Creating A Cottage Vibe
STORY REBECCA HAY
IT’S COTTAGE SEASON. Welcome to what is quite possibly my favourite time of the year.
Nature is at its peak, colours are the most vibrant, and it’s prime time for outdoor beauty. Canadians are more than willing to dive in, hoping to make the most of our short but sweet summers. I love cottage life and everything about it: the relaxed vibe, the casual atmosphere, that feeling of home.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior with a summer retreat of your own to escape to, or you simply want to bring the cottage vibe into your home every day, here are some of my favourite ways to bring an easy-breezy cottage style to your interiors.
COLOUR
Colour is key to achieving the right ambience in a space, and when it comes to the “cottage vibe,” the ask is fairly specific. It has to be relaxing, comfortable and fresh. In one word: white. White walls and trim are crisp and clean, bringing structure to the rustic-chic cottage aesthetic. For window coverings, white sheers are a great choice. They offer privacy at night, and let the sunlight and views stream in by day.
For the colour you crave, look to nature for inspiration. Sky blue or lush, leafy greens are a popular choice, or red for a classic look. If you’re looking for something with a more modern “pop,” mix it up with hits of fuchsia or purple. Remember, less is more. Use colour
in small doses for things like pillows and accessories.
NATURAL MATERIALS
The cottage look loves wood. Think vintage or rustic finishes for an instant earthy flair. Wood is solid and grounding. A dining table, accent chair, bowl or art – nothing evokes lakeside living like a well-loved piece of wood furniture.
Continue the trend of organic materials by using natural fabrics such as cotton, linen and wool, paired with woven furniture and accessories, like rattan and bamboo. These are all casual and comfortable choices because they wear well and contribute to a relaxed vibe. Bonus: they are environmentally friendly options too.
LARGE FURNITURE
Large-scale furniture is inviting, which is exactly
what the cottage vibe is all about. For instance, a big sectional sofa invites everyone to flop down and put their feet up. If you don’t have room for a large sectional, consider adding small ottomans or poufs to welcome guests to kick back, relax and tune out for a while.
DESIGNER TIP: Details like tongue-and- groove panelling, shiplap, beadboard and wainscotting can create a relaxed atmosphere with the added bonus of durability. You’ll thank yourself when wiping away those sticky ice-cream fingerprints with ease.
ACCESSORIES
Regardless of the style you’ve committed to for your space, remember that the design is all in the details. Something as simple as sunhats hanging on a wall can create a unique look that leaves a memorable impression. Funky fabrics, fresh greenery and bright, airy spaces help to bring the outdoors in.
DESIGNER TIP: Looking for unique furniture finds, but on a budget? Shop garage sales, estate sales and second-hand stores for vintage treasures. They’re a hot-spot for well-made pieces that can make a great style statement. Whether restored to its original glory or updated with modern upholstery and paint, you can bring new life to an old piece of furniture. From a bigger perspective, the more we can upcycle old furniture, the less our environmental impact.
Ultimately, the cottage vibe is all about being comfortable and welcoming company to feel at home. As they say, “mi casa es su casa,” right? That sentiment is about the atmosphere, the food and drinks, and that free feeling that keeps you coming back and leaves you with good memories to last until next summer rolls around. You don’t need a far-off retreat or 30-degree days to enjoy cool cottage style.