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Create a Relaxing Cottage
by J. ChristophersonSummertime is cottage time. It's time to leave the busyness of the everyday behind and exchange it for solitude and a relaxed schedule. Whether you're anticipating reading the book you have wanted to read for months, or just taking a long, uninterrupted nap in the middle of the afternoon, it's time to get away and relax!
To get the most out of your time away your summer getaway has to provide the backdrop for comfortable, casual, low maintenance living. It needs to be different from your regular lifestyle. The old saying "A change is as good as a rest" applies here. The key to putting together a summer home is easy maintenance
When decorating a summer home use natural materials as finishes and accessories.
- Lots of wood works well. Wooden walls, moldings, floors and beams add to the casual flair. Woods such as pine and fir are great choices.
- Stone also enhances the space. Stone entries, fireplaces and terraces lend timeless stability to a summer home. They are easily cared for and will stand up to years of use.
- Comfortable upholstered furniture where you can put your feet up is important. Add a few pieces of painted or worn wooden furniture that won't highlight a dent.
- Use texture and color to warm up the space. Warm colors - rich reds, forest greens, deep yellows, will help create a relaxing environment.
The summer cottage is a great place to put collections of memorabilia such as old family photos, popsicle stick lamps or letters and crafts from the kids at summer camp. Rustic is in, just remember to keep it simple. Avoid too many cell phones, computers and T.V.'s that bring in the world you just left behind.
Keep the yard work to a minimum. Consider a split rail fence and an overgrown garden of perennials and grasses. Keep weeding and cleaning to a minimum. You don’t want to spend week-ends up at the cottage mowing the lawn. And don't forget the issue of the insects which may invade your solitude. Consider a screened veranda and windows so that air can flow freely without the persistent hum of mosquitoes.
Have a great summer!