Cottage Love #71

I spent a much needed day home gardening, cleaning and relaxing. I am also happy to have time to squeeze in a blog post on a Sunday. I came across this fabulous backyard before and after today and ended up linking to the entire home. It's adorable....

I'm in the midst of my own back yard renovation. I did not have a peaceful spot to relax or dine outdoors in my current home. I've added a new deck (thanks, Dad!) which I plan stain a driftwood color and am in the process of creating a seating area, garden, and potted floral/herb arrangements. I've also purchased outdoor furniture and am refinishing a set of vintage dining chairs I scored years ago on the side of the road. I'll be sharing some progress shots over the next month on Instagram, if you'd like to follow along. 

I truly believe that smaller homes can be just as beautiful and functional as larger homes. This was primarily the reason I began the "Cottage Love" series ten years ago. I'm thrilled to add designer, Rosa Beltran's bungalow to the collection. She beautifully mixes warm materials and finishes (like that amazing brick floor) with clean architectural lines and functional storage. See more, "before" photos in Better Homes and Gardens. Photos by: David Tsay. 

Cottage Love #60 - 2018

Eek, I found a goodie to kick off the Cottage Love series for 2018! Well, here we are in the midst of the suckiest coldest time of year in New England. I can either embrace it with a cozy down vibe in my home and for my wardrobe or I could complain. I am guilty of a little bit of bitching, especially when I come out to an ice covered walkway, car and driveway in the early am - (which happened this am). Designer Jennifer Schoenberger's Atlanta home is full of warm moments with an edge. I am drawn to her sultry use of fabrics and the rich, neutral color palette. The cypress clad family room alone was enough to stop me in my tracks! See for yourself: Read more here. Photography by Lauren Rubenstein.

Cottage Love #58

It's not often that I share two home tours in one week but I rarely come cottage style homes on the internet these days. In our world of "super size me", it is a treat to discover a smaller home that packs a beautiful punch. This charming cape fits that bill. The mix of white, lucite and brass create a feminine palette for this mother and her three daughters.(although my kiddos would have this place sticky and messy in a heartbeat) Images via: Elle Decor. Interior Design by Raquel Garcia, Photography: Alyssa Rosenheck 

This stair case and hand rail are fabulous!

Yes, please on this headboard!!

Cottage Love #57

Hola! With summer quickly approaching, I think we're all dreaming of weekend get aways with friends and family. The latest beautiful cottage on my radar is also by one of my favorite designers, Sara Gilbane. Her Long Island weekend retreat is filled with bohemian touches, a fun mix of patterns and a playful color palette. All images from Domino. 

Cottage Love #55

Although, I am pretty sure Minnie Driver's Los Angeles home is far from a cottage, it is however a 1940's ranch style.  The approachable rooms and romantic prints make it feel every bit like one. Minnie Driver brought in fellow Brit, Peter Dunham to help her with the interior design. The results are a carefree, kid friendly home with bohemian touches and an exotic mix of textiles and fabrics. All images via Elle Decor, April 2017. 

Here are some items to bring this look to your own home:

Pendant

Light 

Table 

Pouf

Rug

Pillow