Baby boomers have created a new lifestyle trend over the past decade that has caught on like wildfire: the escape to the countryside. With disposable income to spare, and a need to escape the breakneck speed of everyday life, more and more Americans are purchasing a cottage or cabin within commuting distance from home. This is a great way to rest and relax – close enough to go every weekend but far enough to fend off the evils of modern living.
Whether it’s the status of the Hampton’s or seclusion in the Rocky Mountains, nothing heals the weary soul faster than a quiet weekend at the cottage; swimming, sunbathing, talking and recharging. Your home away from home should be decorated to reflect that carefree alternate lifestyle.
There are no hard and fast rules of interior design for the cottage. This is a great place to have fun and do things that you wouldn’t dare try in your everyday home. You can experiment with color, textures and furniture. There is only one real rule… don’t take it too seriously and don’t decorate to the point where it no longer looks like a cottage.
Just remember to keep comfort and recreation as your inspiration when planning your cottage’s interior design.
If there is a lot of exposed beams and wood in your weekend abode, let it shine – don’t cover it up with drywall. Part of the charm of a country retreat is how it blends and harmonizes with the great outdoors.
For coziness, use throw rugs and lots of overstuffed pillows in the bedroom and living areas. Choose furniture that are darker in color, won’t stain and are hardwearing if you have pets or children. Shop for fabrics that offer tactile appeal such as chenille, cotton knit and sheepskin to give your cabin a lived in and comfortable appeal.
Dinner at the cottage should also be relaxed and informal. There are many companies that make fun pottery and ceramic dinnerware that is perfect for cottage life such as Fiesta, a pottery company that sells bright and vibrant dishes and accessories. Big jugs filled with wildflowers, oversized bowls brimming with fresh fruit – these are all perfect for your weekend retreat.
Don’t forget the outside of your cottage either… big comfortable Adirondack chairs, loungers and hammocks are perfect for lazing away the hours with a good book. Plant flowers that require very little care but still offer color and quaintness to your cottage’s exterior. If you don’t have a fireplace outside, purchase a large chimenea or copper fire pit for evening enjoyment.
For the cottage bedroom, nothing less than lofty duvets and fluffy pillows will do. Create a space that is inviting and ideal for staying in bed late on a Sunday morning. Add a bookstand to the bedroom or bedside so you have easy access to your favorite reading materials without getting out of bed.
No matter how you choose to decorate your cabin, chalet or cottage, do it with a sense of fun and adventure, and stamp your distinct personality in all that you do. It is one of the true decorating adventures where you can truly go crazy, do whatever tickles your fancy and get away with it.
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