Decorating With Vintage Cottage Decor
- 1). Try bargain shopping. Pieces don't need to be in perfect condition or cost a fortune from specialty stores; they can often be found at thrift stores, garage sales and flea markets for a fraction of the cost. However, they might require a little care with a good deal of sandpaper and a fresh coat of paint.
- 2). Find the right furnishings. Traditional wood furnishings, as opposed to glass or metal, are typically seen in vintage cottage decor. Also look for wicker chairs, rich custom-upholstered sofas and settees, and hand-carved wooden detail.
- 3). Consider fabrics and textures. Thick upholstery fabrics in traditional prints are ideal for chairs, sofas, throw blankets and even rugs, as are antique scrolls and damask designs in your desired color scheme. Hand-embroidered accent pieces also make quite a statement in this design.
- 4). Set the tone with curtains. For a warmer, cozier room, heavy curtains set the right tone. For a lighter, more open feel, sheers and thin fabrics on ornate curtain rods or pulled to the side will dress up a window and emphasize natural light.
- 5). Choose your color scheme. A vintage cottage look uses muted, natural tones. The idea is to look light and inviting, as if you could open the windows and let sunlight and fresh air roll right in. Shades of whites, creams, light blues, tans and even muted pinks are ideal color choices for this motif. For a pop of color, antiqued gold and brass painted accents can make quite a statement in frames, hardware and accessories.
- 6). Use accessories to make the room come together. A vintage cottage motif is very budget friendly; you can often find unique accessories to complete your look in bargain bins and even the trash. Accessories that highlight nature, such as birdcages, floral patterns, vases and pressed leaves, work well, but avoid cluttering the room.
- 7). Add architectural interest. More than color and accessories, these elements bring a sense of completion to your cottage look. Popular in this style are chair railing, wainscoting, crown molding, ornate window frames and built-in shelving.
