Our Annual Ode to Waterfront Homes

Sunny
Living

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2024 I Display until 08/20/2024

VOLUME 18, NO. 04 I $11.99 US
09

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74820 02373

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EG MEDIA INVESTMENTS LLC

August | September 2024 • Vol. 18, Issue 4

EG MEDIA INVESTMENTS LLC

ILLUSTRATION BY ADOBESTOCK; AELINA

Rima Dorsey: Managing Director/Publisher

EDITORIAL

Content Director: Jickie Torres
Brand Leader: Kelly McMaster
Managing Editor: Meryl Schoenbaum

DESIGN

Design Director: Gabby Oh

CONTRIBUTORS

Angelina Kaul, Autumn Krause, Bryan Cosham,
Dana Mauer, Laura Shimko, Lauren Darcangelo,
Maggie Grivwn, Morgan Anderson,
Tess Newman-Morris, Victoria Van Vlear

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

-ŏ
Summer
Living
OH, THE JOY OF WARM BREEZES ushering in summer! Is it your
favorite season too? Open windows, sheets on the laundry line,
strawberry shortcake and long days at the shore followed by
s’mores by the firepit at night. It’s a season worth celebrating!
In that spirit, we are delighted to bring you our annual waterfront
issue, where we dive deep into the essence of living near the lake,
ocean or river. Explore five cottages that embody a laid-back lifestyle with color palettes that exude a warm welcome.
Take a peek into Project House Utah as it enters its final phase
before the big reveal. We also welcome you to visit Project House
Austin, our new, family friendly home you won’t want to miss on
page 102.
Check in on our 2024 Brand Ambassador, Bryan Cosham, on page
10; shop for fresh outdoor finds on page 16; explore a bit of vintage
Maine on page 106 and see how one designer transforms her balcony in five ways to create a unique oasis on page 114.
We’re so glad you’ve joined us here and we wish you many sunny
days of stylish summer living—no matter where you’ll be enjoying
this light, bright season.
All my best,

Kelly McMaster, Editor

Bret Gum, Elena Molinos, Grace Brackman,
Greg Premru, Lisa Cohen,
Ryan Liu, Sarah Szwajkos

ADVERTISING

Suzy Bailey: Account Representative
Theresa McGrew: Account Representative
Christina Walker: Account Representative
Karen White: Account Representative
Sebastian Tirkey: Advertising Travwc Coordinator
Vipin Marwaha: Advertising Travwc Manager
For advertising inquiries: rdorsey@egmediamags.com

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CONTENTS

august | september 2024

OUR ANNUAL ODE TO
WATERFRONT HOMES
Sunny Summer Living: Celebrate the Season’s
Warmth with Color-Splashed Cottages……….8, 10, 14, 20,
24, 38, 50, 64, 76
1 Balcony Styled 5 Ways……….114
Set Up a Seaside Picnic Site……….88
Shop the Latest Outdoor Finds……….16
Peek Into Our Project House
Progress……….98, 102
Cover design: Gabby Oh
Cover photo: Sarah Szwajkos
Inside front cover: Sarah Szwajkos
Inside back cover: Bret Gum
Back cover: Ryan Liu

38

76

88

RENOVATE & DECORATE
24 HISTORICAL WHIMSY
A historic fishing cottage is updated into an
Adirondack-meets-Hugh-Comstock cottage
full of nostalgic beauty.
BY AUTUMN KRAUSE

64 MAKING LAKESIDE
MEMORIES

92 TRANSFORMED NEW ENGLAND
TREASURE

Porthole views add cozy charm
to this New Hampshire vacation
home.
BY DANA MAUER

A designer breathes new life into her family’s
1970s seaside condo with thoughtful updates and
beautiful furniture from local artisan Thos. Moser.
BY LAURA SHIMKO

76

98

38 LAKEHOUSE COTTAGE MAKEOVER
While this 1922 Craftsman embodies the
character and charm of a bygone era, its
owner has found creative ways to bring it into
the present while honoring its past.
BY ANGELINA KAUL

50 CREATING WITH COLOR
A furniture DIY maven turns her Texas home
into a sunny, whimsical place to live.
BY VICTORIA VAN VLEAR

4 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

LAKESIDE LOVE

PROJECT HOUSE UTAH

A rundown camp is creatively transformed into a family vacation home.
BY LAUREN DARCANGELO

The laundry room’s design has fun punches of
color, touches of charm and nods to nature.
BY LAURA SHIMKO

88

102 PROJECT HOUSE AUSTIN

A DAY AT THE SEASIDE

A coastal campsite comes to life
with a bit of extra planning and
thoughtful touches.
BY KELLY M C MASTER

As our 2024-25 Project House gets underway, the
team at Cottage & Key shares their story as well
as their vision for this exciting new build in Texas.
BY LAURA SHIMKO

50

24

64
SHOPPING

IN EVERY ISSUE

BY KELLY McMASTER

3

EDITOR’S LETTER

14 IN SEASON

6

ON THE WEB

Discover breezy American style
with European accents.

9

CURB APPEAL

10

BRAND AMBASSADOR

20

COTTAGE KITCHENS

16 THE GOODS
Splash into the season with fresh
finds for outdoor fun.

108

106 READ A ROOM
113

SOURCES, ADVERTISERS

114

ROOM RECIPE

COTTAGES & BUNGALOWS (ISSN 1941-4056) is published 6 times per year—Feb/Mar, Apr/May, Jun/Jul, Aug/
Sep, Oct/Nov, Dec/Jan—by EG Media Investments LLC, 3622 Lyckan Parkway, Suite 3003, Durham, NC 27707.
Periodical postage paid at Durham, NC, and additional mailing ofwces. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to
Cottages & Bungalows c/o EG Media Investments LLC, ColorArt, 101 Workman Ct., Eureka, MO 63025. Canadian
Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES,
INC., P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2, Canada. GST #855050365RT001. © 2024 by EG Media Investments
LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

august | september 2024 5

extra On The Web

Tour More Homes With 1ōŚ Views
Check out this month’s online exclusives.

cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

Saddles and Surfboards

Jubilee on the Lake

This California beach cottage, tucked away on a quiet lane and
close enough to the ocean to hear the sounds of the sea, has the
surprising designs of a classic European farmhouse.

A lakeside property featuring docks and outdoor entertaining
spaces becomes a haven for the homeowners after a major
upgrade to the property. See how they did it.

Vintage Décor in a Historic
Lake Cottage
Though it was built nearly a century ago,
this cottage’s story continues to unfold.
Take a look inside this beautiful lakehouse cottage filled with a treasure trove
of vintage décor.

Living the Lake Life

Lake Michigan Cottage Comforts

It’s common to see if the grass is greener
somewhere else when house hunting, but
this couple realized the best place to be
is where you came from. Learn how they
came back home to live the lake life.

There’s nothing like a summer away from
the busy pace of 21st-century life—and
there’s no place to experience it quite like
Menonaqua, a historical association along
Lake Michigan. Take a tour of a New York
couple’s retreat.

Follow us online on Facebook, Pinterest
and Instagram for inspiration daily!

2036 NW 55th Ave. Margate, FL 33063

(866) 297-0380
www.decorativeceilingtiles.net

DESTINATIONS

I T’S T I M E
Time to connect to something other than wi-fi
Time to make a cottage your escape
Time to turn the landscape into your canvas
Time to cozy up with a loved one
Time to break free with Cottages & Bungalows Destinations

Curated Cottage Holidays. For you.
cottagesandbungalowsmag.com/cottage-destinations

Cottages & Bungalows Destinations
Connecting cottage enthusiasts with cottage hosts
who can't wait to have you over.
If you are a cottage host wanting to share your lovely property with our discerning
audience, reach out to Rima at rdorsey@egmediamags.com

extra Curb Appeal

A Cozy Cottage Stay
W RIT TE N BY KE LLY M C MAS TE R

As part of our curated collection of cottage-style destinations, the sun shines brightly on these charming getaways.
THE CAROLINA COTTAGE
PHOTOGR APHY COURTESY OF BRIT TANY SMITH OF
THE C AROLINA COT TAGE

Relax in this nostalgic 1940s cottage in laidback Chesnee, South Carolina, just four blocks
from Historic Downtown. It has been newly renovated by Brittany Smith, whom you may already
follow on Instagram at @thorn_cove_abode,
where she shares her love of home décor. This
cozy cottage was respectfully renovated and every detail enhanced for comfort. Brittany wanted
her rental cottage to be a home-away-fromhome for her guests, so luxury mattresses and
high-quality linens will add to your comfort. A full
kitchen, on-site laundry and game closet make
it easy to enjoy a hassle-free and fun stay. Enjoy
sunshine and meals on the patio by day and
gather round the firepit by night. Visit the nearby
National Historic Battlefield, get your exercise on
the beautiful hiking trails and wander through
the great thrifting and antiques shops nearby.

SUGARTOAD COTTAGE
PH OTO G R APH Y BY RE E S E MO O RE

Sugartoad Cottage is the perfect couples
retreat nestled in the heart of Main Street
in Mathews, Virginia. This cozy cottage is a
peaceful getaway, with balanced warmth and
luxury providing a comfortable escape for a
relaxing stay. The location is key, with easy
access to a variety of restaurants, shops, events
and activities. It also boasts a serene backyard
to retreat to after exploring town. Plant lovers
will enjoy being surrounded by plants in every
room, from window boxes peeking through
the 100-year-old windows to ferns and palms
on the porches and decks as well as sweet
little flowerpots in every nook and cranny. Stay
in this lovingly renovated home by Will and
Emily and make memories to last a lifetime.

TO LEARN M O RE, VIS I T COT TAGESANDBUNGALOWSMAG.COM/COT TAGEDESTINATIONS O R S C A N TH E Q R CO DE:

extra Brand Ambassador

Perfection
Our Brand Ambassador creates a sweet alfresco scene using peach poppies and tulips.
WRIT TEN, PHOTOGR APH E D AND S T YLE D BY B RYAN CO S H AM

We are huge “Bridgerton” fans in my household. The Netflix series features
gorgeous architecture, beautiful home design, outstanding fashion—and, oh, the drama. My favorite feature
of the show, however, are the flowers. I have been drawn to styling floral arrangements in our home recently:
faux or real flowers, I love them equally. Most of my favorite scenes in “Bridgerton” are those that are outdoors,
in gardens or picnic settings. Who doesn’t love a picnic or dining alfresco during the warm summer months?
This romantic picnic is giving me all the “Bridgerton” vibes!

10 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

The fresh air and sunsets of summer are two of the many
reasons to love an outdoor dining experience. And you
don’t even need to go to a fancy restaurant; you can have it
in the comfort of your own backyard!
Let’s walk through creating a cozy, romantic outdoor setting for you and a loved one or as a summer dinner party
for friends:
• Table linens: The beautiful table linens from India &
Purry (indiaandpurry.com) make it easy to create that cozy,
romantic atmosphere. I chose the Peach Poppies on gray
for a table runner and dinner napkins. The huge poppies
are certainly a statement and so beautifully created. Under
the table runner, I put a simple white tablecloth and
layered it with a gingham-check gray tablecloth before
placing the table runner on top to create a layered look.
I love to allow tablecloths to drape to the floor, adding a
more romantic touch.
• Florals: I wanted to complement the beautiful
peach-colored poppies on India & Purry’s table linens on
this table, so when I saw the beautiful apricot-colored
tulips, I knew those were going to be the statement color of
my arrangement. I used white hydrangeas as a filler to add
balance. As an additional filler I used bupleurum flowering
greenery, which added to the cascading look of the arrangement. And finally, I used blossoming branches to add
height to the arrangement as well as the table overall.

Things to Love
About India & Purry’s
Collections
• Curated collections: I love curated collections—onestop shopping where all the elements match or complement each other. On the company’s website, you will
find everything to be very easily accessible. You can
choose your color palette (I wish you luck finding one
that you don’t love!) and the rest falls into place with the
various pieces offered in that color palette: table linens,
bedding, stationery, coffee mugs, bags, etc.
• The artwork: Jessica’s artwork is simply beautiful. The
pops of color that she includes in her pieces are breathtaking. The softness of the flowers that Jessica chooses
to work with are also so calming: poppies, Queen Anne’s
Lace and hibiscus, just to name a few. The intricate detail
in these flowers is what makes these pieces so captivating to the eye.
• Product quality: The materials used to produce the linens in India & Purry’s collections are of high quality. The
table runners are made using a Luxe Cotton Sateen fabric
that is wrinkle resistant. The napkins are heavyweight
linen cotton and depending on how you choose to fold
the napkins on your table, the artwork can change, given
the beauty of each individual napkin.

august | september 2024 11

• Food: There is nothing like a good summer salad,
whether it be with protein or without. The fresh
summer vegetables make it easy to create salads to
satisfy any palette. This apricot salad is refreshing
and light!
Over the remaining summer months, I hope that
you create a beautiful outdoor table setting to enjoy
the company of that special someone in your life or
a gathering of friends or family.

India
& Purry
India & Purry is a collection of home décor,
stationery and accessories by New York City
artist Jessica Hollander. Jessica’s collection stems
from her beautiful watercolor and oil paintings
of gorgeous representations of florals and trees.
These wonderful paintings allow you to bring
the beauty of nature inside of your home with
textiles such as table runners, napkins,
bedding and even art prints. Visit them at
indiaandpurry.com or @indiaandpurry
on Instagram.

Apricot
Salad
This simple summer salad is a tasty picnic
treat for a cozy meal for two or as an
appetizer at a larger dinner party.
Ingredients:
Arugula
Dried apricots
Pecans
Goat cheese
Balsamic glaze
Simply combine desired quantities of
each ingredient into a large bowl and
toss. You can add any protein to this salad
to make it a main dish: I love using chicken, shrimp or salmon.

TO SEE MORE OF BRYA N’S HOME, VISIT HIM
O N INS TAG R AM @ O UR.CO Z Y.L I T TL E.HO M E.

12 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

extra In Season

Inspiration From
Coast to Coast

PRO D U C E D BY KE LLY McMAS TE R I IMAG E S CO U RTE S Y O F COAS TAL B L EU

Discover breezy American style
with European accents.

NEUTRALS COMBINED WITH seagrass, rattan and shades of blue create a look that is casual and coastal. Add antiques
and market finds and you have a home that exemplifies the Coastal Bleu style.
A woman-owned and -operated online business based in Naples, Florida, Coastal Bleu, has perfected the art of chic
yet relaxed living that includes décor, furniture, kitchen and tabletop, bed and bath, lighting and outdoor selections.
“We are here to help you create a welcoming oasis to live inspired every day and to spread that joy to others—a
homey charm that will be remembered by the generations,” says owner Tina Angelova.
FI N D COA STA L BLE U ON LI N E AT COAS TA LBLE U.COM A N D O N IN S TAGR AM @COA S TA L_ BLE U.

Dewey Beach Kitchen Redo
This renovated gem on the bay now feels fresh while still capturing the
nostalgia and charm of the classic American summer.

Signature Style. Coastal Bleu used a
combination of natural tones with various
blues as the base for the cottage upgrade.
Brick tile with colorful tile accents and
maritime-style lighting complete the
polished yet cozy look.

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the picturesque Rehoboth Bay,
Dewey Beach is a popular seaside resort. It is only two blocks wide and
surrounded by water. The Coastal Bleu team renovated this cottage and
the family now enjoys spectacular sunsets, its own private beach cove and
the best spot in town for the 4th of July fireworks.
Built in the 1980s, it survived the devastation of Hurricane Sandy in 2012
and still had great bones and plenty of character, but it needed a new spin
on its historical features. Coastal Bleu helped create an inviting kitchen
and living and dining spaces for family and friends to gather for crab boils,
board games and laughter.
S EE S O U R C ES, PAGE 113

Opened Up. The homeowners topped their wish list for the
kitchen with a desire for extra storage without the congestion
of upper cabinets. This was achieved with open shelving and
this gorgeous glass enclosed hutch.

Gather ’Round. A large island serves as a focal space that can
accommodate a large crowd of family and friends around it. The
kitchen extends to the dining and living areas and allows for views of
the sparkling bay.

MysticKnotwork.com
A New England Tradition Since 1957

Handmade Nautical Home Decor
25 Cottrell Street Mystic CT 860.889.3793 info@MysticKnotwork.com Open 7 Days

Dutch Tile Inc.
Authentic delft tile hand formed and hand
painted in Holland using traditional methods. Select from
our timeless designs, mix and match your favorites and
customize your colors. All tiles are painted to order.

(201) 290-9347
info@dutchtile.com | www.dutchtile.com
@dutchtileinc on Instagram

the goods

Splash into the season with
fresh finds for outdoor fun.

Summer

1

COMPILED BY KELLY M C MAS TE R

1 Die-Cut Beach House Placemats. Add a splash of fun to your
table with this placemat designed in collaboration with artist Janet
Hill. Her whimsical beach scene will transport you to a relaxing
getaway. Twelve mats per pack, $24.95. Visit cottonandcrete.com.
2 Picnic Basket with Side Pocket. This charming basket is perfect
for picnics, beach outings or even indoors in a lovely summertime
vignette, $86. Visit cottonandcrete.com.
3 Capella 3-Piece Outdoor Wicker Chair Set in Creme/Brown.
Lounge and chat away in style with this stunning patio furniture
set that combines cool neutral tones with natural finishes to create
a modern coastal vibe on your porch or patio, $830.99. Visit
1stopoutdoors.com.
4 Navy Lake Time Sign. A truly unique addition to your décor with
distressed lettering and antique texture. It can be personalized
with any lake in the world, and your choice of text above or below
it. Available printed on canvas, paper, or aluminum, framed or
unframed, from $107. Visit jadeforestdecor.com.

3

16 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

2

5 Pool Candy Floaties. Bring the fun to the next pool
party with a floating table tennis set and an illuminated cooler. PoolCandy has a vast variety of floaties
to choose from and can also be found on Amazon,
Target and Home Depot. Visit poolcandy.net.
6 Alfresco Bar and Counter Tables. Created with
versatility in mind, choose from square or rectangle
sizes that will perfectly fit your patio. Allow guests
to easily mingle, whether sitting or standing, as
they enjoy a cold one at the counter or snack on
hors d’oeuvres at the taller bar-height option. Visit
urbannatural.com for sizes and pricing.
7 Kennedy Canvas Tote. This chic canvas tote is designed with a thick antimicrobial and stain-resistant
coating that is sure to last through any adventure.
Available in three colorways, it has an interior zip
and wall pockets, top zip closure for security and
leather accents. Monogramming available, $115.
Visit southernhomesteadmercantile.com.

4

5

6

7
august | september 2024 17

the goods

9
8

8 Lidia’s Kitchen 4-Piece Set. Leave it to Lidia Bastianich
to create a tool set that is both functional and beautiful.
Each piece features one of Lidia’s designs, each with its own
personal story. This set includes her personal favorites: a
“spider” skimmer, a slotted turner, ladle and a pair of tongs,
$24.95. Visit hsn.com.
9 Half Dozen Oyster Platter. Bring the beauty of the ocean
to your summer tablescape with this stunning platter that
can also be used as home décor, $40. Visit coastalbleu.com.

11

10
18 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

12

10 BBQ Deck: 30 Recipes to Spice Up Your BBQ
Game. Ray “Dr. BBQ” Lampe, a certified BBQ Hall
of Famer, pitmaster and personality, has poured
his years of award-winning barbeque IQ into this
handy deck. packing it with invaluable insights
and tips, $19.95. Visit chroniclebooks.com.
11 Masterbuilt Grill. Experience the flavor of charcoal with the convenience of gas at the push of
a button with the Masterbuilt AutoIgnite™ Series
545 Digital Charcoal Grill and Smoker. Remove
the hassle of manually igniting charcoal and light
your firestarter with the push of a button using
the QuickStart Auto-Ignition. Get the convenience
of gas grilling with the flavor of charcoal! Visit
masterbuilt.com.
12 Glass Panel Patio Lantern. Suitable for indoor or
outdoor use, this lantern will dress up your space
with a simple style. Constructed from iron and
glass it stands 16 inches high. Add an LED candle
to this lantern to light up your space or add
seasonal accent pieces for a fresh look, $96. Visit
antiquefarmhouse.com.
13 Fresh Air 62” Dining Set. Loll crafts fun and
contemporary all-weather furniture designed to
inspire joy and appreciation for being outside.
Manufactured in Duluth, Minnesota, from materials sourced in the US, they’re dedicated to helping
local American communities and economies
thrive. Available in nine colors. Visit
urbannatural.com.
14 The Megan Rattan Armchair. Elevate your
space with this luxurious lattice-style rattan armchair that adds a touch of sophistication to any
room, whether indoors or in a covered outdoor
area. Its neutral colors and timeless design make it
the perfect addition to a classic or contemporary
setting, $572. Visit cottonandcrete.com.

13

14

august | september 2024 19

cottage kitchens

The handle on the left is the Sub-Zero refrigerator, concealed by custom door paneling.
This is to keep the antique look of the space from being broken up visually by appliances.

W RIT TE N BY LAU R A S H IMKO I D E S IG N BY ATE LIE R D RO ME
PH OTO G R APH Y BY S AR AH S Z WAJ KO S

Coastal Cottage

Reimagined

Custom touches give this
space a personalized feel.
Even the flooring’s finish
is customized: the floors
are sealed with one coat
of ambering sealer and
three coats of oil-modified
polyurethane.

This vacation-home kitchen received a complete
renovation to transform it into a cozy yet elegant
space while keeping to its New England roots.

Nestled in the resort town of Camden, Maine, the homeowners
of this three-season oceanfront cottage wanted to upgrade the home
aesthetically, functionally and structurally to serve as the perfect retreat
for their family. They reached out to Rockport Building Partners to bring
their vision to life. Due to the state of the cottage and the goals of the
homeowners, the original kitchen was gutted, allowing for a total reimagining of the layout and design.

A simple elegance exudes from the
details of the kitchen design, which
were implemented to yacht-quality
standards. The homeowner custom-designed and built the cabinetry
in their Pennsylvania workshop and
the wood floors are reclaimed rustic
white oak, also from Pennsylvania.
august | september 2024 21

The project began with securing the foundation of the home. The team at Rockport Building Partners shored the house, which
originally rested on wooden piers, in place and excavated underneath to ensure a fully insulated and weatherproof foundation.
The frame of the house also suffered rot in several places, which the team repaired, and the roof needed additional reinforcement. This last feature allowed for the installation of custom trusses made of Douglas fir and finished in white paint.

IFAR LEFTI Antique rolled glass
gives an Old World look to these
plate-glass cabinet windows,
allowing a peek at the homeowners’ collectibles and an opportunity for them to display their
unique style. The old-fashioned
method of glassmaking is meant
to evoke a stained glass look and
feel, keeping to the cottage’s historic nature. A soldered tin frame
holds the glass plates in place.
INEAR LEFTI Appliance “caddies” on the left and right of the
sink house the coffee maker and
the toaster oven. These custom
built-in hideaways visually unify
the area and prevent a messy or
cluttered look on the countertops
while also preserving the historic
look of the space.

TO L E A R N M O R E A B O U T R O C K P O RT B U I L D I N G PA RT N E R S, V I S I T ROCKPORTBUILDINGPARTNERS.COM.

22 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

Alfresco with Vietri
20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING
WITH CODE: COTTAGE20

THE ART OF LIVING BEAUTIFULLY.

COTTAGES
& BUNGALOWS

Favorite

Home Tours

With notes on why we love them!

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downloadable eBooks full of
cottage goodness?
• Easy to access
• Put it in your pocket
• Enjoy exclusive content

Tour four of the most
charming & inspiring homes
of the past year

Visit cottagesandbungalowsmag.com/ebook/
or scan the QR code

24 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

Historical
A historic fishing cottage is updated into an
Adirondack-meets-Hugh-Comstock cottage full
of nostalgic beauty.
W RIT TE N BY AU TUMN KR AU S E I PH OTO G R APH Y BY RYAN LIU

A 1939 fishing cottage located
on Candlewood Lake in New Milford, Connecticut, is a
charming time capsule that tugs on the heartstrings with
its nostalgic beauty. With a robust following on Instagram,
the home and its owner show that while trends come and
go, some things are tried-and-true.
DOUBLE HEARTS. The double-heart pickets were inspired
by the architectural details often seen on Adirondack homes.
More specifically, all of Hugh Comstock’s Carmel by the Sea
cottages used this fairytale-like touch to capture the hearts
of homeowners for over 100 years. “We knew it was a special
touch that would kindle a feeling of unexpected joy, welcoming each guest as they entered the property—and perhaps
create a feeling of anticipation about what might be waiting
for them inside,” Cindy says.

IABOVE, LEFTI SOFA STYLE. The sofas in the living room
have deep seating and are very comfy. “Naps are big here
at the lake and a great couch was a necessity,” Cindy says.
“Rather than going with a solid, I went with a blue-andcream ticking stripe.” It acts as a neutral—but with vavoom.
It has the English cottage feeling that she was after and goes
with just about any pillow or throw that she tosses onto it.
ILEFTI EXTERIOR EXCELLENCE. The siding, windows, a new
roof, stonework and extended decking were all updated and
changed during the renovation. It took about a year to complete the renovation and addition. The architectural details
in the windows were inspired by the cottages of Carmel,
California, as is the scalloped trim on the eaves of the home
and shed. They add charm and whimsy.

The cottage belongs to Cindy Magoon and her husband, Jack, and is inspired by traditional Adirondack
homes along with a touch of whimsy from the beloved
Carmel by the Sea Hugh Comstock cottages.
“Not an unexpected challenge—but a challenge, nonetheless—was turning this 800-square-foot fishing abode
into a full-time retirement cottage without compromising our vision for keeping true to the original style of
the home while adding an additional 1,800 square feet,”
Cindy says. “But we were up to the task.”
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FIX IT
When the couple purchased the home, their fix-it list
was long. It required refurbishing everything from the
foundation to the roof, adding insulation (many lake
homes were just summer places in their formative years),
repairing the disintegrating stone fireplace, updating
electrical and plumbing, replacing rotting windows,
attending the original masonry and remedying the
infested pine siding. “Still, amidst those gigantic issues,
we saw what it could be,” Cindy says. “The lines and basic

LIGHT A FIRE. Since the original fireplace was beginning
to crumble from the inside out and no longer safe, it had
to be replaced, which gave the couple the opportunity
to start from scratch. “We opted to use granite stone
in a traditional mortar setting,” Cindy says. “It looks as
though it’s been here since 1930.” They asked the mason
to make it two-sided and add large, raised hearths so
they can enjoy the ambience from the kitchen as well.
“Best decision we made!” Cindy says.

layout were salvageable and could
be improved and turned into the
lake cottage of our dreams.”
To keep continuity, the couple
completely re-sided the home in
cedar rough-cut slab siding. The
roughcut sawn siding stayed true to
the old lake style of the 1930s and
’40s, and the cedar is insect- and
rot-resistant. The addition of stone
pillars and stone siding helped connect the old with the new and roof
angles were pitched to match. All
new Marvin windows and skylights
were installed, which helped unite
the home. Dormers were installed
on both the original and new construction and married each section
to the other. “Now it’s difficult to be
certain where the original cottage
ends and the addition begins—just
as we’d hoped for!” Cindy says.
STYLED TO PERFECTION
The interiors are just as charming
as the exterior. Cindy has always
loved pattern and color and has
a deep appreciation for antiques,
which she inherited from her
grandmother who spent a lifetime
collecting beautiful old pieces.
“It makes me happy, and I think
those who visit feel the comfort
and ease that colors, patterns and
antiques create,” she says. “Since
the original main-floor footprint is a
completely open floor plan, I stuck
with a creamy neutral on the walls
and kept the pine shiplap ceilings
natural (as can be found in many old
lake homes), which will patina over
time.” Furnishings are plop-down
comfortable and well-made. Cindy
had antique wing chairs recovered
in a ditsy-floral oatmeal fabric and a
gloriously nap-worthy swivel rocker
reupholstered in a vintage floral.

RAMBLE ON. As the cottage itself isn’t particularly large, Cindy knew she
wanted a rambling kitchen. The original footprint had this room as a bedroom, but during the planning stages of renovation, Cindy and Jack realized
this space would make a generously sized kitchen, especially once they
created a wall of windows to the lake, allowing for tons of natural light.

august | september 2024 29

SOFT SAGE. The green cabinet paint color is called Tiffany Heirloom Sage and it’s a custom color that the couple selected when they chose their cabinets from Schuler Cabinetry (available through Lowe’s). The cabinets are distressed
and glazed to give them a feeling of being here for many decades. “We chose mismatched cabinet colors in different
areas of the kitchen to avoid a solid matchy-matchy look and to give the feeling of pieces being added at different
times,” Cindy says. “We wanted it to feel like the kitchen was here for a long time, perhaps even from the 1930s.”
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REST AND RELAXATION. Originally, this area was a tiny galley kitchen! Cindy and Jack added five new large windows
to take advantage of the Southwestern exposure and the garden, patio and lake views. They created a wall of bookcases and, tucked in as unobtrusively as possible, a frame TV. Two reclaimed stuffed armchairs were rescued from the
landfill and recovered in vintage-inspired fabrics, his and hers, each with matching footstools. It’s a quiet and bright
little nook for reading, catching up on your favorite show or sneaking a nap.

QUAINT KITCHEN. The kitchen table is
in the center of the kitchen. “We always
dreamed of having a fireplace in the kitchen
that you could enjoy while eating meal or
just puttering around,” Cindy says. The
table itself is the star of the space. It’s more
than 100 years old, made of tiger oak and
belonged to Cindy’s great-grandma. The
thousands of meals that have been enjoyed
on it touch her heart and she is honored to
continue the tradition. “I love the chunkiness of the legs and the hand-carving,” she
says. “They just don’t make them like this
anymore and there are six leaves that can
extend the table to 12 feet!”

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Two Birch Lane sofas in a blue-andcream ticking stripe pattern set the
foundation. From there, patterned
floral pillows in a variety of shapes
and sizes (and always with a ruffle)
are tossed on each piece of furniture. “Family antiques, including a
vitrine and breakfront that’s more
than 100 years old add to the timeless feel of the space. I was delighted to repurpose a hand-painted
kitchen table converted into a coffee
table that belonged to my mother
for the living room,” Cindy says. “It’s
large enough to display many collected treasures that get swapped as
my mood changes.” Thrifted pieces,
such as a drop-leaf walnut table and
chest of drawers, create an eclectic
mix of time-worn comfort.
STAYING SOCIAL
Cindy’s Instagram account,
@windowboxcottage, is tremendously popular. “After being a lurker
for quite a few months and admiring
so many accounts that spoke to my
heart, I thought I would dip my toe
in the water and post a few pics,
not necessarily thinking anyone
would be all that interested,” Cindy
says. “I thought of it as a daily diary
of musings about lake life, cottage
décor and gardening. Well, one and
one equals two, and before I knew
what happened I had 20,000 followers, and so on and so on.” She was
surprised at the success and calls
it serendipitous, though adding, “I
would say to any interiors instagrammer wanting to achieve success,
be true to yourself, treat people like
the friends you want to have and
practice taking fabulous pictures.

august | september 2024 33

SLEEPING ON THE LAKE. This bedroom is
part of the addition and sits on top of the
garage. “Jack and I wanted a room where
we could relax and find quiet space at the
end of the day,” Cindy says. “You might
not be ready to crawl into bed quite yet,
but lounging in pajamas on the couch is
so relaxing.” The shelf atop the bed is one
Cindy has had for many years and it seems
a natural fit to display all her junker finds
and treasures. It changes seasonally.
IBELOWI PRETTY POWDER ROOM. “We
created this bathroom out of thin air,”
Cindy says. “It’s actually part of a small
addition added to the rear of the cottage.
I wanted it to feel like it could have been
here in the 1930s or ’40s.” They chose elements like a pedestal sink from England,
black-and-white hex tile for the flooring,
subway tile for the bathtub enclosure and
beadboard for the lower half of the walls.
“I think it feels timeless,” Cindy says. “The
mirror also belonged to my great-grandma and it used to go atop a bureau, which
is now in one of the bedrooms.”

Oh, and a few light-filtering apps always help when the light isn’t
as good as it should be!” Cindy was even a finalist in the Cottages
& Bungalows Brand Ambassador Search, confirming that she’s
absolutely one to follow.
Now, the cottage is perfectly homey and stylish, brimming with
bright colors, patterns, different wood tones in furniture pieces,
ruffles on salvaged and reupholstered armchairs and displays of
bespoke collections scattered on coffee tables and vitrines. “Everything creates a warm and unpretentious place that invites you to
sit and stay for more than just a while,” Cindy says.
SE E SOUR CE S, PAG E 113

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IABOVE, LEFTI SEATING AREA. “I love having a separate seating area in our bedroom,” Cindy says. The
extra sense of space is appreciated in a small cottage
and she loves the Country French and English feeling
that the bright-colored furniture provides. Pattern
mixing makes it feel collected and the traditional
colors of Provence exude a classic and timeless feel,
definitely not too fussy. “I’ve had this set of furnishings for 20 years and it works as well now as it did in
our former home,” Cindy says.
IRIGHTI BE OUR GUEST. A handpainted armoire is
an antique pine piece from England. It’s a cherished
piece that Cindy has had for more than 25 years, and
it’s a favorite. “Well-worn and efficient, it hides away
everything from TVs to clothing,” Cindy says. It seems
to fit perfectly in this space and is an eclectic complement to the odd angles of the ceiling.

august | september 2024 35

DIVINE DECK. The deck is an extension of
the living room, kitchen and bedroom as
entertaining, eating and napping all take
place out here as soon as the weather permits. “We extended the deck lengthwise by
14 feet to accommodate a large dining table
and umbrella,” Cindy explains. “It’s also a
great transition from the dining area to the
stone patio, where we enjoy the gurgling of
a stone fountain and warmth of an evening
firepit. And don’t forget the s’mores!”

36 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

IBELOW, LEFTI ON DECK. Originally, the porch was uncovered. “Jack always wanted a covered porch so he could sit outside
and watch the rain and stay dry,” Cindy says. “It was a fabulous idea, and the porch is our second living room almost three
seasons of the year.” They extended the length to accommodate a large dining table, which could also help the transition from
deck to stone patio along the south end of the cottage. Additional outdoor living space was added to include decks, porches,
and stone patios, all heavily used during the warmer months. Now, both Jack and Midge Pie, the couple’s Maltipoo, enjoy the
space. IBELOW, RIGHTI SHED LIFE. A shed features scallop details inspired by the storybook Comstock cottages and Adirondack homes of the early 19th century. “Jack made them using a gallon paint can traced on the trim boards,” Cindy says.

Bloom Where

You’re Planted.

There are rhododendrons in front of the porch, which are
popular in the Northeast and especially in lake communities.
A cluster of hot-pink knockout roses adorn the patch beside
the stone entry steps to the porch and the countless window
boxes are filled with multicolored wave petunias, geraniums
and cascading verbena and variegated and green English ivy
for continuous color all summer long. The perennial garden
around the front walkway and shed are planted with cone
flowers, Black Eyed Susans, daisies, cosmos and clematis, to
name a few. “I try to have something blooming all summer for
continuous color and, in the gaps, impatiens and begonias for
guaranteed bloom views,” Cindy says.

TO SEE M O RE O F THE H OME, V I SI T
COT TAG E S A N D B U N G A LOW S MAG.CO M/
T HE- W IND OW BOX - COT TAG E/

august | september 2024 37

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Lakehouse
Cottage
A nature-inspired cottage from the 1950s becomes
the perfect spot for fun and relaxation.
WRIT TE N BY ANG E LINA K AU L I PH OTO G R APH Y BY B RIAN B IE D E R

august | september 2024 39

40 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

|OPPOSITE| OUI OUI. These beautiful
French doors connect the living room
with the deck outside. Hardwood floors
throughout the interior and exterior tie
the entire space together.

“But the great fact in life,

the always possible escape from
dullness, was the lake. The sun rose out of it, the day began there; it was like an
open door that nobody could shut.” —Willa Cather
Built in the 1950s, this fishing cottage rests atop Lake Seed in Lakemont,
Georgia. It is one of the few cottages built on the lake that remain standing.
Once owned by the homeowner’s grandfather and used during the fishing
season, the cottage was abandoned for many years before the remodel.
Time had taken its toll and the building needed serious work. That’s when
interior designer Grace Brackman from Maggie Griffin Design stepped in.
“Everything was worn out and needed to be redone to create enough space
for a family with three teenagers,” Grace says.

august | september 2024 41

LET’S EAT. An eclectic mix of antique furniture like the dining table and contemporary chairs make the space relaxed and
welcoming. Wooden barstools anchor the kitchen island offering more space to eat a meal.
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ÿ)!3 the Outdoors In
To create your own nature-inspired retreat, try the following:
1. Choose warm neutral colors as your canvas to build on.
2. Bring in outdoor elements such as a branch of leaves and place them in
a beautiful glass jar.
3. Decorate with a blend of antique and contemporary pieces made with
wood or other natural substances that complement each other.

august | september 2024 43

CHECKMATE. A round table with
wicker chairs tucked between two
built-in shelving units provides space
for reading in the sunshine or playing
old-fashioned board games.

So, Grace set to work. “The masonry stone fireplace became the focal point
in the living room and provided much of the inspiration for the materials
that were used in creating the space,” she says. She also chose nature as the
basis for the decorative elements used in the cottage. Neutral colors such as
whites, robin’s-egg blue and creams were used on the walls and shelving units.

44 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

|ABOVE|
OH DEER. Two
contemporary
iron beds on the
upper level of the
house offer the
perfect space for
resting. The walls
are paired with
images of fishes
and two antique
deer heads with
long antlers. A
small nook holds
an antique dresser for storage and
is topped with two
handcrafted table
lamps made by a
local artist.

august | september 2024 45

EASY BREEZY. The main bedroom of the house
features an iron bed set on an antique rug. The same
neutral color palette from downstairs follows the
upper level. Overhead a ceiling fan offers fresh breeze
and ventilation for hot summer days and nights.

46 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

TURTLE PACE. The bathroom features a stand-alone tub, great for a relaxing bath. Two turtle shells on the wall
add interesting decorative elements and a double-sink vanity with brass fixtures complete the space.

Hardwood floors throughout most of the space connect the indoors with the outdoors. The cottage also
has hints of rustic elements, such as the wrought-iron
barstool chairs, the beds and the lighting fixture in the
living room. The wonderful eclectic blend of antiques
and contemporary decorative items tie the space together perfectly.
Overall, what makes this cottage so special is that it
provides space for the family to rest and relax without
any distractions. It is like a private haven. “There’s no TV
or Wi-Fi connection,” Grace says. The space is designed
for a family that enjoys being out in nature. True to its
original foundation, it’s a salute to a slow way of living
from a bygone era.
S EE SOURCES, PAGE 113

august | september 2024 47

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SIT A SPELL. The cottage stands
on the lake and offers a great
place to overlook the beautiful
surrounding scenery. The deck
provides ample seating space
to relax and enjoy the day. A
walkable pathway beside the lake
connects the main house to
the cottage.

august | september 2024 49

FIRST IMPRESSIONS. The front door opens into an entryway with
the staircase visible and, of course, some of Wendy’s upholstery
work. “I got that settee from Craigslist back in the day. It came as a
set with chairs too,” Wendy says. “I love the pink and green fabric.
I cleaned it, but I had to replace the seat. I kept the top and back
sides [original fabric].” The wall art up the stairs is a series of Frida
Kahlo paintings her daughter created for her.

A furniture DIY maven turns her Texas home
into a sunny, whimsical place to live.
W RIT TE N BY V IC TO RIA VAN V LE AR
PH OTO G R APH Y BY B RE T G UM

Are you afraid of adding bold color
into your home? Wendy Conklin isn’t, and she’s made it her
business—quite literally—to show other people how to
add color to their homes too. “I’ve always been that way,
wanting something unique,” she says. “I don’t want what
everybody else has.” This passion has led her not only to
decorate her home with fun patterns and bright colors,
but to start her own business, Chair Whimsy, where she
creates custom upholstered furniture and hosts online
classes to teach others how to create their own upholstery
as well.

LOOKS OLD, FEELS NEW
Wendy’s Texas home is the perfect blend of new and old.
It was built in 2003, but with Victorian-style architecture.
“We’re in a historic district,” she says. “All the homes in our
neighborhood are old, so they wanted it to fit in. It has all
these great old features, but I don’t have all the old-house
problems. It’s the charm without the issues.” The home

IABOVEI MODERN VICTORIAN. Wendy’s home was built
in 2003, but is in a historic Victorian neighborhood, so the
builder designed the home with Victorian architecture to
help it blend in. The covered porch and front door with
side lights and clerestory window fit into the landscape.

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IBELOWI PURPLE & BLUE. The living room is a combination of
new and old, custom and thrifted. This includes the coffee table. “That’s a secondhand piece I got at a yard sale, it used to
be brown,” Wendy says. “Someone suggested I paint it blue.
I wasn’t sure about it, but I loved it.” The upholstered chairs
are custom pieces by Wendy, of course. The Frida Kahlo portrait above the mantel is a piece by Wendy’s daughter.

has proven to be the perfect base and Wendy hasn’t had
to make many structural changes. “The kitchen and living
room are very open, which is good for parties,” she says.
“The dining room has a swinging door off the kitchen, so it
has an easy flow.”

OUTDOOR ADDITIONS
The one place Wendy and her husband, Blane, have added square footage is with several outbuildings, including
a workshop for Wendy’s business and a greenhouse. The
couple built the workshop in 2015 with what they thought
was enough square footage for doing upholstery. But as
Wendy’s business has grown, so has her need for workspace. “I had some people who build temporary structures
come out and build it on tinder blocks,” she explains. “Then
we doubled the space a couple of years later.” The workshop is now 320 square feet, which gives Wendy plenty of
space to run her business.
The greenhouse was another addition that Wendy had
always wanted to do. Her neighbor was a handyman and
built it for her by hand, incorporating old materials into the
structure for added charm. “I’d ask him about all these customizations,” Wendy says. “We made it so the old windows
could open and let in a cross breeze. He had a lot of fun
doing it and it’s great for storing all my garden stuff.”

UP THE STAIRS. Wendy isn’t afraid to add color and pattern to every space in her house—including the staircase risers. “I
wanted to add pizzazz to my stairwell, but it would be hard to wallpaper the whole stairwell,” she said. “It was pre-pasted, so
it only took me two and a half hours to do it. You just have to make sure you get a wallpaper you can turn in any direction.”
august | september 2024 53

IRIGHTI STRIPED WHIMSY. In the corner of the dining room is a dresser
Wendy painted herself. “I got it on Craigslist a long time ago,” she says. “It
was originally white. It keeps all my linens and placemats, and I decided to
stripe it. I did it with painters’ tape and now it’s a personality piece.” Above
the dresser is an abstract still-life painting by artist Carrie Schmitt.

IABOVE, LEFTI PLATES AND MORE PLATES. In the dining room, Wendy added a wallpaper wainscoting, a
unique twist on the more typical wall-paneling wainscoting with wallpaper above. Instead, Wendy left the
upper wall blank so she could add more decoration through a plate gallery. “I have too many dishes; I can’t
resist them,” she says. “Every time I see cute dishes, I must have them. I don’t have any more room for them,
so I put them on the wall.” Wendy designed her plate wall around a vintage painting she found at an antiques
shop. “I switched the portrait [to the middle] and designed the plate wall around it,” she says.
54 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

WHIMSICAL WENDY
In all her spaces, Wendy’s aesthetic is a mix of
bright colors, bold patterns and personalized art.
“It’s whimsical, which involves color,” she says. “I
push the boundaries of what most people would
do. I’m always searching for a way to be different,
do something that’s not going to fit the norm.”
From the colorful wallpaper and bright paintings
to the custom upholstered furniture, every room
has focal points to draw your eye and make you
smile. “My house is the palette for my system
of playing,” Wendy says. “It’s the place where I
reinvent my dreams.”
UPCYCLED FINDS
One of the themes throughout Wendy’s home
are pieces she’s found and upcycled. These include many of her upholstered furniture pieces,
some lighting, painted furniture and even art
and frames. “I’m constantly changing my
chairs to be something different,” she says.

Shopping
in Color

Wendy loves décor with
whimsical style and bright
colors. Here are some of her
favorite online sources, which
she uses for both her home
and business.

FABRIC:
• Spoonflower: Tiffani Evans
• eBay: AntiquesSuperStore
• Arte De Mi Tierra
ART:
• Carrie Schmitt
• Brittany Atkinson
• LX Artworks
• Etsy: Femme Hesse
• Etsy: Devine Paintings
WALLPAPER:
• Annie Selke
• Katie Kime
• Jaima Brown Designs

HALLWAY BUTTERFLIES. In the upstairs hallway, Wendy chose a
bold butterfly wallpaper with a bright pink side table and custom
upholstered chair. Wendy decided not to upholster the huge stairwell, but the upstairs hallway was more attainable.

august | september 2024 55

IABOVEI BLACK & WHITE. When Wendy and Blane bought the house, the kitchen was already painted black. Wendy decided to leave it
that way. “What I love about it is that I can layer any color with it,” she says. “I was really glad [the previous owners] went with a black
kitchen.” The bright-purple chandelier is a relatively new piece Wendy installed to replace an older chandelier that used to hang here.
IOPPOSITEI CUSTOM KITCHEN. In the kitchen eating nook, Wendy has several custom-upholstered pieces. That settee was my very first
big piece to reupholster,” she says. “I found it for $100 on Craigslist and it took me four months. I had so much fun.” There was originally
gold leaf on the frame, which Wendy stripped down and intended to repaint. But when she went to make sure the piece fit into the kitchen
nook, she liked it so much with the raw wood that she left it that way.

Pleasure to Business

Take tips from business owner Wendy Conklin, who grew Chair Whimsy from her hobby
into her full-time business doing what she loves.
TIP 1: LEARN YOUR CRAFT
Wendy’s business journey
started when she took an
upholstery course in 2012.
“I wanted to learn,” she says.
She was having fun doing
her own furniture and started posting about her projects
online. “Within two weeks,
I had an order and I had
more people wanting custom
orders,” she says.

TIP 2: EXPAND YOUR CUSTOMER BASE
Wendy’s business now has two branches: custom
upholstery orders and teaching people how to do
it themselves. “The money is in custom orders,”
she says. “People like something made for them.
They want to have a feeling of, ‘This is mine.’” But
then someone suggested that she teach others
how to do it too. “I was a teacher, so I feel strongly
that people need to learn the basics,” she says. “But
I didn’t think anyone would want to learn how
to do it. So, I put out a poll and people wanted it.”
Adding online courses opened up a new avenue
of customers—those who didn’t want to spend the
money on custom upholstery but would put in
the time to learn it themselves.

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TIP 3: BE CONSISTENT
Whether that means posting online,
practicing your craft or doing marketing, consistency is key. “In 2013, I
opened a Facebook business page and
then an Instagram page,” Wendy says.
“My audience grew over time and I
attribute that to being consistent and
having something pretty to post.”
Wendy’s focus has paid off. “It was a
long 6.5 years to be able to quit my
day job,” she says. She now gets to do
what she loves for a living.

58 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

That makes it fun; it’s like playing for me. I just have to fit
in the time for it.” Wendy also installs her own wallpaper,
a recurring element she likes to use. It works with the
architecture too—with high ceilings, bright wallpaper
doesn’t make the spaces feel cramped. “The ceilings are
10 feet on the main level and 9 feet on the second floor,”
she says. “That makes it feel even bigger than it is.”
Between running her business and decorating her
home, Wendy has a full plate. But she’s able to take the
time to make her home a place that reflects her style
and feeds into her business goals. “It’s a good place to
take pretty pictures,” she says with a smile.
SEE SOUR CE S, PAG E 113.

IBELOW, FAR RIGHTI CHANDELIER WHIMSY. The home’s back
porch has a covered area where Wendy set up a spot to relax.
The chandelier is a fun focal point that Wendy painted herself.
“I found it on Facebook Marketplace, back when we first
moved into the house,” she says. “It used to be in the kitchen
until last year, and then I decided to move it. I painted it to
match the rug and make it whimsical and fun and unexpected. Most people would have a fan out there.”
IBOTTOM, MIDDLEI COVERED PORCH. On the covered front
porch is a seating area to which Wendy added a colorful rug
and thrifted coffee table. “This kind of front porch calls for
rocking chairs,” she says. “I put a little coffee table out there
I had gotten for $10 at a garage sale. I didn’t even have to
repaint it.” She also added hanging ferns from the covered
area. “That’s classic for porches,” she says.

august | september 2024 59

IBELOWI BLUE & GREEN. Wendy
transformed her daughter’s old
bedroom into a guestroom with blue
and green accents. The bedframe
is a piece she found on Facebook
Marketplace, then painted to match
the wallpaper and rug.

TO SEE MORE OF WENDY'S HOME,
LEARN ABOUT HER CLASSES OR
PURCHASE HER BOOK, VISIT
CH A I R W H I M S Y.COM A N D
@CH A I R W H I M S Y O N IN S TAGR AM.

IABOVE, LEFTI BOY GIRL. In the primary bathroom, Wendy decided to mix and
match her husband’s favorite color with her style. “We needed to get new
flooring and new shower tiles, so I went with a white marble look for the floor,
but the shower has blue tiles,” she says. “My curtains in there are pale pink, so
there was pink and blue, and the wallpaper married the pink and blue together.
My husband likes that blue shade, so I painted the tub too. I try to be nice to him
when I can.”
IRIGHTI BLUE FRIDAS. The downstairs bathroom features white accents, a
multi-colored shower curtain and another Frida Kahlo portrait. “When I first
needed things for my walls, I didn’t have a lot of money for fine art,” Wendy says.
“My daughter started painting Fridas for me. I love the color, and I love strong
women. I have two daughters, so we’re dominating this house. My poor husband,” she laughs.
60 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

ITOP, LEFTI PRIMARY BEDROOM. In the primary bedroom,
Wendy started the design with the blue-and-white window
coverings. “Those are automated shades,” she says. “I didn’t
want to raise and lower them every day. It’s the best money
I’ve ever spent.” The bedframe is one Wendy has had for a
long time, which she repainted to match the bedroom colors.
The chairs are from Facebook Marketplace, which Wendy
reupholstered and repainted.

ITOP, RIGHTI LOBSTER GUEST ROOM. This guest room used
to be Wendy’s daughter’s room before she moved out. “She
still stays here when she comes to visit,” she says. Wendy
chose a red-and-pink lobster wallpaper, paired with Annie
Selke bedding and a bedframe she found on Facebook Marketplace. The red nightstand is also from Facebook Marketplace. “I painted it and embellished the flowers on the end, to
make it unique and different,” Wendy says.

IABOVE, LEFTI WRITING DESK. In the corner of the guest
room is a charming vanity area Wendy created. “A neighbor
had left that [desk] on the street for the trash,” she says. “I
picked it up, painted it, gave it some new knobs.” She also
stripped the top but decided to leave it with its original wood
color.

IABOVE, RIGHTI BATHROOM BLEND. In the guest bathroom,
Wendy chose the pattern for the wallpaper and shower curtain to match the bedding in the bedroom. “I love that print
so much,” she says. “I painted the wainscoting pink, because
why not do that instead of white?” Wendy says she’s not
always sure an idea will work well, even once she starts. “I’m
always hoping it works out,” she says.
august | september 2024 61

GUESTHOUSE GREETINGS. The greenhouse was
a Covid project. “I’d always wanted a greenhouse,
and I talked to my neighbor into helping me build
it, he’s a handyman,” Wendy says. “Then Covid hit,
but it was outside, so he just kept working.” The
space is very custom, incorporating features such
as old doors and windows.

IABOVE, RIGHTI FABRIC FRENZY. Wendy is constantly buying
fabric for her upholstery projects and uses several methods
to store and organize it. “I use a lot of filing cabinets,” she
says. “I put other bolts of fabric in large trashcans.” This
Mexican bookcase is another area where she keeps fabrics.
“A friend from across the street gave me that,” she says.
“She wanted to get rid of it.”
ILEFTI PAINTED POTS. Inside the greenhouse, Wendy keeps
her gardening gear and hanging plants that need shade.
Though the fun pots look handpainted, she actually bought
them at her local Texas market, H-E-B.
IBELOWI CHAIR WHIMSY WORKSHOP. The workshop for
Chair Whimsy grew in two different phases. Wendy and
Blane had the first half built in 2015 and doubled the square
footage a few years later. On the inside of the doors, Wendy
added scraps of wallpaper from another project. “The doors
were just so drab, so I put it on there,” she says.

august | september 2024 63

Memories
Porthole views add cozy charm to this
New Hampshire vacation home.
W RIT TE N BY DANA MAU E R
A R C H I T E C T U R A L D E S I G N BY B A R N E S VA N Z E A R C H I T E C TS
INTE RIO R D E S IG N BY TIF FANY H ARRIS D E S IG NS
PH OTO G R APH Y BY G RE G PRE MRU

august | september 2024 65

|ABOVE| GOING OVERBOARD. The Fourth of July is a big
celebration on the lake for this patriotic family so they chose
oversized flags to be seen from the lake above.

|BELOW| FRAME IT. A framed vintage swimsuit and reclaimed brick set the scene for plenty of movement in and
out of the house.

When you have the opportunity to
build a new home, an overwhelming number of significant choices open up. Choosing an architect or designer
who understands your goals can take the mundane
choices off your hands and free you up to focus on the
fun details.
“The goal of this new construction property was to
build a cozy and welcoming lakehouse, both on the
inside and out, to create lasting memories,” says Michael
Patrick, principal at BarnesVanze Architects. Completed
in 2021 on the coastline at Lake Winnipesaukee, New
Hampshire, this vacation home has no shortage of picturesque views.
ALL ABOUT THE VIEWS
Through the trees, BarnesVanze sited the house at the
perfect point along a sloping hillside with a beautiful
deck overlooking the lake. Rotating the footprint for the
best views, the architects also kept in mind the house
must have a good relationship to a future structure. “We
chose a site that was up the hill enough for great views
and safely back from the 100-foot distance required for
no disturbance to trees and vegetation,” Michael explains.
66 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

LET’S PLAY. Local stone
was sourced for the cozy,
classic lake-style fireplace. The TV is hidden
above behind cabinetry
to encourage games and
outdoor play.

august | september 2024 67

LIGHT AND AIRY. Keeping the kitchen light, a tile
backsplash from Tabarka and Blue Island Pendants
from Ballard Designs brighten the room without distracting from the views. The kitchen drapery fabric is
from Carleton V. and kitchen counter stools are from
Ballard Designs.

“We found a place where the existing trees in that zone
framed beautiful views of the lake from the deck, while
the trees would also provide privacy and screen the
house from views from the lake,” Michael says. This gave
them the opportunity to build a treehouse for the kids
and a home that fit naturally into the land.

august | september 2024 69

|ABOVE| BREATH OF FRESH AIR. Inside, the rooms match the views with soothing greens and blues reflected in
a vintage mirror. The queen bed is from Serena and Lily with custom pillows and drapery fabric from Schumacher.
The bedding is by Pine Cone Hill and the ceiling light is from Visual Comfort.

Build fun into every
square foot.

When awkward or unused spaces show up, add in some
unexpected functionality. Inside this vacation home, the space
at the top of the stairs was closed to create a play area with a
vintage window and flag. As is often the case, great ideas come
from a combination of necessity and inspiration. “The stair up
from the outdoor showers and entry/mudroom into the main
level great room required several inches of head height that we
didn’t have to spare,” Michael explains. “We decided on raising
the floor over the stair, under the gambrel roof line at the side,
and tucking a little space there, perfect for kids.”

70 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

Consider these tips from the design team for your odd-space
solutions:
• “Old mechanical spaces under roofs and in corners are sometimes ideal to be repurposed into cozy nooks for kids’ bunk
rooms or sitting areas,” Michael says. “We’re always looking
for ways to use every square foot of a house that we can,”
he explains.
• “Our biggest tip is to add windows wherever possible in
small and awkward spaces. It’s a quick way to completely
change a space and make it feel bigger without changing the
structure,” Tiffany says.
• Turn an attic into a family hangout. “The attic was initially
difficult to work with but by adding fun storage in the low
spaces and working with what you have, something that
was initially unusable or forgotten can really become a
favorite space,” Tiffany says.

KID-FRIENDLY. Tucked under the bathroom cabinet is a step stool for kids. Details like the
Tabarka tile in the laundry and durable fabrics let everyone focus more on the fun of being
at the lake. The wall sconces are by Visual Comfort with custom shades.
august | september 2024 71

COTTAGE CHARM. From the personal touches like the vintage chair above to
the nightstands from Frontgate, each room encourages relaxation. Bedding
from Serena and Lily and custom drapery fabric from Schumacher complete
the soothing look.

LAKESIDE APPROACH
On the exterior, materials in the shingle-style inspiration were selected. This style is very flexible and allows variations of certain vernacular
or humble materials to significant effect. “In this case, we wanted the
upper volume of the house to read differently from the lower, to break
down the scale and make it more approachable, so we used shingles
above and siding below with its quieter, longer lines,” Michael says.
“Under the back deck, we had fun with braces, brackets and trellises
to avoid a dark and cavernous space under the structure and give it
a sense of lightness and delight,” he explains. They wanted the raised
deck to appear grounded as an attractive garden element, so trellis
details were added and made the home look much more beautiful and
well-integrated from the lake.
72 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

VACATION CENTRAL
“Although it may not be obvious (we hope it isn’t!)
lakeside homes present a particular challenge of having
two fronts: one as you arrive by road and the other as
seen and approached from the lake,” Michael says. “In an
efficient vacation-home plan and for clarity of circulation, it’s sometimes good to avoid two front doors and
entry halls,” he says. BarnesVanze solved this issue by
creating a side-door entry with a lovingly fashioned
bracketed roof to attract the eye to the entry from both
approaches. On the inside, the homeowners wanted a
family centric space, so the living room and kitchen were
situated in the middle of the home, with two identical
wings on either side. The two wings have pocket doors
so they can easily become mini suites to host multiple
families at one time.

|BELOW| VINTAGE UTILITY. Cleanup is a breeze with a
central wash basin in the laundry room. The sliding barn
door and carefully placed windows allow as much natural
light into the center of the house as possible.

august | september 2024 73

THE BOATHOUSE. Adding vintage boat lights and chairs from a family residence created a cozy spot in the top of the boathouse to play games or hang out. Furnished with a sectional from Pottery Barn and a mini-fridge, it has all the comforts
needed outside of the main home.

CHARMING DURABILITY
The homeowners love color, pattern and coastal traditions, which
are reflected in the home’s interior by Tiffany Harris Designs, based
in Los Angeles. Bringing the outdoors in, lake-inspired colors such
as greens and blues were selected. “To give the space a vintage
feel, brick was used in the mudroom and handmade tile from
Tabarka Studio was used in the laundry room and as the kitchen
backsplash,” Tiffany says.
Durability was also important since the homeowners have three
young children. “Indoor/outdoor fabrics were used throughout
as the homeowners wanted the house to be bulletproof so the
kids could be free to be kids,” Tiffany explains. The bedrooms were
designed and themed around the family’s love for camping under
the stars. “In lakeside properties, we’re often inspired by boats
and marine culture, and the porthole was a great way to provide a
charming structural connection,” Michael says.
The boathouse even got a face-lift, and the upper level is now
a game room with vintage lights and custom-matched builtins.
In the future, the homeowners plan to build a main home on the
site so their vacation home can then become the guest house for
friends joining them at the lake.
74 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

COME ASHORE. Decorated with a custom “Evergreen” sign and attractive balcony, the boathouse greets guests from the lake.
Outdoor dining chairs from Frontgate and outdoor sofas from Ballard Designs make for a perfect gathering area.

august | september 2024 75

Lakeside
A rundown camp is creatively transformed
into a family vacation home.
W RIT TE N BY LAU RE N DARC ANG E LO
PH OTO G R APH Y BY S AR AH S Z WAJ KO S I D E S IG N BY J E S S IE TO B IAS

Usually, when people say their home is
“steps away” from the water, they don’t mean literal steps. In the
case of this dreamy lakeside cottage in Camden, Maine, it really is
true. “We were dealing with really strict regulations because it’s so
close to the water,” says interior designer Jessie Tobias.
A local resident of Camden herself, Jessie was a part of the project from the beginning. “Originally, it was a very old and rundown
camp,” she says. We completely changed the layout, added on to
it and brought it up to modern standards while trying to maintain
some of the cottage feel.”

august | september 2024 77

78 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

WARM AND COZY. In the main living space, Jessie chose warm whites and other soft tones to create that lakeside feel.
“Using the natural elements such as the wood beams and the wood floors was really important because that’s what you
see in nature all around you and that’s what keeps things warm and cozy,” Jessie says.

BIG WORK FOR SMALL CHANGES
The homeowners wanted to both capitalize on the stunning
views and give each of the three bedrooms an adjacent bathroom. “We couldn’t change the footprint much because of the
regulations, so it was just being really creative with what was
happening within that footprint,” Jessie says. “We were able to
change some of the volume so we could make shed dormers
and work around that.” When one of the home’s 3.5 baths
didn’t have an exterior wall for a window, Jessie got creative
there too. “We used an old ship window to pop light through
the bedroom.”
Part of bringing the house up to modern standards also
involved giving the home a new foundation. “We had to raise
the entire home up and put a foundation underneath it,”
Jessie says, “They supported it from the base and then lifted
it with a crane.” When it was finally completed, the home was
redone from top to bottom. The only original elements that
remained were a clawfoot tub and a porcelain sink.

august | september 2024 79

ALL ABOUT THE VIEW
In keeping with the home’s location, everything on
the first floor was oriented to the lakeside views. “It was
all about being able to walk out onto the porch and
seeing the lake right in front of you,” Jessie says. “All
the windows and the daybed incorporate that.” Even
the kitchen sink is positioned just so. “We dropped the
windowsill height down so it was closer to the counter
so you can really feel like you’re connected to the lake,”
she explains.
80 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

Inspiration for the interior design direction actually
started with the home’s exterior color. “The client had
always known she had wanted an indigo home, so that
is the basis of the entire design,” Jessie says. From there,
Jessie worked with the homeowner to establish a color
palette and finishes. “That was the fun part, because I
was working with a client who had such great taste,”
she says. “We tried to keep the palette cohesive
throughout, so you’ll see all the neutrals with some
blue and green accents.”

ITOP, RIGHTI SHIP SHAPE. Upstairs, Jessie incorporated plenty of shiplap for both aesthetic and function. “It always makes sense to use shiplap since it’s
so durable and it adds a nice clean line,” she says.
IRIGHTI AHOY MATEY! This fun nautical detail is
about form and function. “There was one bathroom
that didn’t have an exterior wall to have a window,
so we used an old ship window to pop light through
the bedroom,” Jessie says.

august | september 2024 81

VACATION-HOME DREAMS
In the open living space on the main floor, Jessie opted
for warm tones to keep the area soft and welcoming.
“We wanted to keep things light and bright, but we
didn’t use any stark whites,” she says. Natural elements
like the white oak floors, wood beams and textured
82 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

backsplash all contribute to the space’s cozy aesthetic. A
daybed located directly beneath a set of windows is an
especially fun detail. “That was a custom piece made by
the local cabinet maker and we made a nice thick top on
it so it can also serve as overflow sleeping,” Jessie says.

ILEFTI BLACKSMITH STYLE. These
barstools add a modern element to the
space. “They’re by a local blacksmith
named Ben Leavitt,” Jessie says.

august | september 2024 83

While there’s no designated primary suite, the
three upstairs bedrooms each have a unique
bathroom. One features a gray penny tile, while
another hosts a clawfoot tub original to the house.
“In this house, we used shiplap throughout the
bedrooms and some of the bathrooms and then in
the hallways,” Jessie says. “It always makes sense to
use shiplap since it’s so durable and it adds a nice
clean line.” With furnishings from the family’s own
vintage and antiques collections, this vacation
home is a fresh and timeless lakeside escape.
S EE S O U R C ES, PAGE 113

NARROWLY ADDED. Creating a bathroom for each
of the three upstairs bedrooms without changing the
footprint of the house required some creativity. “This
one is a longer, narrow bathroom that we kind of
carved out of an unused space,” Jessie says.
84 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

NIGHTTIME WAVES.
Sleeping is cozy
and easy in this bed
nestled into a corner
with a wonderful
view of the lake.

“The client had always known she had wanted an
, so that is the basis of the entire design.”

indigo home

86 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

INDIGO, PLEASE. Formerly a rundown camp on the edge of a lake in Camden, Maine, this
cottage got a major upgrade, complete with a new color. “That was one of the first design
decisions we made,” Jessie says. “The homeowner had always wanted an indigo house.”

august | september 2024 87

Entertaining

A Day

WRIT TEN BY KE LLY M C MAS TE R
PHOTOGR APH E D BY LIS A CO H E N
S T YLED BY TE S S NE W MAN- MO RRIS

at the

A coastal campsite
comes to life with a bit
of extra planning and
thoughtful touches.

88 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

A day of lapping waves and
sunshine followed by the aroma of a shrimp boil
and a crackling fire are what cherished summer memories are made
of. Gather friends and family and create your own unforgettable
seaside set up—and if the sea isn’t nearby, any lake, river, pond or
backyard will do just fine.
Perfect for a nap, a cozy conversation or a quick break from the sun,
a pup tent is the star of the show. Set up a cot or two piled high with
pillows, then add a crate or small table to create a “living room” of
sorts. A bevy of pillows will work well if you find cots cumbersome.

august | september 2024 89

Beach chairs set about for lounging, reading and eating are a must-have and beach blankets or mats also
serve as seating. Cotton rugs and throws work well to
absorb water and sand both inside and outside the
tent. Add a makeshift laundry line to hang wet towels
after swimming; it can also provide extra shade
Small stools, tables or benches are ideal for serving
your drinks and food while nonbreakable glasses,
plates and serving pitchers eliminate any worry of
broken glass.
Baskets to carry things to and from your site and
lanterns for lighting after the sunsets add to the
cozy ambience.
As family and friends settle in for the simple joys of
good food, good company and the magic of the seaside, you’ll be glad you spent the extra time to create a
memorable site they will think back fondly on for years
to come.

90 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

New England Shrimp Boil
With Old Bay® Seasoning
PREP TIME: 35 minutes
COOK TIME: 13 minutes
SERVINGS: 6 (large)
INGREDIENTS:
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 large cloves garlic, sliced
2 quarts (8 cups) chicken broth
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
4 tablespoons Old Bay® Classic seafood seasoning
1/2 teaspoon McCormick® Pure Ground black pepper
1-1/2 lbs. baby red or gold potatoes
12 to 16 ounces cippolini onions, peeled, left whole
1 lb. Portuguese chorizo sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 ears fresh corn, husks and silk strands removed, cut
into 2-inch pieces
30 small littleneck clams, scrubbed and drained
2-1/2 lbs. unpeeled extra-jumbo shrimp (16 to 20 count)
2 lemons, cut into wedges

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Heat oil in 12-quart stockpot on medium heat. Add
garlic; cook gently 2 minutes without browning. Add
chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, 3 tablespoons of the
Old Bay® seasoning and pepper. Bring to boil.
2. Stir in potatoes. Return to boil. Cover and cook for 5
minutes. Add onions and sausage, replace cover. Cook 5
minutes longer. Add corn and clams. (If ingredients are
not covered by broth, add up to 2 cups water to cover.)
Cook, covered, 10 minutes longer or until clams open
and corn is tender, stirring occasionally.
3. Add shrimp. Return to boil, stirring gently. Cover.
Remove from heat. Let stand 5 to 8 minutes or just until
shrimp turn pink.
4. Drain cooking liquid. Pour contents of pot into large
serving bowl or platter. Sprinkle with remaining 1
tablespoon Old Bay® seasoning. Serve with lemon
wedges on the side.

RECIPE COURTESY OF MCCORMICK OLD BAY ® SEASONING. VISIT MCCORMICK .COM.

august | september 2024 91

New England Treasure
A designer breathes new life into her family’s 1970s seaside condo with
thoughtful updates and beautiful furniture from local artisan Thos. Moser.
WRIT TEN BY LAUR A SHIMKO I DE S IG N BY ALE X TH E O FANID IS, S TU D IO ALPH A INTE RIO RS
PHOTOS CO U RTE S Y O F TH O S. MO S E R

Sometimes, the most chal-

lenging projects are those closest to
your heart. For Alex Theofanidis, the
opportunity to redesign her family’s
generational vacation home was a
dream come true, though it came
with its own set of challenges.

REFLECTIONS. The proximity of the
waterfront provided much of the
inspiration for the design. The exterior
palette reflects the color of the water,
while the interior palette with its warm
wood tones and light shades reflects
the sandy beaches.
92 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

DREAMY VIEWS. Beachy vibes continue in this
bedroom with a generous window view of the water outside. During the renovation, designer Alex
Theofanidis had to get creative to include more
sleeping options while also balancing storage
opportunities.

“In general, it
was extremely
dated, but it had

the best
exterior views.”

august | september 2024 93

“The greatest challenge of redesigning a
generational home, from my experience, was
the pressure I put on myself for everything to be
perfect,” Alex says. “Of course, I have this pressure
with every project I work on, but it’s different
when you’re looking for the ‘Wow!’ reaction and
approval from your entire family.”
THE TRANSFORMATION
The project began in early 2020 with the goal
of creating an updated space, both aesthetically
and functionally. “Since the project was a fullgut redesign, there was an unlimited amount of
possibility of what we could do with the space,”
Alex says.
Located in Kennebunkport on the Maine coast,
the condo was like a time capsule of hallmark
1970s style. “One bathroom had avocado green
with fuchsia and orange linoleum floor tiles,” Alex
says. “In general, it was extremely dated, but it
had the best exterior views.”
Because of the abundance of windows looking
out on gorgeous views of the beach, one of the
main goals of the design was to created connection between interior and exterior spaces. “It was
about bringing the outside in,” Alex says. “My
thought was there was no point in designing an
interior space to distract from the views.”

ITOPI SUBTLE STATEMENT. Thos. Moser’s Bowback
Stools are the highlight in this kitchen design, balancing both comfort and a natural aesthetic reflected
in the rest of the home. “The two-tone wood is a
favorite accent as well as the low back profile,” Alex
says. “It creates a statement but doesn’t overpower
the kitchen island.”
IBOTTOMI EXTENDED DINING. Alex selected both
the Cumberland Chair and the Wishbone Extension
Table for the dining area. “The dining table material is stunning and it’s able to extend, which was
important for entertaining purposes,” Alex explains.
“Yet again, I’m trying to evoke a modernized yet
timeless environment.”

94 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

IBELOW, LEFTI ODE TO 1973. Alex included this
custom newel post at the foot of the staircase to
celebrate the home’s completed renovation. After the
construction manager suggested adding a mortgage
button to the top of the post, Alex selected the year
1973, the year her grandparents purchased the home.

ELEVATED AND INSPIRED. Thos. Moser’s Shaker Round
Stand adds a perfect combination of modern and classic
design to the entry area. “Seeing our designs flourish in the
space Alex has created is very satisfying,” says Kelsey Wing
from Thos. Moser. “Alex put so much thoughtful consideration
into every choice she made, and we’re honored that Thos.
Moser was included in those choices. The space is elevated,
inspired and timeless—a perfect canvas for our furniture.”

When it came to function, Alex focused on maximizing storage and creating more sleeping options for the
growing family. “As the designer, my must-haves evolved
around designing fully custom millwork throughout
the entire project, from creating a chef’s kitchen to fully
optimizing the use of each space,” she says.
MADE IN MAINE
Aside from the view, the most eye-catching aspect of
the cozy seaside cottage are the wood furniture pieces
from Thos. Moser. Alex is passionate about utilizing
local craftsmen and artisans in her home designs, so
august | september 2024 95

FOUR-POST PERFECTION. This Pencil Post Bed by
Thos. Moser adds warmth and a touch of modern
style to the primary bedroom. “I wanted to create
a serene atmosphere for the primary bed but also
keep a timeless New England quality to the space,
which the four-poster bed definitely executes,”
Alex says. Tucked into the back corner is a Newport
Chair by Thos. Moser.

96 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

Thos. Moser proved to be the perfect fit for furniture
choice. “I have known Thos. Moser furniture before I
even entered the world of interior design and I have
always admired the craftsmanship, attention to detail
and respect for natural wood,” Alex says. “My goal for
every project I have in Maine or New England is that
there is a Thos. Moser piece, because I believe the
designs evoke a true essence of New England style.”
With its updated design, timeless elements and
breathtaking view, this beachside cottage highlights
the best of New England style while also maintaining
the charm and sentimental value of decades of
family memories.
“I feel incredibly grateful that this project was my
first project going solo,” Alex says. “Not only was I able
to ultimately lead the design of a full-gut oceanfront
property, but I was also able to create something that
my whole family can enjoy for generations to come.”
IRIGHTI CHERRY ON TOP. Alex selected Thos. Moser’s
Ellipse Chair and Ottoman as well as the Shaker Round
Stand in this space. “We loved the organic quality of the
Ellipse Chair,” Alex says. “It’s extremely comfortable. We
wanted to use cherry here to accentuate the classic wood
species of Maine/New England.”

TO LE A R N MOR E A BOUT T H OS. M O S ER F U R N ITU R E, VIS IT THO S M O S ER.CO M.

august | september 2024 97

Project House

P layful

W RIT TE N BY LAU R A S H IMKO
D E S IG NE D BY TH E F OX G RO U P
PH OTO G R APH S CO U RTE S Y O F TH E F OX G RO U P

& Practical
Our Project House laundry room’s design has fun punches of color,
touches of charm and nods to nature.
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FROM BOARD TO BEAUTIFUL. Each room goes from a vision in Cara’s imagination to a well-crafted
design board, noting every necessary element, and then on to the final execution.

98 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com


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KEEPING IT CUSTOM. This sketch of the cabinetry demonstrates the highly functional design the
team at The Fox Group crafted. Details like the brass rod for hanging laundry elevate the space visually while also providing practical usage. As in the kitchen, the custom cabinetry allows for an abundance of storage options as well as providing a lovely focal point.

Sometimes we can overlook
certain rooms, especially those that serve a
primarily practical purpose, when considering
a renovation or redesign of our homes. The
laundry room is a classic example, often shoved
into the back of the home or tucked away out
of sight. But for The Fox Group team, hard at
work on our Project House in Utah, the laundry room was not a mere afterthought in the
design process.
“Laundry can be a lot of long and hard work,
but we like to make doing the laundry fun by
creating playful yet functional laundry rooms,”
says Cara Fox of the Fox Group. “We firmly
believe that one’s environment affects mood,
mindset and productivity, which is why it’s
important to us to create spaces that inspire
and motivate.”

CUSTOM AND COLORFUL
Taking center stage, cabinetry by CS Cabinetry & Design has charming, fun and practical
features. “The cabinets were created with functionality and beauty in mind,” Cara says. “There
is space for hanging laundry, lots of storage
for supplies and linens, cutouts for the washer
and dryer as well as space for three laundry
hampers.” The blue custom finish, including the
base, case and crown by Woodgrain, evokes the
look and feel of a soft blue sky, connecting to
the nature-inspired theme throughout the rest
of the home. “We love to incorporate custom
details into our cabinetry to bring visual detail
and create a focal point by drawing the eye,”
Cara explains.

august | september 2024 99

CREATING CONNECTION. The key to a cohesive home design is using the same or similar elements in different rooms. Here,
the scalloped detailing on the custom cabinetry is echoed throughout the rest of the home, including the cabinetry in the kitchen.

DARLING DETAILS
Gorgeous floral and trellis wallpaper by Laura Ashley
provided the inspiration for much of the details in this
space. “We chose this playful wallpaper on all the walls
to bring in pattern and an adorable floral design,” Cara
says. Drawing from the floral palette, the design team
opted for a scalloped flush-mount light painted deep
red as well as a red and cream Roman shade window
treatment in ticking-stripe fabric. Brass accents add
charm and a timeless feel, while the canvas rolling
laundry hampers are cute and functional. “They are
easy to use and store dirty laundry until it is ready to
be washed,” Cara says. “The caster feet allow for ease of
transportation between rooms.”

woodwork in a home is so important to us—it is the
visual frame of the room and helps to ground all the design elements,” Cara says. Rather than choosing tile, the
team opted for resilient hardwood flooring for both style
and practical reasons. “Hardwood adds warmth to the
space and is easier and more comfortable on your back
and feet than tile while doing laundry,” Cara says. The
countertops reflect the flooring, tying together visually
and providing the perfect practical space to fold laundry.
Vibrant and fun, this laundry room design rejects
dreary and drab and embraces color and feels inviting—the perfect motivation for doing one of the more
mundane chores in a household.
S EE S O U R C ES, PAGE 113

WONDERFUL WOODWORK
Another main element in the design is the wood in
the cabinetry, flooring and even countertops. “The
100 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

TO L EA R N M O R E A B O U T TH E F OX GR O U P, VIS IT TH E F OX G R OU P.CO M.

Gathering Generations for 100 Years!

Designed for Comfort
Crafted to Last

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THE ART OF LIVING BEAUTIFULLY.

Project House

Just Getting

Started

Brother and sister design team Melissa Olson and
Brent Green share the origin of their company,
Cottage & Key, and give us a glimpse into exciting
plans for our 2024-25 Project House.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PLANK AND PILLOW

W RIT TE N BY LAU R A S H IMKO
PH OTO G R APH Y BY MAD E LINE H ARPE R PH OTO G R APH Y,
COT TAG E & KE Y AND PLANK AND PILLOW

There is something special about the ability to look at
an empty lot and envision a beautiful home full of character and charm. For
brother and sister Brent Green and Melissa Olson, casting a vision and bringing it to life is the passion that fuels their Austin-based home design and
construction business, Cottage & Key. The duo has signed on to spearhead
our next Project House—a cute and cozy cottage nestled in the fast-growing suburban community of Taylor, Texas. As they prepare to get started on
constructing this new build, they share what brought them to this point and
the vision they have for this exciting project.
102 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

This rendering of Melissa and
Brent’s vision for our Project House
was a collaboration between them
and Plank and Pillow. “We aimed
for a cottage feel that seamlessly
integrates with the surrounding
1950s neighborhood,” Melissa says.
“The white brick façade and arched
doorway add a touch of timeless
character, creating a space that
feels both cozy and elevated.”

ILEFTI Originally a dark and dated cave-like atmosphere,
this kitchen received Melissa’s total makeover, transforming into a light and bright space full of simplicity and
charm. “The dark cabinets were refinished in a creamy
white color, yellow walls painted white, and concrete floors
got upgraded to a white oak engineered hardwood,” she
says. Champagne bronze hardware and handmade zellige
tiles bring warmth. “The concrete pendant lights add a
touch of texture, and their rounded shape softens all the
straight lines,” she says.

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

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ALL IN THE FAMILY
With Brent managing the construction side of the
business, Melissa handles all the design elements. Their
combined love of their crafts stems from their father’s
work as a General Contractor. “He was always knee-deep in
renovations at home as well as working on client projects,”
Melissa says. “Witnessing his work firsthand constantly
exposed me to the variety of materials and the endless
possibilities for creating one-of-a-kind homes.” After he
assisted her on renovating her first home, she knew she
needed to help others realize their own dream homes.

 

  

 

 

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Dream team Melissa
Olson and Brent Green
bring their skills in design and construction together to create Cottage
& Key. “Envisioning the
space—from function to
layout and materials to
final touches—and then
seeing it all transform
from dream to reality
during construction is
the best feeling ever,”
Melissa says.

 

 

PHOTO BY MADELINE HARPER PHOTOGRAPHY

 

 

PHOTO BY MADELINE HARPER PHOTOGRAPHY

IBELOWI Melissa and Brent carefully crafted a floor plan
that serves both form and function. The shared living areas
of the living room, kitchen and breakfast nook all flow together in an open plan. They decided to tuck the mudroom
and laundry room near the back entrance for functionality.
Two guest bedrooms with a shared bath sit at the front of
the home, while the spacious primary suite resides in the
back for added privacy. The garage is thoughtfully hidden
and accessible through the back alley.

 

 

 

 

august | september 2024 103

PHOTO BY MADELINE HARPER PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO COURTESY OF COTTAGE & KEY

This cozy kitchen from a past project is brimming with calm,
neutral vibes, but the process of renovation posed several
challenges to Melissa and Brent. “It needed a lot of love, with
a hole in the floor and a disconnected feel,” Melissa says.
“We saw its potential and chose to remove a few walls. The
kitchen became a beautiful, open space that flows into the
living room.”

This shower was part of a whole bathroom renovation for a
family with teens. Melissa and Brent totally revamped the
basic builder-grade style of the original to give the family a
space that fit their aesthetic and functional needs. “Warm
tones and natural textures create a space that's both stylish
and adaptable, growing alongside a teenager's evolving needs
and personal style,” Melissa says.

HOME + HEART
The creation of Cottage & Key was the result of successful collaborations between Brent and Melissa on several
design and construction projects in the Austin area. “It
grew organically,” Melissa says. “Friends would reach out
for help updating their spaces, and Brent, with his construction expertise, would travel from Missouri to bring
those designs to life.”
As word spread of their work, demand continued to
grow, and the pair realized that they had the opportunity
to bring their skillsets together to help even more homeowners realize their dreams. “It felt like a natural next step
to turn our passion into a full-fledged business—and
Cottage & Key was born,” Melissa says.
Their brand is characterized by a refined yet cozy aesthetic, full of character and timeless charm.

square feet, the single-story home will be for a smaller
family or couple. While the house is a completely new
build, Melissa has planned elements that bring in timeless
elements to meld together old and new. To create the
floor plan, they collaborated with Henry and Kelly Jones at
Plank and Pillow (@plankandpillow). “We knew we wanted
the classic English cottage charm,” Melissa says. “Their
floor plan designs aligned with our vision, and together
we crafted the ideal layout—cozy and full of character,
but with a modern, functional flow.”
When asked about any anticipated challenges for this
project, Brent said that they believe translating their
aesthetic to a suburban setting may come with some
considerations. However, they are ready to take on the
challenge. “Witnessing the transformation of a bare piece
of land into someone’s home is incredibly rewarding,” he
says. “It’s a great reminder of the impact we can have on
people’s lives as they are starting the next chapter in a
home they can be proud of.”

GETTING STARTED
Though only an empty lot right now, Melissa and Brent
have big plans for our future Project House. At 1,600
104 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

Our Sponsors Are
the Backbone of the Build
The list of amazing sponsors for Project House Austin is growing, and we are delighted and grateful to have
them join us! Please visit each sponsor’s website for more inspiration and information and follow along as
we reveal their products in the new build.

MRCOOL®
Hoodsly Wooden Range Hoods
Hoodsly began when it became apparent that there was a need in the kitchen
industry for a range hood that could
be personalized without the need for a
cabinetmaker. They proudly source all
materials in the United States, and all the
hoods are made in North Carolina.
Visit hoodsly.com.

Decorative Ceiling Tiles
From ceiling tiles and beams to wall panels, backsplashes and moldings, Decorative Ceiling Tiles has everything you need
to elevate your space. With easy ordering
and world-wide shipping, they even offer
free quotes and estimates on materials for
your project.
Visit decorativeceilingtiles.net.

Comfort made simple is the MRCOOL®
motto, and they live up to it with innovative, reliable, and efficient heating and
cooling options for any space. MrCool
DIY® ductless mini-splits are the only true
DIY® HVAC on the market.
Visit mrcool.com.

Mantle Furniture

Oatey

Steves & Sons, Inc.

Since 1916, Oatey has provided reliable,
high-quality products for the residential
and commercial plumbing industries,
with a commitment to delivering quality, building trust, and improving lives.
Today, Oatey operates a comprehensive
manufacturing and distribution network
to supply thousands of products for professional builders, contractors, engineers,
and do-it-yourself consumers around the
world.
Visit oatey.com.

The Steves family, true pioneers, established a lumber business in San Antonio,
Texas over 150 years ago. As the Steves’
reputation for hard work and dedication
to quality rapidly grew, they became
the heart of the lumber business in the
southwestern US. Today, Steves & Sons
continues its commitment to craftsmanship and style of interior and exterior
doors while building on the tradition of
environmental respect and responsibility.
Visit stevesdoors.com.

Mullican® Hardwood Flooring
Mullican® Flooring was founded in 1985
along the banks of the Greenbrier River in
Ronceverte, WV. Bill Mullican produced
beautifully crafted hardwood floors
from prime local timber and established
Mullican® Flooring as the premier brand
of hardwood flooring That tradition of
legendary craftsmanship continues today.
Visit mullicanflooring.com.

Cherokee Brick
Founded in 1877, Cherokee Brick is made
in their Georgia and Mississippi plants.
You won’t find another building material
with a lower life-cycle cost than brick.
With durable protection from fire, wind,
water and mold, it is one of the best investments you can make for your home.
Visit cherokeebrick.com.

S TAY TUNED FO R P ROJE C T H OUSE AUST I N UPDAT E S A N D FOLLOW A LO N G O N IN S TAGR AM
@ COT TAGESAN DB U NGALOWS A N D @COT TAGE AND KE Y A S PR O GR ES S IS R E VEA L ED.

For over 60 years, the Parker family has
been handcrafting furniture in North
Carolina. Upholding the heritage of exacting standards in every stitch, staple, cut
and joint. Mantle strives for a standard of
quality that’s worthy of life’s moments,
where every detail is refined to enhance
the everyday.
Visit mantlefurniture.com.

Putnam Rolling Ladder
Putnam has been a leader in the rolling
ladder industry since 1905. Originating
in New York City, Putnam Rolling Ladder
became a symbol of achievement, adding
layers of prestige, functionality, and design to homes. Synonymous with timeless
heritage, sophistication, and enduring
quality rolling ladders are a beautiful
addition to any home.
Visit putnamrollingladder.com.

Willow Bath and Vanity
Providing products that blend style,
design and safety for your bathroom,
Willow specializes in the timeless beauty
of natural wood.
Visit willowbathandvanity.com.

Read a Room

IABOVEI This lighthouse is artist Jamie Wyeth’s oasis. Here, he can be inspired
by his own family’s world-renowned art while also exploring his own passions.
Wyeth connects with the beauty of the nature surrounding him. Even when
greeted with such a stunning landscape view, he chooses to draw the seagulls.
IRIGHTI Owners Scott and Martha Finlay note, “Houses, especially the seasonal
variety, may as well be living, breathing things as much in need of constant care
and attention as newborns.” This seasonal home that Scott once claimed to be
“finished,” he now knows will never be done growing.
106 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

W RIT TE N BY MO RG AN AND E RS O N

More to Explore

in

This second collection of cottages reflects Maine’s
charming atmosphere and architecture.
august | september 2024 107

Author Kathleen Hackett, photographer Maura
McEvoy and stylist Basha Burwell continue to visit and document the most quintessential Maine cottages in this sequel to
The Maine House.
As the native Maine authors muse in their introduction to
The Maine House II, “This second volume represents a mission,
one that aims to illustrate that it is possible, indeed essential,
to rescue Maine’s quirky architectural history if we are going to
preserve its singular nature, one that goes hand in hand with a
reverence for the land.”
Charming photos of one-of-a-kind cottages frame the stories
of their inhabitants. After all, a home is a representation of its
owner, from its architectural style to the color of its cabinets.
ILEFTI The Woodlawn House’s guest room pays homage to American
heroes. John Fondas and partner John Knott were careful not to
diminish any historical features of this well-worn inn. They brought
pieces of their own previous houses to make the Woodlawn feel like
home. To see more inspiration from the pair, visit their company
website quadrillefabrics.com. IBELOWI Fondas and Knott’s living
space brings the coastal culture of Maine indoors with sailing motifs
and natural wooden accents. As owners of Quadrille Wallpapers and
Fabrics, their keen eye is evident throughout every project.

108 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

The painted floor of this Maine cottage’s
dining room turns 100 this year! Rather
than painting over it or replacing it with
an actual rug, this family incorporated
the yellow from the floor’s design into
the rest of the dining room.

august | september 2024 109

IABOVEI The reclusive and somewhat legendary Captain
John left his hand-built shack to his caretakers, the Dorrs,
when he died. Generations of Dorrs have cared for this
home—and likely many more will do the same. The Dorrs
added onto the shack, now referred to as a camp, in both
architecture and knick-knacks. “To walk through the door
is to step into a life-size cabinet of curiosities.”
ILEFTI Stylist and co-author Basha Burwell shares her
own cozy cottage. Here, she connects with her family and
friends, remembering fondly those summers in Maine. And
she looks forward to many more, saying of the home, “It
draws you in and holds on in a way only family can.”

Each of the stories captured in The Maine House II are
unique, yet they all share important themes. A group of
bungalows on the waterfront and a lighthouse-turnedhome may sound like two starkly different experiences,
but both homeowners note the sense of peace that
exudes from Maine’s natural landscapes. They both
feel the love of the community surrounding them and
they share the attitude that they are caretakers of their
abodes—not their masters.
The Maine House II reminds us that classic architecture is to be revered, not left to crumble and decay.
Browse through these stories about homeowners who
would all agree that “falling in love with a house isn’t all
that much different from falling in love with a person.”
Let Maine inspire you!
110 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

Tom and Mary Anne Young embrace the coastal atmosphere of their Maine fixer-upper with
whitewashed furniture. However, they use nautical
references sparingly in their coastal cottage. The
couple decorates with family interests and passions,
never trying to fit just one theme.

The Maine House II by Maura
McEvoy, Basha Burwell and
Kathleen Hackett, published
by The Vendome Press,
© 2024, vendomepress.com.

august | september 2024 111

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sources
INSPIRATION FROM COAST TO
COAST
Page 14

For more information about architect Atelier
Drome, visit atelierdrome.com and for more
information about Rockport Building Partners
visit rockportbuildingpartners.com.

Powder-coated steel cabinets in navy, crafted in
Europe by etúHOME: etuhome.com.
Backsplash in Maghreb 17, brick tile by Tabarka
Studio: tabarkastudio.com.
Dekton Fiord countertops: cosentino.com.
Benjamin Moore paint in Decorator’s White and Early
Morning Mist: benjaminmoore.com.
COREtec Premium flooring in Sea Salt Oak;
coretecfloors.com.

Maritime-style lighting by Visual Comfort:

Frida Kahlo art: Brittany Atkinson Art. Visit

MAKING LAKESIDE MEMORIES
Page 64

brittanyatkinsonart.com.

Front door paint: Lake Red by Farrow & Ball. Visit
farrow-ball.com.

Greenhouse pots: H-E-B supermarket. Visit heb.
com.

Guest bedroom wallpaper: Katie Kime. Visit
katiekime.com.

Outdoor rug, floral bedroom wallpaper and bedding,
adjacent bathroom wallpaper and shower curtain:

To see more of Michael’s projects at BarnesVanze
Architects, visit barnesvanze.com or follow them
on Instagram @barnesvanze.

Architect: BarnesVanze Architects
Landscape architect: Eric Buck
Contractor: Wood & Clay
Interior design: Tiffany Harris Designs,
Tiffanyharris.com. Instagram @tiffanyharrisdesign.

Annie Selke. Visit annieselke.com.

Public relations: Lindley Richardson

Outdoor weathered chairs: Naudau. Visit

Public Relations

furniturewithasoul.com.

Staircase riser wallpaper: Etsy. Visit etsy.com.
Umbrella, pink and white: Business and Pleasure.

PLAYFUL & PRACTICAL

Visit businessandpleasureco.com.

Page 98
Cabinetry: CS Cabinetry,

visualcomfort.com.

Umbrella, red and white: Home Depot. Visit

christopherscottcabinetry.com.

homedepot.com.

HISTORICAL WHIMSY

Upstairs hallway artwork: LX Artworks. Visit

Page 24

lxartworks.com.

Oval cabinet knobs: Emtek/Assa Abloy, emtek.com.
Base, case and crown moulding: Woodgrain.
woodgrain.com.

To see more of Cindy’s home, visit her on
Instagram @windowboxcottage.

Upstairs hallway wallpaper: Daisy Bennett Designs.

Wallpaper: Laura Ashley, lauraashleyusa.com.

Kitchen; Cabinets: Schuler Cabinetry, lowes.com.
Living room; Sofas: Birch Lane, wayfair.com.
TV room; Bookcases: Hemnes collection, ikea.com.
Plant stand: Ikea, ikea.com.
Deck; Round table: Lowes, lowes.com.
Bedroom; Lampshade: Ballard Designs,
ballarddesigns.com.

Pantry; Spode woodland plates: available at
Replacement LTD, replacements.com.

LAKEHOUSE COTTAGE MAKEOVER
Page 38

To learn more about Maggie Griffin Design, visit
maggiegriffindesign.com.

Rugs; Looms and Lighting (antiques):
loomsandlighting.com.

Stanton: stantoncarpet.com.
Dash and Albert: annieselke.com.
Lighting; Visual Comfort: visualcomfort.com.
Rejuvenation, rejuvenation.com.

Visit jaimabrowndesigns.com.

Ad Index
Asheford Institute of Antiques
asheford.com............................. 113

Hoodsly
hoodsly.com ................................13

Brass ‘N Bounty and Shiplights
shiplights.com .............................15

Mystic Knotwork LLC
mysticknotwork.com ....................15

Cotton & Crete
cottonandcrete.com .....................13

Riverbend Home
riverbendhome.com .....................23

Decorative Ceiling Tiles
decorativeceilingtiles.com ..............7

Riverbend Home
riverbendhome.com ................... 101

Dutch Tile
dutchtile.com ..............................15

Troutman Chair
troutmanchairs.com ................... 101

The Advertiser’s Index is provided as a service to Cottages & Bungalows readers. Cottages & Bungalows
is not responsible for omissions or typographical errors.

Lamps: Charlie West, charliewest.com.
Textiles; Cowtan & Tout: cowtan.com.
Lauren Servarti: laurenservarti.com.
Schumacher: schumacher.com.
Ralph Lauren: ralphlauren.com.
Kravet: kravet.com.
Art; Caroline Nix Gallery, carolinenixgallery.com.
Gregg Irby Gallery, gregirbygallery.com.

CREATING WITH COLOR
Page 50

For more on Wendy, visit chairwhimsy.com or
follow her on Instagram @chairwhimsy.

Art: Carrie Schmitt. Visit carrieschmittdesign.com.
Bathroom paint: Perfection by Valspar. Visit
valspar.com.

Chandeliers: Stray Dog Designs. Visit
straydogdesigns.com.

Dining room wallpaper: Suzie Q at Mind the Gap.
Visit mindtheg.com.

august | september 2024 113

Room Recipe

W RIT TE N BY IAN M C MAS TE R
PHOTOGR A PH Y AND S T YLING BY E LE NA MO LINO S

All Around

As all interior designers
and seasoned homeowners know,
even when a room feels complete, the
journey has only just begun. Different
seasons bring different motifs. Every
holiday seems worthy of its own look.
Inspiration can come from anywhere
(including this magazine) and turn
into a trip to the flea market or home
décor retailer at the drop of a hat.
But for Elena Molinos, a staging
artist and designer, her home is a reflection of her imagination and takes
her around the world. Elena virtually
travels to dream destinations like
Bali, Ibiza, Jaipur and the Caribbean
Islands along with her audience once
a month to take in the colors and lifestyle of the culture and get inspired.
Upon her “return,” Elena completely
transforms her Highland Beach,
Florida, home to reflect the place she
has visited.
Elena’s concept is not only innovative and unique, but the results are
a masterclass in how color, material
and well-placed accessories can transform any space.

See how a traveling homeowner proves that it’s the journey, not the destination.
1

2

3

4

5

1. Rattan, bamboo, wicker and macrame bring a sense of calm and relaxation to this plant-filled Ibiza-style balcony. 2. Jaipur, India, is also
known as “The Pink City,” so naturally Elena used textiles in pale-pink tones. Playing with textures and florals, she recreates the romanticism of the city. 3. The Bali-inspired decor incorporates lush plants and blends Boho style with tropical chic. 4. With sunset hues, vibrant
fruit and a surfboard, Elena celebrates the sea in her Caribbean Island look. 5. Elena decorates her house with the colors of the US flag as
a patriotic celebration of the nation’s identity. The bold colors intertwine to create an atmosphere of unity and pride.

TO SEE M O RE OF E LE N A’S CR E AT I V E SPACE S, V I SI T E L E NA M OLI NOS D E S I G N.COM A N D @ELENADECORTRAVEL O N IN S TAGR AM.

114 cottages & bungalows | cottagesandbungalowsmag.com