were to add storage, transition away from natural gas, and incorporate air conditioning, laundry, and a dishwasher. Additionally, the space needed areas for dining and working, all while maintaining the small footprint. Aesthetically, the client desired a fresh, inviting, and cozy feel with a farmhouse character, incorporating warm woods, natural stone, non-shiny surfaces, shaker cabinets, and traditional details mixed with clean lines, with a preference for the color blue. The design also aimed to complement the main house's existing farmhouse and coastal home aesthetic, referencing its paneling and built-ins. Key design elements implemented in the renovation include replacing the main entry door with a Dutch-style door to improve airflow, natural light, and serve as a barrier for pets. The entry ceiling was vaulted to create a more open feel, and paneling was added for texture and durability. A petite entry bench was incorporated for practical use. Durable luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed throughout for longevity, particularly with pets and guests. The main living area, which functions as living, dining, and office space, was furnished with carefully chosen pieces, such as a love seat, a slim console table for dining and work, an electric fireplace with a mounted TV, and floor-to-ceiling shelving for display. The kitchen, spanning the back wall of the living space, was designed to be highly functional despite its compact size. This was achieved by using smaller-than-standard appliances, including a single-basin farmhouse sink, dishwasher, oven with an induction cooktop, and a full-height pantry with an inner outlet for a microwave. Smart storage solutions, such as glass insets in upper cabinetry for visual lightness and paneled appliances to reduce visual clutter, were utilized. A plate rack above the sink added both charm and utility. In the primary bedroom, the ceiling was vaulted and a skylight installed to enhance natural light. Custom built-in storage, two full-height closets, and wall-mounted reading lights were added to maximize space and functionality. A low-profile queen bed was chosen to fit the limited depth, with integrated nightstands and headboard functionality. The bathroom was enlarged by repurposing space from the bedroom to accommodate a stackable washer/dryer and a custom vanity with increased storage. The shower was meticulously designed to double as a dog washing station. Outside, existing French doors leading to the deck were refreshed, effectively doubling the living space when open. The owner expressed satisfaction with the compact yet comfortable space, appreciating the attention to detail and finishes that integrate with the aesthetic of the main farmhouse. #PacificNorthwest #StorybookCottage #SmallSpaceDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FarmhouseStyle #FunctionalLiving #VashonIsland

This article explores nineteen distinct cozy nooks, ranging from reading corners to breakfast nooks and intimate seating areas, highlighting their unique charm and comfort. The selection showcases diverse architectural styles and design approaches from various locations worldwide, including Brooklyn, New York; Paris, France; Forest Hills, New York; Houston, Texas; Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts; Otago, New Zealand; Toronto, Canada; Austin, Texas; Ellsworth, Maine; Murray River, Australia; Pennsylvania; Portland, Oregon; the Swiss Alps; Burlington, Canada; Nevada City, California; Los Angeles, California; and Chicago, Illinois. Each example provides insight into how these small spaces are integrated into larger homes or commercial settings to enhance functionality and create inviting atmospheres. The article begins with Devoción in Brooklyn, a coffee roaster designed by LOT Office for Architecture Design, featuring a bright, airy, and greenery-filled interior with secluded nooks. Next, an artist's studio in Paris, France, transformed into a minimalist 484-square-foot family home, includes a reading nook adjacent to a 'cabin' workspace at the top of the stairs. In Forest Hills, New York, a renovated 1930s Tudor-style home, known as Tennis House, incorporates custom cabinetry and cozy reading nooks in the children's bedrooms. An outdated 1980s loft in Brooklyn, New York, reimagined by Isaac-Rae, features a floating limestone bench wrapping a column with integrated firewood storage and a cozy reading nook in the living room. Clay Coffey, founder of Isaac-Rae, notes the bench's success as a social lounging space. A stacked concrete home in Chile by Sofia von Ellrichshausen and Mauricio Pezo includes a sleeping nook and an east-facing window seat in its Sunrise suite, accessible by a ladder. The Meadow Beach House in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, designed to blend with its beachside meadow setting, offers five porches and an irregular floor plan with numerous nooks and alcoves for relaxation. A tiny cabin in Otago, New Zealand, voted the country's Best Small Home in 2016, is inspired by nautical design elements, such as a kitchen nook resembling a captain's workstation, with a sleeping platform above. A Houston, Texas residence, inspired by Tadao Ando, incorporates a built-in reading nook in the library. House Grace in Toronto, Canada, a renovated and expanded family home, features a window nook on an upper level that overlooks the neighborhood. In Austin, Texas, a 1920s bungalow with a modern addition includes an office nook tucked under the stairs, with an Eames chair serving as a cherished family heirloom. An architect's forest home outside Ellsworth, Maine, has a window seat in the living room that functions as a cozy reading spot, designed to allow cross breezes and ventilation. A renovated houseboat on the Murray River in Australia demonstrates efficient use of its 495 square feet through stealth storage and a nature-inspired color palette, creating inviting spaces. A shipping container home in Pennsylvania utilizes salvaged wood for a sun-filled reading nook in the homeowner's third-floor office. An energy-efficient home in Portland, Oregon, boasts a vibrant yellow custom-built reading nook, adding a playful splash of color. A rustic-meets-modern chalet in the Swiss Alps features a spruce alcove with wool-covered custom seating and Nendo’s Innerblow coffee tables. The Delaware House in Burlington, Canada, described as sophisticatedly simple, incorporates a reading nook with a skylight, enhancing the interior with natural light and views. A net-zero home in Nevada City, California, cleverly utilizes space with a cozy reading nook fitted beneath the stairs. A bohemian tiny house remodel in Los Angeles, California, includes a nature-infused breakfast nook with a built-in bench seat and vintage furnishings. Finally, a renovated condo in Chicago, Illinois, features a media center nook with concrete shelving for cookbooks and a ventilated computer cabinet, highlighting personalized touches throughout the small home. #CozyNooks #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ReadingNooks #SmallSpaces #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeRenovation #ModernHomes #CustomCabinetry

The article details the transformation of Marian Parsons' suburban Cape Cod home from a characterless, cookie-cutter house into a layered, inviting, and cohesive space with a classic country aesthetic. Marian, known for her blog Miss Mustard Seed, leveraged her resourceful upbringing as an Army brat to implement budget-minded DIY solutions throughout the home. The renovation focused on thoughtfully restored furniture, carefully collected accents, and a consistent blue and white color palette. The family room is anchored by a cane-back sofa upholstered in blue buffalo-check. In the kitchen, a high-impact chalkboard wall complements a mudroom area featuring raw oak floors, which functions as both a desk and a drop-off zone. The dining room showcases Marian's creativity, with a table crafted from an antique potting bench and an old barn door. She emphasizes embracing imperfections in her painted furniture and uses antique grain sacks to create nubby table runners. Worn Currier & Ives prints are elevated with oversized mats, and an unsightly electrical cord is disguised with a linen sleeve. The living room features a Gustavian-style sofa, a $100 thrift-store find, covered in durable antique hemp sheets. An old factory cart with original blue and white paint is repurposed as a coffee table, and a jute rug adds texture. A Craigslist-sourced step-back hutch is painted in blue shades from Marian's own milk paint line. The master bedroom prominently displays the home's blue and white theme. Five yards of P. Kaufmann fabric, purchased with a discount, are starched onto the wall, a technique Marian learned from her mother to mimic wallpaper. A discarded storage cabinet is transformed into a side table with an ornate stencil to resemble an inlaid antique. Ironstone plates from her china cabinet serve as unique wall art above the Belgian linen headboard, and a bolster pillow made from a vintage grain sack adds charm. For the master bathroom, a characterless vanity was replaced with a $35 Craigslist dresser, which husband Jeff adapted to accommodate a sink and sealed with Waterlox. In the boys' room, a vintage sports theme is created using photos from Marian's grandfather's college tennis days, displayed in affordable Ikea frames alongside his actual tennis rackets. An antique golf club serves as a curtain rod, and vintage pennants form a valance, creating an inexpensive yet stylish window treatment. The walls are painted in Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore. The guest bedroom features a $40 accent wall made from MDF panels, simulating shiplap. This room is completed with antique linens, including red check curtains, a grain sack-upholstered armchair, and a blue-and-white quilt. The guest bathroom, once deemed the nation's ugliest, is revitalized with beadboard paneling and a collection of vintage finds, including an antique painter's tray, mounted antlers, and ironstone pieces, all thoughtfully arranged under the eaves. #HomeDesign #CapeCod #DIYHomeDecor #BudgetRenovation #VintageFinds #MarianParsons #CountryStyle #RepurposedFurniture #BlueAndWhiteDecor

Sacha Janke and Andrew McCormack, after spending their youth and subsequent summers renting in Woods Hole, acquired a beachfront property with the intention of establishing a permanent family retreat. The property, which had been uninhabited for some time, required the construction of a new shingle-style house, designed by architect Shope Reno Wharton, on the existing footprint. To define the interior aesthetic, the couple enlisted their friend, designer Douglas Graneto, who focused on integrating a vibrant color palette reflective of the coastal environment. Graneto employed various shades of blues and greens to bring the outdoor scenery indoors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that moved beyond purely neutral tones, aligning with Janke and McCormack's preference for color. The home was conceived as a space for relaxation and togetherness, accommodating both adults and children. The kitchen functions as a central hub, frequently used by Janke and McCormack to prepare meals for large family and friend gatherings. It features pale green cabinets, specifically painted in Farrow & Ball's “Mizzle,” fitted with brass hardware, and counters and a backsplash made of Fantastico Arni marble. A cast-bronze sink complements a brass pot rack in the room's center, from which McCormack's collection of copper pots is displayed. The adjacent great room is furnished with a pair of vintage, curved Milo Baughman sofas, providing a comfortable gathering area. A window seat in a nearby nook was specifically deepened at Andrew's request to serve as an ideal napping spot. The couple’s strong affinity for Nordic design heavily influenced the aesthetic choices. This is evident in the vintage Swedish rug in the second-floor hallway, a Danish rosewood chair and ottoman in the primary bedroom, and Hans Wegner reproduction dining table and chairs made of raw oak, which are expected to develop a patina with age. Art is a significant element of the design, introducing color, drama, and conversation points throughout the rooms. To highlight these artworks, Graneto chose a neutral backdrop, painting the walls in Benjamin Moore's “Chantilly Lace” with Fine Paints of Europe white trim. Janke and McCormack share a passion for collecting art, often agreeing on selections, and enjoy sharing their diverse collection with their children and friends. The family celebrated their first summer in the house with a continuous flow of guests, indicating the success of the collaborative design process. A unique feature of the home is a concealed room under the stairs on the lower level, inspired by Janke's childhood home with its secret bookshelves. Douglas Graneto brought this idea to life with a Designers Guild wallcovering called “Enchanted Forest,” creating a delightful surprise for both children and adults. Key contributors to the project included Shope Reno Wharton as the architect, Ruth Catone Goulding as the art consultant, KVC Builders, Douglas Graneto Design for interior design, and Kaylei McGaw as the photo stylist. #WoodsHole #CapeCod #NordicDesign #NewEnglandHome #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #FamilyHome #ArtCollection #HiddenRoom

The coastal-cottage aesthetic is emerging as a prominent interior design trend for spring 2025, according to Jennifer Ebert, digital editor at Homes & Gardens. This style draws inspiration from serene landscapes and seascapes, blending the traditional beauty of New England design with a tranquil seaside feel. It offers a relaxed and calming ambiance, making it a desirable choice for home refreshes after winter. The article highlights how this aesthetic can be achieved affordably, particularly through products available at Walmart, catering to both apartment dwellers and homeowners on a budget. The coastal-cottage trend emphasizes oceanic elements and nautical accents, suitable for integration throughout various areas of a home, including bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, and patios. For the bedroom, key components include embroidered blue bedding and sea-glass lamps, creating a fitting centerpiece. These can be complemented by ocean-themed wall art and cedar- and vanilla-scented candles for a complete, serene atmosphere. Specific product recommendations from Walmart include the Better Homes & Gardens Matelassé Quilt in blue floral, Stupell Industries Beach Landscape Painting by Christy McKee, Cinkeda Coastal Table Lamps (Set of 2) with USB ports, and the Better Homes & Gardens Coastal Cove Scented Candle. In the living room, the aesthetic features furniture in teal, sand, and cream hues, paired with decorative seashell-filled lamps. These elements are chosen to evoke a sense of coastal elegance and relaxation. Suggested items from Walmart include The Pioneer Woman Laurel Tufted Sofa in teal velvet, Mainstays Two-Toned Square Throw Pillow, Pioneer Woman Harper Spindle Accent Chair in antique white, and a 360 Lighting Coastal Accent Table Lamp, which can be filled with seashells. These selections aim to create a cohesive and inviting living space. The dining room can adopt a classic nautical blue and white theme, particularly suitable for kitchenware. This theme is further enhanced when combined with rustic tables and woven-seagrass chairs, contributing to a charming coastal-cottage feel. Product suggestions include the Merrick Lane Antique Solid Pine Dining Table, The Pioneer Woman Colette Scallop Blue 12-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set, Better Homes & Gardens Cotton Waffle-Weave Kitchen Towels (4 Pack) in washed indigo, and My Texas House Laurel Dining Chairs with Woven Seagrass Seat (2 Pack). Extending the coastal-cottage aesthetic to outdoor spaces like the patio helps maintain a cohesive design throughout the property. An outdoor table set and a scalloped blue umbrella are recommended to create an inviting area for lounging. The Better Homes & Gardens Astrid 3-Piece Outdoor Sofa & Table Set, Better Homes & Gardens 9' Blue Scallop Patio Umbrella, Stylehouse 100% Cotton Natural Jute Pouf, and Better Homes & Gardens Caribbean Sea Breeze Oversized Ceramic Candle are highlighted as suitable additions for an oceanic patio oasis. These product recommendations enable consumers to transform their homes into tranquil, ocean-inspired havens, reflecting the popular coastal-cottage style. #CoastalCottage #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #SpringTrends #AffordableDecor #WalmartHome #NauticalAccents #HomeRefresh

This article explores the transformation of a rental cottage in the English countryside, named Charlotte’s Folly, into a whimsical and magical retreat, as envisioned by London-based interior designer Emma Ainscough. The exterior of the three-bedroom property features 'gingerbread-like' decorative barge boards, lattice windows, and a pastel pink facade, all newly added to create a storybook aesthetic. Ainscough's design brief focused on blending this playful, dollhouse-like appearance with practical, space-saving solutions necessary for a vacation rental. The renovation involved significant changes to the ground-floor layout to improve flow and functionality. The main living room was opened up to the dining space, and double doors were installed to connect to the garden. In the kitchen, the sink was repositioned to a side wall to maximize counter space. Ainscough also addressed structural challenges, such as slanted beams in the shower that could not be moved, by cleverly tiling over them. A key design challenge was fitting desired amenities, such as bathtubs in both bathrooms, into small spaces, which led to an embrace of cozy cottage vibes. Key design decisions highlighted in the article include the selection of an unusually slim farmhouse dining table to fit the small dining area, sourced from a UK antiques supplier. This table’s natural timber tones complement the room’s brown palette. The dining room also features a bold striped wallpaper by Hamilton Weston and a bespoke dried floral installation by Myrtle Fox & Maude, a combination that Ainscough admits was a risk due to the small space but ultimately proved successful in creating a harmonious color scheme. Another detail that required client persuasion was the checkerboard tile covering an entire wall above the kitchen units, a bold choice that ultimately contributed to the cottage's unique character. For hardware and accessories, Ainscough discovered Mark Lewis, whose high-quality cast bronze pieces were used throughout the kitchen cabinetry and bathrooms. The designer also leveraged Glassette, an online platform for small businesses and artisans, to source unique smaller items like table lamps, cushions, and throws. In the bedrooms, space planning presented further challenges. For instance, the long and thin blue bedroom required a creative approach to accommodate a super-king-size bed, leading to the creation of a cozy, cocoon-like nook with a tented ceiling that featured a central pendant lamp and draped fabric. The green bedroom, featuring a 'Creeping Toadflax' wallpaper by Living Quarters, is identified as Ainscough's favorite space, with the wallpaper extending across the ceiling to enhance the room's magical and delicate mood, despite the added cost. The project also incorporated budget-friendly finds, such as a vintage kidney dressing table from eBay that was reupholstered to maintain a vintage feel while allowing for custom fabric work. #EnglishCottage #InteriorDesign #WhimsicalDecor #SpaceSavingSolutions #RentalProperty #HomeRenovation #EmmaAinscough #DesignChallenges #VintageFinds

The Wallis family, consisting of Jenna, an internationally acclaimed interior designer and owner of Jenna Wallis Interior Design, and her husband Ed, purchased a 1940s English cottage in the Hedgemoor neighborhood of Memphis with a vision to transform it into a serene and classic retreat for their family, including their two boys. Despite its charming exterior, the cottage required extensive renovation to accommodate a modern family while preserving its original character. After living in the house for about four years, the Wallises engaged Ryan Anderson of RKA Investments, a Memphis builder known for restoring older homes, and architect Charles Shipp to lead the renovation. Jenna's design philosophy centered on blending the old with the new, maintaining the home's classic charm while introducing contemporary elements. A significant challenge involved literally lifting the existing structure to create an open, airy space. The renovation team, including Ryan Anderson's business partner Chris Clark, worked collaboratively to achieve Jenna's vision, which included raising the living area's 9-foot ceilings to 11 feet to enhance natural light and spaciousness. Eight-foot windows were installed, flanking a custom fireplace, above which a vibrant painting by Atlanta artist Sally King Benedict became a focal point. Key areas of the home were meticulously redesigned. The kitchen was transformed with custom cabinetry extending to the ceiling for maximum storage, a beveled subway tile backsplash, and honed Carrara marble countertops. Jenna opted for unlacquered brass hardware, which develops a natural patina over time, to align with the home's original aesthetic. A breakfast nook, connecting the living area and kitchen, features sleek white walls, a streamlined banquette, and a rustic farmhouse table complemented by a brass globe chandelier. A framed 1966 Andy Warhol-designed Campbell's Soup dress, inherited from Ed's grandmother, adds a whimsical touch to this space. Throughout the living areas, white walls serve as a gallery for the Wallises' extensive art collection, which includes pieces by Memphis artist Megan Hurdle. In the parlor, a soft mint green ceiling, inspired by one of Hurdle's mixed-media works, adds a subtle color accent. Jenna's favorite space, her downstairs study, is distinguished by pale, high-gloss blue lacquered walls, a French pedestal desk, whimsical peacock figurines, and a modern brass starburst chandelier. Custom-built bookshelves by RKA Investments house the family's book collection, while art consultant Anna Wunderlich assisted in curating and displaying the family's diverse artwork, including a collection of oils and watercolors from Paris. The guest bedroom features a bold coral lattice wallpaper on an accent wall, framing an upholstered headboard, alongside French dressers and draperies made from Jim Thompson silk. The master bath was conceived as a spa-like retreat, with gray and white marble, built-in mirrors, millwork surrounding a white vanity, and elegant brass hardware. Antique light fixtures were incorporated to maintain the home's period charm. The renovation extended to the exterior, with Ryan Anderson and his team salvaging stone to create a cozy fireplace on a spacious, screened-in porch, which has become an ideal gathering spot for the Wallis family and friends. The project culminated in a home that perfectly blends classic charm with modern functionality, fulfilling Jenna's five-year vision. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #MemphisHomes #CottageRenovation #JennaWallisDesign #RKAInvestments #LuxuryInteriors #ArtCollection

Ted Kennedy Watson, a Washington-based style expert, author, lifestyle blogger, and proprietor of Watson Kennedy stores, owns a 650-square-foot Vashon Island getaway in Puget Sound with his husband, Ted Sive. The couple named their retreat “WestWard” to personalize the space, a practice Ted highly recommends for any dwelling. Upon purchasing the property, it was in disrepair, characterized by dark interiors and an absence of appealing aesthetics. The couple decided to preserve the existing Americana theme, prompted by a 35-foot flagpole on the property and the home's rich red exterior. The name “WestWard” is subtly integrated into the home's decor, appearing both inside and out, symbolized by a pair of 'W's. To brighten the interior, French doors were installed, significantly increasing natural light. All dark, knotty pine surfaces were painted a crisp white, serving as a neutral backdrop for the red, white, and blue Americana accents. The living room features a sofa and chairs upholstered in ticking stripe fabric, with reversible cushions showcasing a red stripe. French dish towels were ingeniously repurposed to create a slipcover for the ottoman, showcasing creative solutions for furnishing a small space. The home also integrates various collections, such as an assortment of artwork above a red desk painted with stars and stripes. Storage is maximized through functional displays, exemplified by McCoy pottery on bookshelves, which doubles as hidden storage for small items like matches, old birds' nests, keys, and a wallet. The kitchen, designed for two cooking enthusiasts, balances functionality with style. It features stainless steel countertops and open upper shelving for easy access and display of kitchenware. A key element is a butcher-block-topped rolling island, which serves multiple purposes, from a prep station by the sink to a mobile bar on the deck. Creative storage solutions extend to a collection of jam jars, repurposed to store various household items like nuts, spices, and cough drops, highlighting the concept that anything can become a collection. The bedroom continues the nautical theme with seafaring flags, anchor pillows, and vintage lockers used as nightstands. Ted also created a sleeping porch, an outdoor bed in a covered area, ideal for enjoying the outdoors even in the rain. For waterside dining, Ted enjoys mixing vintage patterns for tableware, encouraging the use of mismatched silverware, plates, glasses, and napkins. Unique tabletop decor includes a collection of vintage pool balls, specifically those with the number 11, and natural elements like hydrangea leaves used as place cards. An adjacent tree house features a wall adorned with pages from vintage maritime and bird-watching books, an artistic touch by Amy Duncan that has withstood the elements over time. Despite the home's small footprint, various distinct areas like the downstairs landing, where Ted, Ted Sive, and their schnauzer Bailey relax, contribute to a feeling of spaciousness, ensuring the couple never feels constrained by the size of their home. #TinyHome #PugetSound #VashonIsland #AmericanaDecor #CoastalLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CreativeStorage #NauticalTheme

A couple from New York City, seeking a second home for multi-generational family gatherings, discovered a turn-of-the-20th-century Colonial cottage in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. The property, located on the scenic Saybrook Point peninsula within the North Cove Historic District, was appealing due to its preservation of maritime architecture and its unique position between the North Cove and the Connecticut River, earning it the name "Point of View." The wife, having been particularly impressed by the blue-and-white sitting room of a previously sought-after rural Connecticut home, recognized the need for an aesthetic overhaul for their new purchase. The existing interiors of the Old Saybrook cottage, characterized by dark colors like burgundy and yellow, did not align with its new role as a family-oriented summer retreat. She enlisted interior designer Jenny Wolf, whose work she had admired, to transform the space. Wolf, known for her ability to understand clients' lifestyles and her shop The Huntress, connected with the homeowners' appreciation for antiques, classic fabric patterns, and a casual yet sophisticated style. The design objective was to create a fresher, more transitional look and update the color palette while maintaining the historical integrity of the home through decorative changes. Wolf aimed to integrate the surrounding waterfront landscape into the interiors, using it as a primary source of inspiration for the design scheme. In the living room, for instance, Wolf painted the original paneled walls in a soft white with subtle gray undertones (Shadow White by Farrow & Ball) to brighten the space and emphasize the fireplace. The black-painted bricks of the fireplace were restored to their natural finish, and a stately mantel was installed to showcase the homeowners' antique ship, a direct reference to the town's maritime heritage. The mantel's dusky blue color (Philipsburg Blue by Benjamin Moore) was chosen to complement custom linen English roll arm sofas and to blend with the exterior water views visible from the opposing wall of windows. Eggshell tassel trim was added to the sofas to enhance their depth. Similarly, the sun-laden sitting room's design was heavily influenced by the scenic landscape. Wolf reinterpreted the blue-and-white palette that had initially captivated her client, opting for a light and airy ambiance. Dark burgundy wicker furniture, previously in the room, was replaced. The design deliberately avoided fussy window treatments to highlight the outdoor views. A Southern-inspired haint blue ceiling was introduced to balance a hand-painted checkerboard floor. Wolf employed playful fabrics, using a leading print complemented by ticking stripes and checks in each room to create a less formal atmosphere. Beyond the primary living areas, the designer ensured the home could accommodate large family gatherings by designing guest rooms with multiple beds or sleeper sofas, facilitating new memories for the homeowners' children and grandchildren by the water. #CoastalCottage #InteriorDesign #JennyWolf #OldSaybrook #MaritimeHistory #HomeDecor #ConnecticutHomes #FamilyHome #TransitionalDesign

The article showcases the 1799 Colonial-style cottage of interior designer Kari McCabe and architect Nate McBride in Stonington, Connecticut. The couple, who previously summered in the area, found this property in 2018. It had already undergone necessary renovations to the foundation and electrical systems, preserving its original character, including fireplaces, exposed beams, and rustic chestnut and oak floors. The home is situated amidst farmland, offering a serene, country living experience despite being only 10 minutes from the water. The renovation focused on infusing the cottage with personal touches, largely drawing from Kari's Scandinavian heritage and a collection of vintage family heirlooms. This approach involved incorporating Swedish rugs and textiles, along with a palette of vibrant colors and cheerful patterns, transforming the space into a joyful year-round residence. The exterior of the home was updated from a moss-green to a bright white, complemented by a blue front door and natural wood window frames. The side porch, now the main entrance, features a vintage Norwegian flag and a dog statue, reflecting family history and a playful nod to their Scottish terrier. The mudroom serves multiple functions as an entry and laundry room, designed with a waterproof rug and vibrant indoor-outdoor fabric curtains to conceal utility areas. The main living space, originally the primary bedroom, was expanded by removing a wall. It features a blend of high-end and affordable decor, such as an Isamu Noguchi paper lamp alongside IKEA bookshelves and vintage rattan furniture. The room is further adorned with a vintage Swedish rug, patterned textiles, and naive art from a Maine artist. Another living area combines sleek mid-century modern furniture with rustic wood beams and floors, creating an eclectic aesthetic. The dining room is distinctively decorated with an Indian dhurrie as a table covering, complementing the nature-inspired Josef Frank wallpaper and vintage pitchers on the mantel. Modern elements like a midcentury credenza and a Danish pendant light are integrated. The kitchen's breakfast nook offers views through ample windows and is furnished with a vintage trestle table and bentwood chairs, accented by Swedish pottery, a Scandinavian pendant, and a Josef Frank textile pillow. The kitchen itself, once dark, was brightened with pale gray cabinetry, open shelving, and modern lighting, removing elements that obstructed views. The primary bedroom features all-over wallpaper on both walls and ceiling, creating a cohesive, cocoon-like atmosphere, further enhanced by white-painted floors. Color is introduced through a patterned duvet, a handwoven Swedish rug, and artwork by Cornelia Foss. The guest bedroom continues the vibrant theme with garden-inspired wallpaper, a striped blanket, and a checked duvet, alongside a still life by Louisa Matthíasdóttir and a vintage Eames chair. The bathroom boasts botanical wallpaper, vintage French sconces, and a Swedish mirror, referencing the natural surroundings. Nate's office includes a vintage sawhorse desk, an Eames plywood chair, and an industrial lamp, while Kari's office features a Josef Frank curtain and family mementos. Finally, a newly added deck is furnished with vintage metal Woodard furniture and other collected pieces, extending the home's unique, collected aesthetic outdoors. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecorating #HouseTour #CoastalLiving #VintageDecor #ScandinavianDesign #ConnecticutHomes #Renovation #Wallpaper #EclecticStyle

This blog post details the transformation of a shingle-style home located just outside of Nantucket, Massachusetts, from a mountain lodge aesthetic to a classic, light, bright, and breathtakingly pretty beach house retreat. Originally built in the early 2000s, the home's interiors were characterized by natural and dark stained wood paneling and heavy iron fixtures. The new owner envisioned a seaside haven, and Boston-based interior designer Gary McBournie undertook the significant task of redesigning the interiors without major structural changes, completing the project in just six months. McBournie's approach focused on incorporating a traditional coastal palette of blues and whites, combined with contemporary freshness. The designer's primary strategy was to use extensive white paint to lighten the formerly dark spaces and to infuse the decor with soothing ocean-inspired colors and textures. The goal was to reflect the rich history of Nantucket while maintaining a comfortable, non-museum-like atmosphere. The transformation began with the patio, where ample seating from Janus et Cie was introduced, complemented by side tables for enjoying the ocean views, emphasizing the importance of outdoor spaces in beach house decor. The sunroom, previously a large mudroom and storage area, was reimagined as a cozy, sheltered space for appreciating the seascape. Sunroom ideas included basket and rattan furniture with ocean blue upholstery and scatter pillows. Drapery treatments were added to doorways to create a sense of balance and nook-like intimacy. A locally-produced woven rag rug by Hillary Anepole provided charm and a nod to the island’s weaving history, with the sofa sourced from Todd Hase Furniture. The kitchen underwent a significant overhaul to align with the new coastal theme. Dark wood paneling on the vaulted ceiling was painted white, instantly brightening the space. The existing commercial-feeling island was rebuilt with 'feet' to give it a residential appearance and painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Blue Jean.' Sparking white quartz counters, reminiscent of sand and ocean foam, replaced the old ones. Sconces from Soane Britain and a pendant from Guinevere were installed, along with Roman shades in blue and white cotton from Peter Fasano, adding softness. Counter stools from Serena & Lily completed the look. A key challenge in the living room was the imposing stone fireplace, which strongly evoked a 'mountain house' feel. McBournie addressed this by hanging a pair of Scabetti fish chandeliers in glazed and unglazed bone china in front of the fireplace, accompanied by a large round mirror to reflect the shimmering fish and light. The open-plan living area was subtly separated from the kitchen and dining space by an antique English oak sideboard, which was topped with a glass cylinder filled with native grasses and a whale vertebra to enhance the sense of place. The furnishings were chosen to be substantial yet light in spirit, featuring a large sofa in light blue tweed and smaller sofas in deep blue, with Bielecky Brothers lounge chairs upholstered in the same fabric as the window treatments to reinforce the summer house ambiance. The dining room explicitly embraced coastal style with jaunty chair cushions, a large custom white dining table, and blue and white upholstered bamboo chairs. Mid-century consoles with hand-painted shell and wave motifs by local artist Diedre Mannix and Anglo-Indian lanterns grouped at staggered heights further enhanced the nautical theme. The primary bedroom, with its harbor views, adopted a light and breezy scheme, incorporating Lockhart wallpaper from Peter Fasano and pale blue linen window treatments. Checked fabric from Schumacher was used for a chair, accent pillows, and a window seat, with additional furnishings from Oomph Home, Nantucket Looms, and Norbar. The second guest bedroom introduced a change of mood, drawing inspiration from pastoral views and incorporating various shades of green. An antique campaign chest and nautical engravings in white frames contributed to an English feel, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Fresh Dew' and Soane Britain’s 'Scrolling Fern Frond' fabric custom-colored for the headboard and window treatments. The third bedroom blended harbor and pastoral views with a vintage floral theme, inspired by an impressionist beach scene painting. A pink strie wallpaper from Farrow & Ball and a vintage Brunschwig & Fils floral fabric created a soft background, complemented by crisp white Leontine Linens with pink embroidery and a pink gourd lamp from Christopher Spitzmiller with a Blanche Field lampshade. Finally, the outdoor terrace and porch lawn, with basket chairs from Janus et Cie's Arbor collection featuring ocean blue cushion fabrics, completed the transformation. Gary McBournie successfully eradicated the mountain-lodge aesthetic, replacing it with fresh, calm, and uplifting coastal interiors that offer a stunning new lease of life to the home. The design skillfully references traditional old island hotels while incorporating sensitive touches of contemporary seaside themes, creating a harmonious blend of familiarity and refreshing new design. #NantucketHome #BeachHouseStyle #CoastalInteriors #HomeTransformation #InteriorDesign #GaryMcBournie #SeasideRetreat #BlueAndWhiteDecor #TraditionalCoastal

With winter approaching, many individuals are adapting their homes to maximize both functionality and comfort. While practical additions like dishwashers and soundproofing for Zoom rooms are common, enhancing the cozy aspect of living spaces is equally important. This article explores five creative nap nook ideas designed to elevate the lounging experience, moving beyond the traditional bed for daytime relaxation. One concept, dubbed "The Bookworm Hideaway," exemplifies a quaint cottage aesthetic. Architect Gil Schafer, known for his ability to capture the essence of such spaces, integrated a built-in nook into a great room during the renovation of an old YMCA camp in Mill Valley, California. This nook includes practical blanket storage and shelving for books, creating a dedicated area for reading and relaxation. Interior designer Rita Konig further enhanced the coziness with Pendleton blankets, plaid pillows, and duck-egg-hued shiplap, designing a corner intended for prolonged comfort. Another option is "The Napping Spot With a View," presented by Commune Design. This wood-paneled room features a built-in bench with a blue cushioned pillow serving as the primary lounging area. The design incorporates limewashed walls and shibori pillows for a textured, lived-in feel, complemented by a basket of blankets and book-filled shelves. This setup encourages a relaxing weekend ambiance, ideally with an interesting view. The article also highlights "The Architectural Niche," demonstrating how existing architectural features can inspire unique cozy spaces. Nick Blaine and Paul Denoly, cofounders of Hawkins New York, transformed a recessed nook in their upstate New York farmhouse by painting it a deep burgundy. This color choice created a striking contrast with the lighter paneled room, inviting occupants to curl up in the distinctive, architecturally defined space. "The Sprawling Sectional" showcases a mid-century post-and-beam house in Los Angeles, where Frances Merrill of Reath Design installed a low-slung, L-shaped daybed. This piece is upholstered in a colorful striped fabric and set against warm wood paneling, plum-hued beams, and an array of breezy linen curtains. The combination of these elements provides an ideal environment for extended periods of relaxation. Finally, "The Dark and Cozy Corner" redefines a conventional space. In a New York City Kips Bay Show House, Damian and Britt Zunino of Studio DB designed a moody corner in a small room. They achieved this by painting the walls a dark blue-green and incorporating a curved banquette. A dramatic pendant lamp by Apparatus Studio further accentuates the intimate and enveloping atmosphere of this unique space, offering a departure from typical townhouse designs. #NapNooks #HomeComfort #CozySpaces #InteriorDesign #ReadingNooks #BuiltInFurniture #HomeRenovation #DesignInspiration #RelaxationSpots

Nineteen years ago, CK and Morgan Smith acquired their first large boat, which significantly altered their lifestyle. For nearly two decades, they consistently utilized their free time, primarily summer weekends, to engage in activities on Pickwick Lake. Their four children grew up considering Pickwick Lake a secondary home. Initially, the family docked their three-stateroom boat at Aqua Yacht Harbor, spending weekends living on the water. As the children matured, their desire for more friends and less time anchored on the boat led the Smiths to purchase a ski boat, increasing their active participation in lake activities. Approximately two years prior to this account, the Smiths decided to formalize Pickwick's status as a second home. They collaborated with architect Carson Looney of LRK and interior designer Cindy McCord of Cindy McCord Interior Design, Inc., to construct a dream house at Pickwick Lake, enabling them to enjoy lake life year-round. This residence was intended to offer a complete transition from their everyday lives, providing a sense of calmness immediately upon entering. Morgan expressed a desire for a "beach house" ambiance, contrasting with their Germantown home's French country style, which Cindy had designed 14 years earlier. Cindy drew inspiration from the sun-washed, laid-back, clean-lined residences of Florida’s Rosemary Beach community, a place the Smith family also frequented, effectively creating a "beach house at the lake." Their Germantown residence featured a warm color palette of yellows, corals, and browns. For the new lake house, they opted for a cooler scheme of grays, blues, and whites, resulting in a transitional aesthetic that blends clean lines with coziness and comfort. Morgan envisioned a space where the family and guests could relax comfortably. A weathered wood pedestal table seating eight was a must for Morgan, facilitating entertaining. Doors open fully from the dining space to a screened porch, which accommodates a long farmhouse table with casual cane-seat chairs, collectively seating 20 people. The spacious screened porch, which includes an L-shaped wicker sofa, two side chairs, a stone fireplace, and a mounted flat-screen TV, is a primary gathering spot for the family, usable even in winter thanks to heaters and the fireplace. Cindy McCord and Morgan Smith collaborated closely on the project, including several buying trips to Atlanta for antique and vintage pieces, such as a weathered workbench that adds texture and patina. The designer expressed satisfaction with every room, particularly noting the architectural features of the stairwell. The open living area seamlessly connects to the dining room and kitchen through wide openings framed by reclaimed wood beams, sourced from a Mississippi-based supplier. The kitchen features white cabinetry, white shiplap walls, pale countertops, and a rustic custom wood vent hood, complemented by oversized pendant lights above the island. The living room's stone fireplace extends to a whitewashed peaked wood ceiling, contributing to an airy and ethereal atmosphere. This soft, neutral color palette and inviting ambiance extend into the bedrooms. The master suite includes an upholstered headboard with a subtle pattern, white bedding, and neutral draperies, fostering a restful environment. A guest room showcases a nautical blue-and-white palette with patterned elements, while a large bunk room accommodates ten people with built-in beds and loft-like sleeping arrangements. The house can sleep 18 individuals in beds alone. A spacious entertainment area on the lower level provides extra seating, a bar, and a billiards room, serving as another gathering place for the family. The lake house represents a compromise, fulfilling CK's desire for a lake retreat and Morgan's wish for a beach house, creating a beloved space for family relaxation and entertainment. #BeachHouse #LakeHouse #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #RusticElegance #TransitionalStyle #PickwickLake #CindyMcCord #HomeFeatures