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 table of
contents
on the cover

cottage
STYLE TM

MAKE A
EASY WAYS TO SMALL HOUSE
LIVE LARGE

ADD
COLOR
DISPLAY YOUR
VINTAGE FINDS

& CHARACTER 10 STEPS

TO A DREAMY

14 The Call of the Sea 54 10 Ways to Refresh

EXTERIOR

DECORATING
IDEAS
UNDER
$ 50
24 Local Refresh Your Home’s Exterior
30 Colorful Personality 62 Set in Stone
70 Island Idyll
plus:

38 Summer Sanctuary
PRETTY PORCHES FOR
OUTDOOR LIVING

Photographer:
46 Bright and Breezy 78 Coastal Perch
John Bessler
Stylist: Stacy Kunstel 86 American Classic

departments
4 Editor’s Letter • 6 High Style for Less • 92 Shopping Guide • 95 Resources • 96 Last Look

Cottage Style 1
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cottage
STYLE TM
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 editor’s letter
Big houses have their perks, but the true test
of design savvy often comes when space is at a
premium. That’s when creativity kicks into high
gear and pint-size rooms become prime examples of
how to maximize every inch.
In Rhode Island, interior designer Maura
O’Malley turned a stuck-in-the-past waterfront
cottage into a light and airy retreat that lives much
larger than its 1,450 square feet (“Local Refresh,”
page 24). In addition to some layout tweaks,
O’Malley right-sized the furniture and introduced
a neutral palette—punctuated with blues and
greens—to visually expand each room and take
advantage of the ocean views.
Near another beach—this time in the Hamptons—
real estate expert Adam Widener set his sights on
a forlorn 1,800 -square-foot cottage built in the
1980s that was in desperate need of a 21st-century
makeover. It took a lot of patience (Adam waited a
whole year before sketching design plans), but the
former eyesore is now the darling of its street. He
shares his top 10 tips for sprucing up your home’s
exterior, starting on page 54.
Whether your home is large or small, built new
or decades ago, getting creative with your space is
always worth the effort—and it doesn’t have to cost
a fortune. A few well-chosen accessories, a splash
of color and pattern in just the right places, and
some great artwork can turn a ho-hum room into
something special. Turn to page 6 to see what you
can do with $50 or less.
As the days get longer and spring settles in, we
hope this issue inspires you to throw open your
doors, let in the sunshine, and embrace the colorful,
comforting, and enduring spirit of cottage style.

Samantha Hart, editor

4 Cottage Style
HIGH
STYLE
for less
GETTING THE COTTAGE LOOK
YOU LOVE DOESN’T HAVE
TO COST A FORTUNE. THE
SECRET’S IN THE DETAILS.
PRODUCER MEGAN BOETTCHER

1. BRIGHT SPOT Bring in a bold pop of

cherry red with a desk lamp. Lite Source
Zachary Red and Chrome Gooseneck
Desk Lamp ($50). Lamps Plus; lampsplus
.com 2. VINTAGE DESIGN The small
diamond quilt pattern on this bedspread
instantly imbues a bedroom with old-time
style. Rowan Crinkle Twin Quilt ($25).
Stein Mart; steinmart.com
3. MAKE A SPLASH Add some
personality with a charming character
throw pillow. Wool Hooked Throw Pillow,
Spouting Whale ($25). L.L.Bean; llbean
.com 4. PERFECT REFLECTION Adorn
the walls with a mirror in a distinctive
shape. The golden frame gives an aged
appearance. Opalhouse Decorative Wall
Mirror in Gold ($40). Target; target.com 4

Think of mirrors
as wall art.
1 Interesting shapes
and frame styles
can set the tone for
an entire room.
2

3
 Metal bed frames and
quilted bedspreads
give this bedroom
the vibe of a summer
cottage at the lake.
Nautical throw pillows
and a model sailboat
further the waterfront
feel. A bright blue rug
paired with striped
drapes keeps the look
light and playful.

Cottage Style 7
 Neutrals keep this serene bedroom grounded. The natural
appeal begins with hardwood floors softened by a woven
jute rug. Linen drapes and white bedding create a quiet
foundation that allows bright-patterned throw pillows
and midcentury-inspired furnishings to stand out.

8 Cottage Style
 1. RAISE THE BAR Elevate the look of any bedroom with a button-
tufted headboard in a calming shade of blue. Upholstered Tufted
Rectangular Headboard ($90). Hodedah Imports; hayneedle.com
1
2. GILDED CLASSIC A brushed brass lamp casts a warm glow. Mobley
Table Lamp ($49). Poly & Bark; polyandbark.com 3. PATTERN PLAY
Mix and match a colorful array of pillows for a playful look. (3) Calmulet
Pillow, (6) Frankie Print Pillow, (7) Pippa Print Pillow ($59 each).
Grandin Road; grandinroad.com 4. GO NATURAL Safavieh Natural
Fiber Collection Vintage Area Rug (starting at $21); amazon.com
5. ELEGANT ARRANGEMENT Step up style with linen drapes that
reach to the floor. Liz Claiborne Holland Linen Blackout
Curtain Panel ($56). JCPenney; jcpenney.com

Use neutral elements

to create a clean
foundation upon
which to layer color,
pattern, and texture.
Accessories can be 7
easily changed out
down the road, so
don’t be afraid to 6
have a little fun!

Cottage Style 9
 1. SWITCH HITTER A sleek white finish on an industrial-style light fixture complements both
modern and cottage designs. Westinghouse 1-Light White Interior Pendant ($47). The Home
Depot; homedepot.com 2. CABIN CHARM Buffalo check is always classic and cozy. Threshold
Woven Buffalo Check Throw Pillow ($40). Target; target.com 3. RIGHT ANGLE Plant a
succulent in this short geometric pot for a simple centerpiece. Black and Bronze Geometric
Ceramic Pot ($20). Accent Decor; amazon.com 4. ORIGAMI INSPIRED This chic 1
stoneware vase looks like an expertly folded paper lantern. White Textured Table Vase
($46). AllModern; allmodern.com 5. DIAMOND STUD A matte black finish highlights
this vase’s distinctive design. Diamonds Medium Vase ($35). Scout & Nimble;
scoutandnimble.com 6. FLYING HIGH A felt pennant adds a touch of nostalgia.
Vintage Wyandotte Michigan Felt Flag Pennant ($45). Old New House Rugs +
Modern Living; oldnewhouse.com 7. VINTAGE PRINTS Antique-looking
botanicals and wildlife prints balance more modern elements. Vintage Bird
& Botanical Wall Art Prints, set of 4 ($20). IDIOPIX; amazon.com

Unite modern and vintage elements

by keeping the color scheme simple.
For interest, introduce a couple of
design pieces that break the rules
and command attention. 4

6
7

10 Cottage Style
Blending modern and vintage
finds creates an eclectic,
layered look. A consistent color
scheme—in this case, black,
white, and green—helps bridge
the gap between old and new.
 This handsome living
room puts the emphasis
on texture. Nubby
fabrics, woven baskets, a
hammered coffee table,
and ceramic accent
pieces give the space
a handcrafted feel.
 1

Repeat subtle
triangular patterns
on three or four
items in the room to
establish a look
that’s coordinated,
but not matchy-
matchy.

1. PRACTICALLY SPEAKING Storage is stylish and functional with this

basket made of natural handwoven cattail and paper fibers. Decorative
Flame Stitch 2 Piece Wicker Basket Set ($25). Joss & Main; jossandmain
.com 2. GLOBAL INFLUENCE Find inspiration abroad with a bold-
patterned throw pillow. Lassiter Mudcloth Geometric Outdoor Throw
Pillow ($34). Wayfair; wayfair.com 3. NATURAL CONNECTION Place
plants (real or faux) in these footed ceramic planters for a stylish nod to
nature. Alma Ceramic Planters, set of 2 ($49). Grandin Road; grandinroad
.com 4. ART CLASS This handwoven fringed rug imparts a tribal art feel to
any room. 2x3 Arizona Rug ($49); rugs.com 5. MADE BY HAND Bring 5
authenticity to a space with a handcrafted ceramic vase. Yellow Glazed
Ceramic Vases with Handles ($29–$39). Rustic Reach; rusticreach.com

Cottage Style 13
Jaqui Lividini
describes her family’s
beach house in one
word: “peaceful.” The
2,000-square-foot
house is built at the
edge of a peninsula,
making it feel a bit
like a houseboat.

14 Cottage Style
the call of
THE SEA
Over time, one couple collected
antique treasures with a future
beach house in mind. They found
the perfect home for them on an
irresistible Connecticut peninsula.
WRITER AND FIELD EDITOR PAIGE PORTER FISCHER
PHOTOGRAPHER JOHN BESSLER
STYLIST STACY KUNSTEL
 Left : Jaqui and partner
John Speredakos
opened this space for
a better flow, but that
left them without a
wall to back a full-size
sofa. So Jaqui had a
sectional made and
upholstered in classic
ticking, and she tossed
on pillows covered in
vintage fabrics she’d
been collecting for
years. The antique
clockface is a Paris flea
market find. Opposite:
The chest in the
entryway came with
the house—and was
original to it—so the
couple accepted it as a
sort of housewarming
gift and painted it
white. Below: Jaqui
delights in her furry
friend, Noodles.

It was never
a question of if,
but when. That’s how Jaqui Lividini
describes her desire to buy and restore a beach
house that could be a weekend oasis from the hustle
of New York City, where she and her partner, John
Speredakos, live with their daughter, Calliope, 14.
When the quest began in earnest, the couple searched
for two years, bidding on—and losing—seven
houses before they first laid eyes on a 1901 cottage
in Connecticut that demanded an immediate double
take. “We were drawn to the home’s relationship to
its setting—the way it perched on the rocks, the way
the water essentially surrounded it,” John says. “The
smell of that brine was intoxicating.”
The stunning site on a slender peninsula—Haycock
Point on the Long Island Sound—seemed plucked
from the pages of a storybook. Despite the fact that the
two hadn’t set foot inside the home, Jaqui was already

16 Cottage Style
 Above left: In the breakfast nook,
Jaqui paired a dining table from her
New York apartment with chairs she
found in France. “That was before
all the luggage regulations, and I
actually brought them home with
me on the plane checked into two
wardrobe boxes,” she says. Above right:
A collection of French enamelware
infuses the breakfast nook with
color. Right: Hydrangeas set a festive
summer scene on the breakfast table.

18 Cottage Style

writing the house’s next chapter. “We told our real
estate agent that if this house ever went on the market,
we’d buy it,” she says. “One month later, we got a call
that it was for sale, and we made an offer immediately.
The whole thing happened in less than 24 hours.”
That was in 2007 and was the only part of the
process that went quickly. After they closed on the
house, they saw what a wreck the inside of the home
was. “It needed everything—every single little thing,”
Jaqui says. “The house was choppy, with way too
many rooms, and the first floor had been renovated
and added onto in the early ’70s, which I think is the
worst decorating decade ever.” The couple needed to
reconfigure the spaces and remove the unfortunate
flaws to restore the house to its century-old charm—
but with their fresh stamp.
“I subscribe to the belief that charm is the result
of imperfections accrued over time,” John says. “So
the challenge becomes preserving the charm while
Left: Open shelves keep
the small kitchen from
feeling confined. An
antiques shop display
table now serves as an
island; it was brought to
counter height by adding
2 inches to the bottom
of the legs, along with
another round shelf. All
the original wood floors
on the main level were
painted a pale seafoam
for a light and fresh
look that references
the home’s setting.
incorporating more contemporary design elements.
If you get the balance right, it not only looks good but
feels right, which is the most gratifying part.”
Before renovations could begin, more obstacles
arose. During their yearlong architectural planning
process, Hurricane Irene hit the coast, flooding the
house and setting the couple back a year as they
cleaned up and filed insurance claims. “We finally got
all ready to start the project again when Hurricane
Sandy arrived, and we had yet another devastating
flood,” Jaqui says. At this point, the two were losing
steam and running out of money. The city then notified
the couple that flood zoning changes were coming, and
they’d be required to lift the house before they could
renovate it. “All the plans we’d paid for were useless,
and we had to go back to the drawing board,” she says.
The 9-foot “lift” was a costly and time-consuming
project, taking another year to complete. “We thought
of throwing in the towel on a daily basis, but we were
Cottage Style 19
This photo: Jaqui employs kitchen chairs for her outdoor space, along
with a favorite table from the original Martha Stewart catalog. “Standing
on the porch at night is a transformative experience,” John says. “The
wind is almost always blowing, the waves splash white over the rocks,
and the stars and lights from Long Island flicker on the horizon.”
Clockwise from top left: The best days
begin on the wraparound porch,
where tasty beverages go great
with taking in the ocean views.
Vintage furnishings and whimsical
wallpaper form a delightful pair in
daughter Calliope’s bedroom. Jaqui
designed a custom banquette to
make the most of this octagonal
space just off the entryway.
There’s always room for fresh
flowers on the master bedroom’s
nightstand. Jaqui and John spent
years gathering seaside-inspired
treasures, and they enjoy finding
creative ways to display them. The
small downstairs master bedroom
is big on charm; “I bought the
quilt in Charleston, and I love
how primitive it is,” Jaqui says.

Cottage Style 21
“WHEN YOU’RE
IN THE HOUSE,
YOU CANNOT
SEE GROUND.
YOU SEE ONLY
WATER ON
THREE SIDES,
SO IT TRULY
FEELS LIKE
LIVING ON
A BOAT.”
—homeowner Jaqui Lividini
 Opposite: The upper level formerly held five
bedrooms, so Jaqui and John reconfigured
them into larger spaces. The ceiling in this guest
room was opened to the attic. “We often sleep
up here because it has the most magical light—
and billion-dollar views,” Jaqui says. Below: The
couple saw the room’s antique iron bed on a trip
to Litchfield County in the 1990s and fell in love
with it, but the bed was too small for their master
bedroom. Years later, they happened upon the
same store and found the bed still there, propped
against a wall. “John bought it for me for this
house,” Jaqui says. “It was always meant to be
here.” Right: This breezy bath, dressed in subway
tile, took the place of a small bedroom upstairs.

well aware of the uniqueness of the house and its
location, so it never seemed not worth the effort,”
John says. In the end, the cumbersome process and
their perseverance were redeemed when the couple
realized they had even better water views than before.
Over the next few years, Jaqui patiently oversaw
the revival of the little beach house. Second-floor
ceilings were lifted, support beams were added,
and walls were removed, giving the spaces “room to
breathe.” They took the 2,000-square-foot cottage
from five small bedrooms to three, salvaging as much
beaded board as they could from the original walls to
create a consistent backdrop for the new spaces.
Jaqui enlisted the help of a friend, designer Charles
Riley, to bring the cottage back to life. They painted
almost every surface white, except the floors of the main
level, which wear a pale seafoam. Jaqui meticulously
searched for everything authentic, including interior
French doors, frosted glass, wooden switchplates, and
mother-of-pearl push-button light switches. “We even
deliberately nicked and scratched up the new floors we
put down so they would feel original,” she says. “It’s the
little details that are so important.”
Once the actual structure took shape, Jaqui began
unpacking all the treasures she and John had been
gathering over time. “We’d collected things for a
future beach house for so many years, hitting up
antiques stores and flea markets from Maine down
to Charleston, South Carolina,” she says. “We finally
got to take them out of storage and dust them all off.
Ten years after we closed on this house, all the pieces
finally came together under one roof. And I have to
say, the outcome was a very happy ending.”
For resources, see page 95.

Cottage Style 23
 local
refresh A clean white
backdrop and
careful use of
color turn a tired
Rhode Island
beach cottage
into an airy
escape.
WRITER AND FIELD EDITOR
MARNI ELYSE KATZ
PHOTOGRAPHER KELLER + KELLER
STYLIST KARIN LIDBECK-BRENT

24 Cottage Style
 Opposite: The colors of
nature converge in the
guest room, where a
painted dresser stands
out against white shiplap
walls. Left: To maximize
the living area’s full space,
interior designer Maura
O’Malley and architect Anne
Snelling-Lee closed off an
entry door that opened into
the room. A seascape by
painter Craig Mooney from
Boston gallery Jules Place
sits on the fireplace mantel.
Below: O’Malley decided
against statement lighting
in favor of utilitarian
fixtures that blend with the
walls and ceiling, ensuring
the water view as the focal
point. The sailboat image
is by local photographer
Peter Goldberg.

It was the view

that sold interior
designer Maura O’Malley’s clients on this petite
Rhode Island beach cottage. Also, at 1,450 square feet,
the house seemed manageable, both to transform and
maintain. It certainly was not the ’70s-era knotty pine
paneling, choked up windows, or Styrofoam ceiling
panels that drew them in. “Homes here have passed
through generations,” O’Malley says. “People don’t
think about changing them.”
Lured to the area by its pastoral landscape, quiet
beaches, and low-key atmosphere that ensured few
distractions from family time, the homeowners
wanted a place where they could gather to enjoy the
beach, light up the grill, and entertain friends over
fresh oysters and cocktails.
They envisioned an all-white haven akin to a Santa
Monica beach house that still felt true to its Yankee roots.
“It needed to fit in with the neighbors,” O’Malley says.
She and architect Anne Snelling-Lee reworked
the layout to simplify the flow, maximize the living
space, and orient the rooms to that glorious ocean.
“It was a very introverted house,” Snelling-Lee says.
“You’re on the water, but you didn’t actually see
the water.” By raising ceiling beams, then moving,
adding, and enlarging doors, windows, and skylights,
Snelling-Lee gave the view center stage. “There’s

Cottage Style 25
 Left: O’Malley and Snelling-Lee
reconfigured the back portion
of the kitchen to accommodate
the new wet bar and added a
skylight. The peninsula extends
to create more counter space
and a casual spot for snacking.
Below: The guest room’s black
spindle chair, which can be
pulled into the dining room
for large dinners, has a New
England sensibility. Oil-
rubbed bronze hooks hold
towels, totes, and other beach
essentials. Opposite: A simple
settee with faded striped
linen upholstery and nailhead
trim anchors a cozy corner
in the master bedroom. The
homeowners purchased the
artwork at a little gallery in
St. John, one of the Virgin
Islands, on their first trip there
over 20 years ago. “It’s very
special to them,” O’Malley
says. “And it’s the impetus
for the splashes of blue.”

an immediate physical and visual connection to the

outdoors now,” she says.
To reinforce the loftlike facelift and ensure a sense
of down-home coziness, O’Malley hit every surface
with warm white paint and stained the wood floors
medium brown. “It feels like it grew three times in
size,” she says. Perfectly proportioned, laid-back
furnishings were also key. “It’s not a huge house, so
each piece had to be perfectly scaled,” O’Malley says. A
big, comfy couch was a top priority for the owners, who
report that ten people can hang out with ease.
The kitchen cabinets, painted periwinkle blue,
stretch into the living area, connecting the spaces
and encouraging together time. Local artwork, batik
throw pillows, and sea-glasslike accessories provide
additional color pops. “Blues and greens zip through the
house, making it cohesive and playful,” O’Malley says.
Each bedroom boasts a colorful dresser, and wood
accents lend rustic warmth. O’Malley incorporated
finds that lend a bit of age, such as the reclaimed wood
vanities in the bathrooms. “They look like they could
have been found in a grandparent’s attic,” she says.
The result is an effortless beach house where everyone
can relax. “It’s crisp and clean,” O’Malley says, “but we
didn’t alter its cottage identity.”
For resources, see page 95.
 “BLUES AND GREENS ZIP
THROUGH THE HOUSE, MAKING IT
COHESIVE AND PLAYFUL.”
Ñinterior designer Maura OÕMalley

Cottage Style 27
Original shiplap in the
guest bedroom, which
the team painted white,
influenced the decision
to install similar paneling
throughout the house.
For a splash of yellow,
O’Malley hung her
sister Molly O’Malley’s
photo of lobster pots,
framed at Jameson
& Thompson Picture
Framers in Jamaica
Plain, Massachusetts.
GETTING
COLOR
JUST RIGHT
Neutral walls are the perfect
backdrop for colorful artwork,
furnishings, and accessories.
HereÕs how to master the mix.
STICK WITH A PLAN: A cohesive
color palette creates harmony
among rooms and helps pull a
style together. In this cottage,
blues and greens carry through
from room to room, energizing
the neutral scheme.
INTRODUCE TEXTURE: Texture
adds another layer of interest and
subtle pattern without the need
for more color. Stone, wood, and
fabrics such as linen and burlap
are classic cottage companions.
STAY COOL (OR WARM): Cool
colors like blue, purple, and
green calm a room and tend to
recede. Warm colors like red,
yellow, and orange are active
and energetic. They are well-
suited to social spaces. Keep in
mind that there are warm and
cool versions within every color
family, especially with hybrids
like purple and green.

Above: The homeowner adores

the little washed-blue dresser
that doubles as a nightstand in
the master bedroom. The wood
spindle lamp is a style that could
easily have been found here
in decades past. Left: O’Malley
likens the reclaimed wood vanity,
purchased from Etsy vendor
FoxDenBoutique, to a vintage
piece, but its sharp-edged vessel
sink makes it fresh and modern.
Right: Radiant heat flooring and a
roomy freestanding tub turn the
master bath into a luxe escape.
O’Malley added an outdoor shower
that is accessible from both the
master bathroom and the yard.

Cottage Style 29
 COLORFUL
PERSONALITY
Forget playing it
safe—the unabashed
approach to color
in this New England
guesthouse makes it
everyone’s favorite
place to be.
WRITER KIMBER MITCHELL
PHOTOGRAPHER KELLER & KELLER
FIELD EDITOR KARIN LIDBECK-BRENT

30 Cottage Style
This photo: A trio of pendant lights delivers the
bold statement the homeowner envisioned in the
dining room. Each is filled with hundreds of glass
globes that resemble the glass floats that area
fishermen once used to keep their nets afloat.
Reinforcing the sea-fresh theme is the table’s
ocean-blue variegated concrete top and rope-
wrapped bases. Opposite: Succulents are the
perfect accessory for a laid-back beach house.
 As summer arrives
on Massachusetts’ scenic
Buzzards Bay, this inviting guesthouse
nestled in a quaint village along the shore becomes the
life of the party with backyard barbecues, pool parties,
and evening cocktails galore. “The homeowner loves to
entertain, and when she has a party, she goes all out,” says
architect Thomas H. Egan III, who let the vintage charm
of the neighboring 19th-century homes guide the 2015
structure’s Shingle-style exterior. “The very first party she
had here was for one of her kids’ birthdays, where she set
up a fun candy bar with tall glass cylinders that were color-
coordinated to match the hues of the house.”
So it came as no surprise to Egan and his colleague, interior
designer Josh Linder, that she wanted to further embrace the
interior with the same gusto. Her goal: a bright and beachy
hub for multiple generations of her family. Never one to shy
away from color, she developed an unabashed love of bold
hues growing up and watching her mother bring rooms to
life as an interior designer. “She wanted a riot of color and
pattern, so we sifted through literally hundreds of fabrics
for this project,” says Linder, who orchestrated a vibrant
stage for summer living with the homeowner’s favorite color,
turquoise. In supporting roles are refreshing shades of apple
green and marine blue that play on the home’s proximity
to the bay, a popular destination for fishing, boating, and
soaking up the sun on the beach.
The sea-fresh palette also dazzles in patterns like
spirited stripes and lighthearted geometrics, which make
repeat performances throughout the home to create a sense
of continuity. The stripes energize the living room sofa and
dining room banquette benches; the geometrics brighten

Right: Windows that hug the ceiling bathe the kitchen in natural
light while lending privacy. To keep the light, airy ambience,
the design team ditched upper cabinets that typically flank a
range hood for a dramatic chevron-patterned wallpaper that
stays clean, thanks to clever thinking. “We covered it with glass
you can easily wipe down,” architect Thomas Egan says.

32 Cottage Style
Cottage Style 33
This photo: “Wet bars are a
great place to do something
playful and fun,” says interior
designer Josh Linder, who
injected a touch of whimsy
with hemp-rope handles
and a shiplap backdrop. The
teak countertop, a wood
often used on ships because
of its waterproof nature,
makes cleanup a breeze.
accents including pillows and rugs. Both patterns speak to
the homeowner’s bubbly personality. “She’s an exuberant
hostess who wants to make all her guests feel at home,
and she has an infectious energy that you’re immediately
struck by when you step inside,” Linder says of the entry
that extends a happy hello with its crisp white shiplap and
vivacious chevron-patterned wallpaper. “We carried it up
to the ceiling to create a colorful cap for the room.”
Even architectural details take a playful turn. “We took
traditional New England cottage details like the shiplap
walls but pumped up the volume on everything,” Egan says.
“For example, the walls in the kitchen, staircase, and wet bar
are painted that bright blue she loves so much.” Overhead,
the scene is just as lively, thanks to a breezy blue-green
grass-cloth wallpaper that accents the coffered ceiling. The

Top: The living room’s fieldstone fireplace is a nod to the region’s

19th-century farms, which were traditionally surrounded by
fieldstone walls. Outdoor fabrics, which cover key furnishings
like the striped sofa, ensure this popular hangout is as practical
as it is pretty. “Everything we chose was very livable so that
anyone can just plop down and make themselves at home, and
the homeowner doesn’t have to worry about it,” Linder says.
Left: Decked out in the same punchy palette, the striped jute
rug and chevron wallpaper work in tandem to exude a cheerful
welcome when guests walk in the door. Baskets in the built-in
bookshelf casually corral beach towels, hats, and sunscreen.

Cottage Style 35
 first attempt to dress it up with a coat of paint fell flat, but the
wallpaper provided the missing element—texture.
Despite the daring duet between color and pattern, the
two never strike a chaotic chord. Linder carefully tempered
the colorful collage with natural materials like sisal and jute
rugs that give the eye a place to rest. “We also grounded the
interior by incorporating some antique pieces,” he says. “It
was important to the homeowner that we pull in pieces from
her mother’s estate, like the leather club chair and demilune
table in the living area.” Likewise, the warm honey tone of
the wide-plank hickory floors imparts a healthy dose of old-
world charm that softens the surrounding sea of color.
It all makes for a blissful oasis where guests aren’t the
only ones who can’t wait to stay there. “A few weeks after
we completed the project, we received an email from the
homeowner saying that she was furious with us,” Egan says
with a smile. “She said we did such a good job that no one
wants to go to the main house now!”
For resources, see page 95.

Top left: A lofty ceiling in the master bedroom called for a

statuesque bed, and the spool four-poster—another New
England tradition—was a fitting choice. Strung with turquoise
beads, the spherical chandelier echoes the predominant hue
used throughout the house while infusing softness among the
room’s many angles. Top right: Selecting a mirror for the master
bath vanity was a challenge because all the rooms on the
second floor are tucked under eaves for a cozy, cottage vibe.
But Linder came to the rescue with the perfect solution—an
abstract mirror framed by an irregular coral design. “It fills the
space perfectly without detracting from the surroundings,” he
says. Right: A daybed tucks into a cozy niche in the bunk room.

36 Cottage Style
This photo: The bunk room is the homeowner’s
favorite feature of the house because she
wanted a camplike retreat where all her
nieces and nephews and their friends could
sleep in one space. It’s also ideal for families.
“The upper bunk’s twin bed is perfect for
the kids, while the parents can easily sleep
in the lower double bed,” Egan says.
 The wraparound porch
and steps evolved from
a collaborative meeting
with the design team and
the homeowners, who
didn’t want a standard
railing. Guests can enter
or exit via the steps from
any place on the porch.

38 Cottage Style
summer
SANCTUARY
Big enough for family and
friends but small enough to feel
cozy and comfy, this renovated
cottage is the ultimate escape.
WRITER MARIE McCARTAN PHOTOGRAPHER STACY ZARIN GOLDBERG
FIELD EDITOR ANDREA CAUGHEY STYLIST MIKE GRADY
 This photo: The sisal rug in the entry was custom-made by
local artists. “We wanted something that was welcoming
but casual,” interior designer Nancy Harper says. The wood
bench—a piece the homeowners had in their D.C. home—
provides a drop zone for bags and shoes. Hooks on the
wall accommodate jackets, hats, and totes. The wood floor,
original to the house, was painted white for a beachy twist.
 Left : White dining
chairs—a fresh
adaptation of Chinese
Chippendale style—
surround a trestle
table with a weathered
finish. Seldom-used
items can be stashed
under the bench. A
new porcelain tile
floor and sliding doors
update the space.
The clear globes of
the whimsical bubble
chandelier don’t
obstruct the view.
Below: The homeowner
painted the demilune
table in the entryway
coral for a welcoming
splash of color.

m
Maryland’s Gibson Island is the ideal spot for
winding down, spending time outdoors, and
enjoying nature’s many gifts. Herons, osprey, and
bald eagles call this place home. It’s a mere hour
drive from the hubbub of Washington, D.C., but for
a busy couple and their 7-year-old daughter, it feels
worlds away. The family bought this circa 1990
cottage four years ago as a summer retreat. Each
May, they pack their bags and drive to the island
where they stay until September, going back to the
city only when necessary for work.
The setting is idyllic—a private gated community
on the Chesapeake Bay and Magothy River. One-
third of the 1,000 acres is developed; the rest is
dedicated to wetlands and a bird sanctuary. But the
original cottage was far from ideal. Dark rooms, a
too-small deck, and a ’90s-era kitchen detracted
from the home’s four bedrooms, four bathrooms,
and appealing post-and-beam construction.
Eager to start enjoying island life, the family
moved in to the 2,400-square-foot cottage and
quickly had all the walls and floors painted white.
Then a team, including architect James Rill and

Cottage Style 41
 interior designer Nancy Harper, began work on the
renovation. The goal was to create a home with casual,
simple elegance. “We wanted to add contemporary,
sleek details and make the home inviting,” Rill says.
“The word ‘genuine’ comes to mind,” Harper says.
“There’s something about cottage style that signals
people actually live in the rooms.”
The homeowners’ list of “must-haves” was short:
a Dutch door, a hanging swing bed, and a porch that
could be used as an outdoor family room. The couple
let the design pros collaborate on how to include
multiple sitting areas, a well-appointed kitchen, and
splashes of color for a relaxed coastal vibe. “Our goal
was to create a refuge from D.C. life,” Harper says.
A spacious wraparound porch brings a touch of
the South to this Northeastern getaway. It includes a

Above: Multiple French and sliding doors connect the living

room with the wraparound porch for easy entertaining.
Pale blue paint on the ceiling planks—a traditional
porch scheme—highlights the home’s indoor-outdoor
connections. Left: Spoonbills on Blue, an original painting
by artist Joseph Bradley, hangs above the bar cart and
references Gibson Island’s status as a bird sanctuary.

42 Cottage Style
 This photo: A mix of
modern and cottage
elements gives the
kitchen character. A
pullout section of the
island functions as
bonus prep space when
needed. A Dutch door
leading to the backyard
adds a nostalgic touch.

Cottage Style 43
 Opposite : Tucked in the
gable, the daughter’s
room puts the space under
the eaves to its best use,
including a built-in bench
atop open storage. The
coral accent colors used
throughout the house
repeat here in the bed
frames and throws. Left:
To make the ceiling feel
taller, drapes hang as close
to the ceiling as possible
in the master bedroom.
Wall-mount bedside
lamps free up space on
small nightstands.

swing, a seating area, and a dining area for casual

entertaining. “Porches have the ability to make
a house feel larger,” Harper says. Trim painted a
soft aqua frames French doors that open to the
living room. The coveted Dutch door appears in the
kitchen, where pale blue Shaker-style cabinetry
and a shiplap-clad ceiling establish the simple
cottage look the homeowners wanted.
In the years since the remodel, the home has
hosted a revolving roster of guests. It’s a place
where time seems to slow, and family and friends
can decompress from the stress of city life. “It’s
a barefoot kind of house,” Rill says—no to-do
lists, no suits, and no need to watch the clock,
at least until September.
For resources, see page 95.

Right: A contemporary furniture-style vanity provides

ample storage in the master bath. Luxurious details
include wall-mount brushed-nickel faucets, hardware
with a finish that looks hand-rubbed, a custom mirror
with a black powder-coated frame, and a brass and
black light fixture with four globes. Marble floor tile
and a glass-panel shower enclosure complete the look.

Cottage Style 45
 BRIGHT
and breezy
A designer with a knack for
color channels her love for the
seaside into a cozy cottage that
nods to her New England roots.
WRITER HEIDI TYLINE KING PHOTOGRAPHER TRACEY RAPISARDI
PRODUCERS TRACEY RAPISARDI AND MANDI RAPISARDI

46 Cottage Style
Opposite: Collections of
seashells feel right at home in
designer Tracey Rapisardi’s
Sarasota, Florida, cottage.
This photo: The entry features
double-duty pieces like the
bench Tracey designed with
storage bins underneath
and the whitewashed shelf
with “beach” hooks.
 Designer Tracey Rapisardi
and her husband, Richie, had
been on the lookout for a house near the sea in Sarasota,
Florida, for some time when a nondescript cottage hit the market. “It had no
charm or architectural aesthetic to speak of, but we saw it as a blank canvas,
the perfect backdrop for the coastal, laid-back lifestyle we envisioned,”
Tracey says.
The couple snapped up the cottage, then immediately set to work
reinvigorating its dated interiors with warmth and comfortable charm.
Tracey covered walls with beaded board and shiplap, replaced floors with
tropics-friendly wood and tile, and added custom windows and one-of-a-
kind boat doors she discovered at a local salvage boatyard.
Having moved south from New England, Tracey borrowed the best of
Northeastern architecture to give their new cottage personality. She carved
out room for a banquette with built-in storage in the kitchen, added a window
that overlooks the entry, and knocked out attic space to make way for high,
trussed ceilings. She was determined to work within the constraints of the
cottage’s traditional floor plan—a move that allowed her to mix up flooring

48 Cottage Style
and wall materials from room to room. “These features are all very New
England,” Tracey says. “Plus, smaller rooms are cozy, and they give you
the chance to change the texture and feel from room to room. The key to
designing for this type of layout is cohesiveness—making sure that all the
rooms work together from a design standpoint.”
Throughout the project, Tracey took care to also include Southern-style,
tropical details such as transom windows, high ceilings, shiplap, and
screen doors with slap hinges—the same kind her children heard growing
up in a seaside town when doors opened and closed.

Opposite left: Open shelving tricks the eye into thinking the kitchen is larger than it
actually is. Opposite right: Bottled water and soda tuck into the drawers underneath
the banquette for convenient and uncluttered storage. Above: The kitchen is smart
and efficient. “I love the look and functionality of a small kitchen,” Tracey says.
“For a cook, everything is at your fingertips.” Right: Limiting decor to one color
palette—but not one color—is a small but impactful design trick.

Cottage Style 49
 “SMALLER ROOMS ARE COZY, AND THEY
GIVE YOU THE CHANCE TO CHANGE THE
FEEL FROM ROOM TO ROOM.”
—homeowner and designer Tracey Rapisardi

The kicker is color—or more specifically, “the colors that I see when
I’m looking at the seaside,” Tracey says. Using shades of white on walls,
cabinetry, and floors creates a backdrop for the turquoise, chartreuse,
and mint green color palette. Pulling variations of these colors from
room to room makes the look work. “You don’t have to use the same color
in every room,” she says. “That just makes it look flat.”
A strict editor, Tracey mixed some of her existing vintage furniture and
accessories with fabrics in different hues. When she couldn’t find the right
piece to round out a room, she designed—and had Richie build—a custom
piece, such as the plate rack with vintage shutters, which is available
through their daughter Mandi’s Sarasota boutique, Summer + Company.
Tracey has flipped houses after completing remodeling projects that
were not commissioned by clients, but this cottage became a keeper. “People
walk in and say, ‘Aah ….’ It feels warm and colorful, and at the same time
very calm and serene,” she says. “But when I walk in, it feels like home.”
For resources, see page 95.

50 Cottage Style
 Opposite left: Slipcovered
furnishings and vintage
accessories give the
living room a homey feel.
Opposite right: The laundry
is conveniently located in
the pool house, making it
easy to catch wet towels
and sandy beach bags
upon entry. Opposite bottom:
A farmhouse-style laundry
sink and custom vanity
spruce up the pool bath.
This photo: Refreshed with
seafoam green paint, old
shutters form a delightful
frame for Tracey’s
collection of dishware.
Opposite: Custom print,
striped, and solid
fabrics from Summer +
Company add interest
against a background
of white. Above left:
Tracey repurposed a
broken chest of drawers
by removing a row of
drawers and adding
screen doors. Above right:
Vintage rattan gets a
facelift with a lightly
distressed paint finish.
Left: Custom-designed
fabric headboards
continue the color and
pattern play while keeping
the look soft and cozy.

Cottage Style 53
 1
LOOK TO
THE CLASSICS
Though Adam Widener’s house is the epitome
of historical Hamptons style, the 1,800-square-
foot home was actually built in the 1980s. Rather
than completely scrap the ho-hum facade, he
simply refreshed it with classic details. Out went
the vinyl siding and asphalt roof; in came cedar
shake siding and shingles. This expanded back
porch fosters indoor-outdoor connections.
10
Ways to Refresh
Exterior
YOUR HOME’S

Using his own Hamptons

cottage as an example,
real estate expert Adam
Widener shares his top 10
tips for boosting character
from the outside in.
WRITER CAROLINE MC KENZIE
PHOTOGRAPHER TRIA GIOVAN
FIELD EDITOR ANNA MOLVIK

Cottage Style 55
 2
SLEEP
ON IT
Adam owned the home
for approximately
12 months before he
took so much as a pencil
to paper on the design
plans. “Spending time
here really opened
my eyes to how I used
the house and what it
needed to be,” he says.
Over the course of that
first year, he discovered
he spent most of his
time outdoors, and the
majority of that time
was in the backyard.
“Figuring out those
tendencies guided me on
where and how to focus
my efforts,” he says.

3
FORGO THE
MATCHING SET
Adam also took his time when it came to
furnishing the new back porch. “I started
with nothing out there,” he recalls. “It came
together over many months of shopping
outdoor furniture boutiques and friends’
garage sales.” Focusing on weather-resistant
materials, he ultimately curated a stylish mix
of wicker, teak, metal, and ceramic. The result
is a relaxed space that feels far more layered
than if he’d furnished it in one fell swoop.

4
EMBRACE
POTTED PLANTS
Some of Adam’s best landscaping required
him to lift nary a shovel. Throughout the
property, a hodgepodge of planters adds
cottage style on a dime. “Using a mix
instead of perfect mates ups the charm,”
he says. On the back porch, for example,
potted hydrangeas anchor an arrangement
of tabletop blooms that creates a vibrant
welcome when set against the white siding.

56 Cottage Style
 5
MAKE THE INSIDE AND
OUTSIDE PLAY NICE
The existing covered deck was weathered and cramped, but that was
only half the problem. Its roofline also prevented precious natural light
from reaching the back of the house. As a remedy, Adam designed
a spacious pergola atop the back porch; it provides some coverage
from the elements and lets rear-facing rooms lap up the sunshine.
 6
PLANT AHEAD
When Adam purchased the home, the backyard was
completely overgrown. In addition to tall grass (and plenty
of weeds) there was a mismatch of landscaping and a
waning koi pond. Eager to cultivate a crisp garden aesthetic,
he cleared out the verdant clutter for a fresh start. The
new look is simple and organic with a monochromatic
green scheme that infuses texture and height through
evergreens such as privet and boxwoods. He also planned
with the endgame in mind. “The arborvitae along the side
of the house were only 5 feet tall when I planted them,”
he says. “Now they’re over 25 feet! Waiting a few years
was worth it for that sort of natural privacy screening.”
 7
KEEP THE LOOK CONSISTENT
With the exterior of the house now fully rooted in the Hamptons aesthetic,
Adam wanted the 12×20-foot saltwater plunge pool to follow suit. He
eschewed bright blue, Caribbean-inspired water in favor of a midnight blue
shade. “I started by selecting the bluestone pool coping,” he says. “It’s a pale-
gray-meets-purple-meets-blue shade. The dark blue water is a natural fit.”

Cottage Style 59
 8
PLAY UP
CURB APPEAL
A splash of seaside blue (Benjamin
Moore Manor Blue) dresses up the
front door and shutters—complete
with vintage-inspired shutter dogs—
in casual coastal style. A simple
lantern-style sconce in weathered
zinc casts a warm glow at night.
 9
OPT FOR A
FOREVER
“EVEN JUST CENTERPIECE
A FEW
Adam favors centerpieces with staying
power over fresh florals, lovely as
they may be. Potted in a concrete

STRATEGIC trough, this aloe vera and agave

mix provides virtually maintenance-

VINTAGE
free decor for the outdoor dining
table. With no face-obscuring
arrangement to talk over, the low-

ELEMENTS slung vessel also allows lingering

conversations at alfresco meals.

WILL TAKE THE

EDGE OFF A
NEW SPACE.”
Ñhomeowner Adam Widener

10
LET THERE BE
(VINTAGE)
LIGHT
Vintage pieces help the
circa 1980s home feel far more
historical than its age would
suggest. Case in point: Old
nautical-style lights, purchased
on a trek to Massachusetts’
famed Brimfield Antique Show,
add shipshape charm to the
outdoor living space. “Even
just a few strategic vintage
elements will take the edge off
a new space,” Adam says.
For resources, see page 95.

Cottage Style 61
 SET IN
stone An 1850s Maryland stone home
gets a 21st-century makeover while
retaining plenty of farmhouse charm.
WRITER DEBRA ENGLE PHOTOGRAPHER HELEN NORMAN FIELD EDITOR JANNA LUFKIN

h
Helen Norman always wanted to live in a stone house. Growing
up in a 1700s home surrounded by farm country, she had
long dreamed of finding her own historical place set on a few
rural acres—ideally, it would be a neat little home with a
manageable property.
That was before 130 acres in Maryland became available next
to her brother’s farm. Helen, a photographer, and her husband,
Mark Elmore, loved the beauty of the land, complete with the
requisite stone house and its own small village of outbuildings.
But there was one problem—the house was falling down.
Still in its original floor plan, the 1850s house had no kitchen
and no real bathroom—not the best scenario for a couple with a
toddler and another baby on the way. But Helen and Mark bought
it anyway, envisioning what it could be rather than what it was.
The original 1,100-square-foot house came with some good
news, including pine floors that sprang to life when refinished and
windows recessed in curved plaster, a feature Helen has never
seen elsewhere. After making the home livable, the couple decided
to add on, enlarging the tiny space for their two growing boys.
By the time they started the addition, they’d bought 120 tons
of fieldstone from a local resident to use for the foundation. An Opposite: Detailed millwork matches the
exact match to the house, it creates a seamless transition from home’s original trim. Homeowner Helen
old to new. “The original house is small,” Helen says, “but we Norman stripped and waxed the deep
pine windowsills, which provide natural
wanted it to be a hero, with the addition telescoping out from it.” display space for her topiaries. Above: Sited
More than doubling the size of the house meant making on a hillside, the stone house came with
strategic decisions. The couple removed staircases from the outbuildings, including a barn and smokehouse.
living room, replacing them with built-in shelves and cabinets
neighboring the fireplace. They also preserved original stone
walls, which lend rich texture and deep warmth to the master
bedroom, garden room, and seating area off the kitchen.

Cottage Style 63
 Clockwise from top left: An awkward
space where a staircase used to
be becomes a tucked-in desk with
storage underneath. The living room
offers comfy respite with slipcovered
furniture and a needlepoint rug
bound in velvet. Helen hired an
upholsterer to cover an heirloom
sofa in the master bedroom in heavy
drop cloth fabric; a hoop needle
and heavy thread were used to sew
the fabric directly over the previous
upholstery. White peonies plucked
from the yard herald springtime. The
current dining room served as the
home’s original kitchen and includes
a fireplace and built-ins painted
French blue. Cushions on an old iron
daybed and painted wrought-iron
chairs create a cozy sitting area on
the front porch; curtains define the
space and shade the morning sun.

64 Cottage Style
This photo: A Meg Page
original painting hangs
above a favorite jelly
cupboard and a
collection of Helen’s
treasured pottery,
including pour bowls
and antique crocks.
 Grain sacks, cotton duck fabric, and heavy drop cloths cover pillows
and chairs, protecting furniture—especially from the couple’s dog,
Grizzly—and keeping the overall feeling of the house casual. “My total
fabric cost for the whole house was probably $125,” Helen says. “I’d rather
buy a great painting than spend a lot of money on upholstery fabric.”
Helen carries that practical attitude into her garden room, a favorite
spot where she can fulfill her love of growing things year-round. The
results show up throughout the house in small topiaries and fresh pots
of herbs. “I like a touch of something living in every room,” she says.
Unquestionably, Helen and Mark brought back life and dignity to
their falling down old home. “It’s hard to find farms where all the
buildings haven’t been sided in vinyl or aluminum,” Helen says. But
despite the condition of the house when they first saw it, they are
happy they focused on its potential. “We didn’t have to undo bad
things,” she says. “We just had to put it back together.”
For resources, see page 95.

Left: In an eating area off the

kitchen, Meg Page’s watercolor
renditions of Helen’s heirloom
peonies create the illusion of
extra windows. A wing chair
slipcovered in Belgian linen adds
comfort and a soft silhouette
at the dining table, preventing
the grouping from becoming
too stark and spindly. This photo:
Open shelving and a custom-
built island give the hardworking
kitchen vintage character.
Cottage Style 67
This photo: Found in the
basement of the original
house, a soapstone
sink is ideal for indoor
gardening. The green
vintage rack holds
Helen’s collection of
flower frogs and other
potting paraphernalia.
 Right: Splashes of blue
and layers of bedding on a
stately four-poster give the
master bedroom a regal
touch. Nature-inspired
prints and patterns are at
home in the farm setting.
Below right: In the guest
room, Helen layers Oriental
or animal hide rugs over
inexpensive sisal to add
texture. Nubby textiles
contrast with the cool
metallic stool and zinc
tabletop. Below: Carrara
marble countertops for
the master bath’s twin
sinks inspired the smoky
blue wall color. Vintage-
style beaded board and
painted wood floors
create cottage charm.

Cottage Style 69
This photo: The screen porch in Scott and
Leslie Fennell’s Kiawah Island, South
Carolina, cottage is a prime spot to sit
and take in the view across the marsh.
Pillows in Peter Dunham fabrics add
pops of pink to the neutral outdoor
furnishings. Opposite: Pretty peonies on
the brass-topped coffee table pick up
pink and blush tones in the living room.
ISLAND
IDYLL
With clean lines and a nature-inspired
palette, this contemporary island
cottage blends in effortlessly with its
serene surroundings.
WRITER AND FIELD EDITOR ANNE T. POPE
PHOTOGRAPHER KATIE CHARLOTTE
STYLIST SANDRA L. MOHLMANN

Cottage Style 71
 Left : The sunny foyer greets
guests with an abstract
painting by Brian Coleman
perched above a sleek console
table. A basket of towels says
welcome to the beach . This
photo: Symmetry reigns in the
elegantly casual living room.
The marsh scene by Sarah
Jeffers over the fireplace
reflects the landscape outside,
and matching open shelves
display objets d’art and other
curiosities. Designer Allison
Elebash paired custom chenille
sofas and seagrass barrel
chairs for ample seating,
making the most of the space
and keeping a low profile.

The airy Kiawah Island

cottage of Scott and
Leslie Fennell is
perfectly perched oover a verdant
marsh with expansive views of the river that winds
along South Carolina’s coast. After discovering the
pristine lot, the couple, whose main residence is in
nearby Charleston, worked with Thomas & Denzinger
Architects to design a contemporary home that would
seamlessly blend into the classic Low Country setting.
Large windows welcome views of the lush maritime
forest and marshes, and an open floor plan and
generous porches ease indoor-outdoor flow.
Inside, designer Allison Elebash took her cue from
the home’s surroundings, highlighting the creams,
greens, blues, browns, and grays of the natural world
with a complementary palette indoors. Hardwood
floors and textured rugs combine with woven accent
pieces, wrought iron, and pottery throughout. “Scott
and Leslie are well traveled and wanted a fresh take
on the traditional Southern beach house,” Elebash
says. “We began with foundational pieces and added
accents with natural fibers, sculptural lines, and

72 Cottage Style
Cottage Style 73
Opposite: Elebash commissioned a face-inspired
painting from artist Sally King Benedict as the focal
point of the dining space. “Sally’s work draws the
eye in as a colorful, playful statement piece,” Elebash
says. “The face really set the tone for this room.”
Below: Dramatic windows give this cottage kitchen
a splash of natural light and a view of the trees.
Elebash used Calacatta Gold quartz, a chic brass
Kelly Wearstler fixture, and sculptural brass barstools
for a sophisticated vibe. “Whether day or night, our
family and guests love to gather around this island,”
Leslie says. Right: Leslie relaxes on the upper-level
porch. The gray wicker sectional is covered in piped
Sunbrella fabric, with Schumacher prints on the
pillows. Custom curtains—also in Sunbrella—provide
shade from the afternoon sun.

updated finishes—along with modern artwork. It’s
relaxed, but with a sophisticated feel.”
Elebash conceived the main level as an open
space for daily living that can be dressed up for
entertaining. The inviting living room offers
comfortable seating with custom chenille sofas and
seagrass side chairs. A striking ebony-and-brass
coffee table anchors the room, and a wispy marsh
scene by Sarah Jeffers hangs over the fireplace.
In the adjacent dining area, Chippendale chairs
with a pale apricot fabric surround a custom round
table with a fluted base for a casual, lighthearted feel.
Just steps away, the kitchen’s dramatic windows flood
the space with sunlight. Custom cabinetry is painted
a serene watery blue (Oval Room Blue by Farrow &
Ball), which is complemented by the cool Calacatta
Gold quartz on the countertops and waterfall island.
Elebash chose the striking Kelly Wearstler light
fixture above the island to add visual interest to the
high ceilings and as a bold contrast to the traditional
beachy elements of the cottage. Brass fixtures and
hardware echo the theme.
The bedrooms continue the quiet, nature-inspired
palette. In the main-level master bedroom, grass-cloth
walls in a soft gray-blue bring just-right texture. On
the upper level, additional bedrooms and baths for the
children are light and bright with block-print fabrics
and whimsical art and accessories. The upper-level
porch between the rooms is—as expected—a prime
gathering spot for the young and young at heart.
“We are so pleased with the look, feel, and flow
of this special little house,” Leslie says. “It lives
beautifully, and we find it very hard to leave.
Weekends have been turning into long weekends on
a regular basis.”
For resources, see page 95.

Cottage Style 75
“OUR GOAL WAS
TO REFLECT A
LAID-BACK,
CONTEMPORARY
COASTAL VIBE.”
—designer Allison Elebash
 Opposite: In daughter Madeleine’s bedroom, a bold accent wall features
Galbraith & Paul’s Casita wallpaper in a vibrant green. The headboard was
custom designed, and white lacquer lamps are a nod to the turtles that
nest on the nearby beach. “Each room in the house has a subtle reference
to the island,” Leslie says. “After all, we are here because of Kiawah’s
natural beauty.” Clockwise from top left: Elebash selected this alabaster light
fixture for its sculptural feel. “It reminded me of shells and coral bleached
by the sun,” she says, “like a special treasure you might find washed up
along the seashore.” Cheery artwork, an upholstered ottoman, and a
quirky rattan chair found at World Market brighten a corner of Madeleine’s
bedroom. The blue-and-white guest bedroom features custom headboards
in a graphic block print, crowned by woven rush mats. An airy sea glass
light fixture glows above. The master bath is a study in serenity with a
large walk-in shower and freestanding soaking tub; hardwood floors offer
a warm contrast to the tile walls. Elebash chose the island-inspired Cole
& Son Palm Leaves wallpaper for the petite powder room, adding a little
glamour with a gilt mirror and brass fixtures. The peaceful master bedroom
features grass-cloth walls, a custom headboard in a Galbraith & Paul
print, and an upholstered bench; lacquer bedside tables and other white
accessories are deliberately understated to keep the focus on the view.

Cottage Style 77
This photo: Salvaged 100-year-old
heart pine ceiling beams, vintage
shutters, and a chunky custom-made
table nod to the homeowners’ desire
for some Texas rusticity. Opposite:
An expansive back porch extends
nearly the width of the house.
Wicker chairs pull up to an iron-base
table that can remain outdoors.
 COASTAL
perch At this serene coastal
cottage, dressed in
calming neutrals and
organic textures, people
and wildlife add the color.
WRITER AND FIELD EDITOR LUANN BRANDSEN
PHOTOGRAPHER MICHAEL HUNTER

Standing on her back porch, Audrey Wylie watches

a lanky heron forage in the nearby marsh as a purple
martin swoops into a multifamily birdhouse just
over the railing. “They’re so engaging,” she says of
the vociferous swallows. “I find it fascinating that
the same pair of purple martins return from South
America each year to nest in the very same house.”
Audrey knows a thing or two about migrating,
returning nearly every weekend to the familiarity
of her getaway perched on a finger of Galveston
Island tapping into the Texas bay of the same name.
Trading Houston’s dynamic energy for relaxed days
stirring up savory gumbo, walking the shoreline, and
toasting beautiful sunsets provides what she calls
“a fabulous change of pace.”
Designer-builder John Dreiss and designer Ginger
Barber get credit for the home’s authentic ease. “I wanted
a simple, classic beach house with dog- and family-
friendly interiors that are light and open, with a softness
and a Texas flair,” Audrey says. “They nailed it.”
For Barber, who grew up along the water and
favors clean-lined, timeless schemes, blending Texas

Cottage Style 79
 Above: An antique tall cabinet-
turned-island inspired the
kitchen’s style. Designer Ginger
Barber extended the island’s
surface area with pieces cut from
an old door made of similar wood.
Right: On display in the living
room, a vintage pond boat—a
lucky small-shop find—enjoys
smooth sailing in the home’s
coastal scheme. Opposite: The
guest sitting room carves out a
space for visitors to relax and
watch movies. Antique oars and
educational wildlife posters adorn
walls, and an old blanket chest
stands ready to support drinks,
food, even propped-up feet.

80 Cottage Style
“THE INTERIORS FEEL LIKE
YOU’RE AT THE BEACH,
BUT IT’S NOT FORCED.”
—homeowner Audrey Wylie
 rusticity, neutral palettes, and coastal influences
comes as naturally as the tides.
Throughout the home, whitewashed shiplap, jute
and seagrass rugs, grass window shades, and nubby
linen slipcovers inject texture-rich interest into
the neutral scheme. Antiques, including a stunning
French cabinet that now serves as a kitchen island,
provide rugged warmth amid the new. And color
comes in whispers—a small blue ladder-back chair
in the living room, green salvaged shutters flanking
the bar area, and soft muted throws. “Audrey didn’t
want too much going on,” Barber says. “It’s not overly
decorated. In the living room, for instance, the large
cypress-stump coffee table has so much life and
movement that we didn’t need too much else. A lot

Right: Washable linen slipcovers, an easy-to-clean

wool jute rug, and nearly indestructible shiplap walls
ensure the living room remains dog- and family-
friendly. Lueders limestone quarried in Texas trims
the fireplace. Below: “You just don’t see pieces like
this anymore,” Barber says of the old ladder-back
rush-seat bench just off the great-room. A fat linen
cushion complements the antique’s raw wood finish.

82 Cottage Style
Cottage Style 83
 This photo: The children’s
sleeping quarters mimic bunk
beds on a ship. Old crates
topped with cushions double
as storage units and seating.

of homes today have too many great things in one

room, and that’s not peaceful.”
With minimal distractions and practical
materials, the home opens itself to easy living.
“It’s low-maintenance, and no one worries about
getting anything dirty,” Audrey says. “The interiors
feel like you’re at the beach, but it’s not forced.
Instead, the home is comfortable and relaxing,
which helps you focus on what’s around you.”
And that list is virtually endless: the roseate
spoonbills who forage in the wetlands, the lone
osprey who perches daily on the back porch
railing, and, of course, those magnificent sunsets
that cast a warm, comforting glow all around.
For resources, see page 95.

84 Cottage Style
This photo: A photo-on-canvas beach
scene by Houston photographer
Karen Sachar fittingly enhances the
master bedroom’s sense of retreat.
Opposite: The master bedroom opens
to a screen porch, which welcomes
breathtaking coastal views.
 AMERICAN
classic With four sons no longer living under
their roof, this empty-nester couple
welcomed the next chapter of home life
with fresh furnishings, bright colors,
and plenty of all-American charm.

s
WRITER WENDY GRAY PHOTOGRAPHER ED GOHLICH FIELD EDITOR KAREN REINECKE

Saying goodbye to a house full of kids can be
bittersweet, but for Anne and Ted Peterson it was
also the catalyst for a much-needed remodel. “Ours
has always been the hangout house, and we didn’t
want that to change when the kids left,” says Anne
of their La Jolla, California, home. “That said, we
had some lackluster finishes and posters on the wall
that needed to go.” So the empty nesters sought out
a design professional to undo the wear from raising
four boys—and give their home an up-to-the-minute
refresh in the process.
The couple didn’t tell their grown children about
the project; they wanted to surprise them with a house
that still felt like home, only better. Their designer of
choice, Audrey Kennedy, jumped right in. “I basically
kept the style—let’s call it all-American—that the
Petersons already had but brought it into a new era,”
she says. “We knew we wanted to honor the crisp
aesthetic as well as the amazing energy of the home.”
New hardwood flooring and a bright palette of navy
and green—offset with plenty of white—establish the
laid-back beach cottage vibe the Petersons wanted

86 Cottage Style
Double doors are well-suited to a coastal cottage
where light and views take priority. Simple navy-
and-white Roman shades and a Kelly green bench
establish the home’s cohesive color palette.
 Above left: Getting a
complete makeover, the
dining room features host
and hostess chairs on
casters and a table that
extends for the holidays.
New light fixtures shine
against the all-white
backdrop. Above right: For
a cottage feel, designer
Audrey Kennedy added
tongue-and-groove
paneling to the kitchen
peninsula. She brought
in new chairs, repainted
the cabinets and walls,
and refinished the
existing oak floor planks.
Left: The family room
previously had wall-to-
wall carpeting, but this
stylish rug offers the
same level of comfort and
sound reduction. Kennedy
re-covered the couch in
gray linen and purchased
a handmade coffee
table to complement
the existing mantel.

88 Cottage Style
This photo: The breakfast nook is anchored by
an existing oak table that got a coat of fresh
white paint. Kennedy painted the accent
wall above the beaded-board paneling
rich navy to give the space dimension.
 Clockwise from top left: Ottomans under the dining room console
coordinate with pillows on the living room couch and double as extra
seating when needed. Navy, green, and white repeat throughout the
home, even in the smallest accessories like this bowl of apples. Once
featuring country floral wallpaper and a white cabinet, the main-level
powder room got a complete redo that favors a crisp blue diamond
backdrop and navy vanity. So the flow is natural, this eating area
just outside the family room and breakfast nook is themed to match
the interior; to accomplish this, Kennedy introduced new cushions,
accessories, an umbrella, and a rug, and repainted the siding and trim.
Coordinating mirrors help the master bath medicine cabinet (left)
integrate seamlessly into the refreshed environment, which includes
new polished-nickel hardware and a casual navy stool. A charming arbor
and mature front yard give this seaside cottage major curb appeal.

90 Cottage Style
without going too nautical. New furnishings mix with
existing ones, updated with easy-care slipcovers and
sturdy fabrics.
Anne says that when their sons first came for
a visit, they completely embraced the look. “It’s
always a good sign when people can come into a
redone space and still feel instantly comfortable,”
she says. Kennedy is equally pleased with the
results. “The house had a lot of interest already—the
bones were there—we just freshened it up and put
some jewelry on it,” she says. “This style reflects
the Petersons beautifully; it’s sunny and happy,
just like they are.” Kennedy remembers fondly
how Anne offered her warm homemade cookies
every time she visited during the design process. It
doesn’t get much more all-American than that.
For resources, see page 95.

Above: Two boys once slept in a surfer-theme room that

now is well-appointed for two visiting family members.
The space is quite large, so Kennedy placed wicker
trunks with leather straps at the foot of each twin bed;
they stylishly house extra bedding. Left: A room with an
ocean view, the master bedroom got a fitting update in
the form of light sea-glass blue paint. Touches of green
reference the bright green bench in the home’s entryway.

Cottage Style 91
 shopping guide
Find collectibles, linens, antiques, and more with the help of this state-by-state
shopping guide to flea markets and family-run stores. Or check out our list of national retailers.
National Retailers California
Ohmega Salvage
Fishs Eddy 2400 San Pablo Ave.
212/420-9020 Berkeley, CA 94702
fishseddy.com 510/204-0767
Home Decorators Collection ohmegasalvage.com
at Home Depot Rose Bowl Flea Market
800/245-2217 1001 Rose Bowl Dr.
homedepot.com Pasadena, CA 91103
Maine Cottage (Second Sunday
866/366-3505 of each month)
mainecottage.com 323/560-7469, ext. 510
Padma’s Plantation rgcshows.com
800/753-9190 Santa Monica Airport
padmasplantation.com Outdoor Antique and
Pine Cone Hill, Collectible Market
an Annie Selke company Airport Ave. at Bundy Dr.,
877/586-4771 Santa Monica, CA 90066
annieselke.com (First and fourth
Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Sundays of each month)
800/516-4309 323/933-2511
shabbychic.com santamonicaairportantique
Tuesday Morning market.com
800/457-0099
tuesdaymorning.com Colorado
The Bunny Gate
719 S. University Blvd.
State by State Denver, CO 80209
303/733-2666
Alabama Facebook: The Bunny Gate
Hanna Antiques Mall The Junk Trunk
2424 Seventh Ave. S 209 Central Ave.
Birmingham, AL 35233 Kremmling, CO 80459
205/323-6036 970/724-3315
hannaantiques.com Facebook: The Junk Trunk
Mile High Flea Market
Alaska 7007 E. 88th Ave.
The Boardwalk Shop Henderson, CO 80640
701 E. Parks Hwy. (Every Friday, Saturday, and
Wasilla, AK 99654 Sunday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
907/357-8980 303/289-4656
homeagaindecor.com milehighfleamarket.com
Arizona Connecticut
Antiquities Warehouse Classic Country Furniture
2025 E. University Dr. 1921 Rte. 32
Phoenix, AZ 85034 Uncasville, CT 06382
(Tuesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 860/848-0707
4 p.m.; open to the public) classiccountryfurniture
602/253-6206 .blogspot.com
antiquitieswarehouse.com Lillian August
Found by Domestic Bliss 32 Knight St.
7131 W. Ray Rd., Suite 13 Norwalk, CT 06851
Chandler, AZ 85226 855/576-4144
480/773-6863 lillianaugust.com
founddesign.co
Delaware
Arkansas The Coastal Cottage
410 Vintage Market 101 Atlantic Ave.
410 N. College Ave. Ocean View, DE 19970
Fayetteville, AR 72701 302/539-7821
479/521-2444 thecoastalcottageshop.com
92 Cottage Style
District of
Columbia
Mom N Pop Antiques
3534 Georgia Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20010
202/722-0719
attic-dc.com/store/mom-n-pop
-antiques
Florida
Renningers Antique Center
20651 U.S. 441
Mount Dora, FL 32757
352/383-8393
renningers.net
Georgia
Heirloom Iron Bed Co.
27 Oak St.
Roswell, GA 30075
678/710-6160
heirloomironbed.com
Lakewood 400
Antiques Market
1321 Atlanta Hwy.
Cumming, GA 30040
770/889-3400
lakewoodantiques.com
One Fish Two Fish
401 Whitaker St.
Savannah, GA 31401
912/447-4600
Facebook: One Fish Two Fish
Scott Antique Market
Atlanta Expo Center
3650 and 3850 Jonesboro Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30354
740/569-2800
scottantiquemarket.com
for show dates
Hawaii
Honokaa Marketplace Inc.
45-3586 Mamane St.
Honokaa, HI 96727
808/775-8255
Facebook: Honokaa Market
Place
Idaho
Crows Nest Mercantile
114 12th Ave. S.
Nampa, ID 83651
208/461-2766
Facebook: Crows Nest
Mercantile
Illinois
Architectural Artifacts Inc.
4325 N. Ravenswood Ave.
Chicago, IL 60613
773/348-0622
architecturalartifacts.com
Grayslake Antique and
Collectible Market through
Zurko Promotions
Lake County Fairgrounds
1060 E. Peterson Rd.
Grayslake, IL 60030
(Year-round, second Sunday
monthly and the preceding
Saturday)
715/526-9769
zurkopromotions.com
Kane County Flea Market
Kane County Fairgrounds
525 S. Randall Rd.
St. Charles, IL 60174
(March through December,
first Sunday monthly and the
preceding Saturday afternoon)
630/377-2252
kanecountyfleamarket.com
Sandwich Antiques Market
Sandwich Fairgrounds
1401 Suydam Rd.
Sandwich, IL 60548
(Six Sundays from May through
October, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.;
see website for dates.)
815/786-3337
sundayatsandwichantiques
.com
3rd Sunday Market
2301 W. Market St.
Bloomington, IL 61702
(Third Sunday of the month
from May through October,
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
217/202-2847
thirdsundaymarket.com
Indiana
Dutch Village Market
700 N. Tomahawk Trail
Nappanee, IN 46550
574/773-2828
Facebook: Dutch Village
Market
Green Oak Antiques
3024 S. County Rd. 425 E.
Rochester, IN 46975
574/223-5702
greenoakantiques.com
Shipshewana Auction
& Flea Market
345 S. Van Buren St.
Shipshewana, IN 46565
(See website for dates.)
260/768-4129
shipshewanatradingplace.com
Iowa
Relics
103 First Ave. W
Newton, IA 50208
641/787-0353
Facebook: Relics LLC
Valley Junction
Antique Jamboree
137 Fifth St.
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(See website for dates.)
515/222-3642
valleyjunction.com
What Cheer Flea Market
Keokuk County Fairgrounds
13061 170th St.
What Cheer, IA 50268
319/404-4066
(First weekend in May,
August, and October)
whatcheerfleamarket.com
Kansas
Antique Emporium of Alma
322 Missouri Ave.
Alma, KS 66401
785/765-3332
almaantiquestore.com
Facebook:
Antique Emporium of Alma
Kentucky
Mount Sterling Court Days
132 S. Queen St.
Mount Sterling, KY 40353
(Begins the weekend before
the third Monday in October)
859/398-0289
mtsterlingcourtdays.com
Louisiana
The Royal Standard
2877 Perkins Rd.
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
225/344-2311
theroyalstandard.com
Maine
Montsweag Flea Market
6 Hunnewell Ln.
Woolwich, ME 04579
(Every weekend and
Wednesday from Mother’s Day
in May to Columbus Day in
October)
207/443-2809
montsweagfleamarket.org
The York Antiques Gallery
746 U.S. Rte. 1
York, ME 03909
207/363-5002
yorkantiques.com
Maryland Mississippi New Jersey
Blue Crab Antiques Nostalgia Alley Ashton-Whyte
55 Maryland Ave. 214 W. Main St. 157 W. Delaware Ave.
Annapolis, MD 21401 Tupelo, MS 38804 Pennington, NJ 08534
443/949-7055 662/842-2757 609/737-7171
bluecrabantiques.com ashtonwhyte.com
Maine Cottage Store Missouri Empire Antiques
1205 West St. Stuff 278 Monmouth St.
Annapolis, MD 21401 316 W. 63rd St. Hightstown, NJ 08520
866/366-3505 Kansas City, MO 64113 800/626-4969
mainecottage.com 816/361-8222 aaempireantiques.com
Urban Country astorenamedstuff.com Luna Rosa Home
7121 Arlington Rd. Warson Woods Antique 1218 Washington St.
Bethesda, MD 20814 Gallery Hoboken, NJ 07030
301/654-0500 10091 Manchester Rd. 201/222-0606
urbancountrydesigns.com St. Louis, MO 63122 lunarosahome.com
314/909-0123
Massachusetts missouriantiquemalls.com New Mexico
Brimfield Antique Show Whitehawk Antique Shows
429 Main St. Montana Santa Fe Community
Palmer, MA 01069 Accent & Antiques Convention Center
(One week each in May, July, 1015 14th St. S 201 W. Marcy St.
and September; see website Great Falls, MT 59405 Santa Fe, NM 87501
for dates.) 406/727-6049 505/992-8929
413/283-6149 Stuff & Such Antiques whitehawkshows.com
brimfieldshow.com 121 W. Broadway St.
Cedar Chest Philipsburg, MT 59858 New York
150 Main St. 406/560-3241 Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market
Northampton, MA 01060 stuffnsuch.wix.com/antiques New York City
413/584-3860 W. 39th St. between 9th and
explorecedarchest.com Nebraska 10th Aves.
Brass Armadillo New York, NY
Michigan Antique Mall (Every Saturday and Sunday,
Allegan Antiques Market 10666 Sapp Brothers Dr. weather permitting)
Allegan County Fairgrounds Omaha, NE 68138 212/220-0239
150 Allegan County Fair Dr. 402/896-9140 hellskitchenfleamarket.com
Allegan, MI 49010 brassarmadillo.com Lavender Fields
(Last Sunday of the month, Special Finds 318 Wynn Ln.
April through September) 106 N. Hwy. 77 Port Jefferson, NY 11777
616/735-3333 Homer, NE 68030 866/898-5461
alleganantiques.com 402/698-2296 lavenderfieldsonline.com
V2V Facebook: Special Finds The Pink Pig
407 N. Fifth Ave. Homer 2750 Essex Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Essex, NY 12936
734/665-9110 Nevada 518/962-8833
shopv2v.com Vintage Charms pinkpigwestport.com
40 Bridge St. Rhinebeck Antiques Fair
Minnesota Yerington, NV 89447 Dutchess County Fairgrounds
Alfresco Casual Living 775/463-3133 6550 Springbrook Ave.
321 S. Main St. Rhinebeck, NY 12572
Stillwater, MN 55082 New Hampshire (Memorial Day weekend and
651/439-0814 Mid Week Antiques Show Columbus Day weekend)
alfrescocasualliving.com Douglas N. Everett Arena 845/876-1989
Downtown Oronoco 15 Loudon Rd. dutchessfair.com
Gold Rush Days Concord, NH 03301
Downtown Oronoco (Wednesday and
(Third weekend in August) Thursday following the
507/367-2111 first Saturday of August)
goldrushmn.com 845/876-0616
barnstar.com
Cottage Style 93
 shopping guide
North Carolina
Cottage Chic
105 Cherokee Rd.
Pinehurst, NC 28374
910/691-8380
cottagechicstore.com
Liberty Antiques Festival
2855 Pike Farm Rd.
Liberty, NC 27355
800/626-2672
libertyantiquesfestival.com
Porter & Prince
6 Brook St.
Asheville, NC 28803
828/277-2337
porterandprince.com
The Vintage Village
9300 Durant Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27614
919/796-4754
Facebook: The Vintage Village
North Dakota
Fargo Antiques
& Repurposed Market
5258 51st Ave. S
Fargo, ND 58104
701/356-9199
farmantiques.weebly.com
MNM ReStore
87 S. Central Ave.
Beach, ND 58621
701/872-2424
Plain and Fancy
Antique Mall
1726 S. Washington St.
Grand Forks, ND 58201
701/775-0714
Facebook: Plain and Fancy
Antique Mall
Ohio
Aunt Eek’s Store
9800 U.S. Hwy. 22 E
Stoutsville, OH 43154
740/477-8363
Facebook: Aunt Eek’s Store
Springfield Antique
Show & Flea Market
Clark County Fairgrounds
4401 S. Charleston Pike
Springfield, OH 45502
(See website for dates.)
937/325-0053
springfieldantiqueshow.com
94 Cottage Style
Oklahoma South Dakota Virginia
Swick’s Flea Market Collectiques The Old Lucketts Store
5802 W. 51st St. 620 Broadway 42350 Lucketts Rd.
Tulsa, OK 74107 Yankton, SD 57078 Leesburg, VA 20176
(Year-round, Saturdays, 8 a.m. 605/668-2252 703/779-0268
to 5 p.m.) Facebook: Collectiques luckettstore.com
918/445-3532 Williams & Sherrill Interiors
saturdayfleamarket.com Tennessee 2003 Huguenot Rd.
The Iron Gate Richmond, VA 23173
Oregon 338 Main St. 804/320-1730
Stars Antiques Malls Franklin, TN 37064 williamsandsherrill.com
7027 SE. Milwaukie Ave. theirongateonline.net
Portland, OR 97214 127 Corridor Sale Washington
503/239-0346 690 miles along U.S. Rte. 127 Seattle Antiques Market
starsantique.com (From 5 miles north of Addison, 1400 Alaskan Way
Passion Flower Design MI to Gadsden, AL) Seattle, WA 98101
128 E. Broadway (First Thursday in August 206/623-6115
Eugene, OR 97401 through the following Sunday) seattleantiquesmarket.com
541/344-3857 127sale.com
passionflowerdesign.com West Virginia
Texas Capitol Flea Market
Pennsylvania Blue Leaf 2101 Greenbrier St.
Renninger’s 2303 South Blvd. Charleston, WV 25311
Antiques Market Houston, TX 77098 (Year-round, Friday, Saturday,
2500 N. Reading Rd. 713/520-9975 and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Denver, PA 17517 First Monday Trade Days 304/342-1626
(Year-round, Sundays only) 800 First Monday Ln. Facebook:
717/336-2177 Canton, TX 75103 Capitol Flea Market Charleston
renningers.net (Year-round, Thursday through
Renninger’s Antiques, Sunday before the first Monday Wisconsin
Outdoor Flea, and of the month) Wisconsin Dells
Farmers Markets 903/567-6556 Antique Mall
740 Noble St. firstmondaycanton.com S2269 Timothy Ln.
Kutztown, PA 19530 Wisconsin Dells, WI 53913
610/683-6848 Utah 608/356-3916
renningers.net Capital City Antique Mall wisconsindellsantiquemall
959 S. West Temple St. .com
Rhode Island Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Aardvark Antiques 801/521-7207 Wyoming
9 JT Connell Hwy. Cy Avenue Antique Mall
Newport, RI 02840 Vermont 1905 Cy Ave.
800/446-1052 Equinox Antiques & Fine Art Casper, WY 82604
aardvarkantiques.com 3568 Historic Main St., 307/237-2293
Homestyle Route 7A Facebook: Cy Antique Mall of
229 Westminster St. Sunderland, VT 05254 Casper, Wyoming
Providence, RI 02903 802/362-3540
401/277-1159 Stowe Kitchen Bath
homestyleri.com & Linens
1813 Mountain Rd.
South Carolina Stowe, VT 05672
GDC Home 802/253-8050
1290 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. stowekitchen.net
West Ashley, SC 29407
843/571-5142
gdchome.com
Golden & Associates
Antiques
204 & 206 King St.
Charleston, SC 29401
843/723-8886
goldenassociatesantiques
.com

Contact these design professionals or sources for more information about their services and products.
For more decorating ideas, check out our online links at BHG.com/CottageStyle.
THE CALL OF THE SEA
PAGES 14–23
Interior design: Charles Riley,
Charles Riley Design, New York
City; charles@charlesrileydesign;
charlesrileydesign.com.
Construction: Jeff Thomas,
Hearthstone Home Developers,
Danbury, Connecticut;
203/240-3814.
Landscape design: Austin Ganim
Landscape Design LLC, Fairfield,
Connecticut; 203/333-2003;
austinganimlandscapedesign.com.
LOCAL REFRESH
PAGES 24-29
Interior design: Maura O’Malley,
Maura O’Malley Interiors, 129
Newbury St., Fourth Floor, Boston,
MA 02116; 617/680-1633;
info@mauraomalley.com;
mauraomalley.com.
Architecture: Anne Snelling-Lee,
54 Carver Rd., Newton, MA 02461;
617/464-4665; anne@aslstudios.com;
aslstudios.com.
General contracting: Pimental
Contractors, 120 River Rd., New
Bedford, MA 02745; 508/995-0524;
pimentalcontractors.com.
COLORFUL
PERSONALITY
PAGES 30-37
Architecture: Thomas H. Egan III,
Evolve Residential, 89 W. Concord
St., Boston, MA 02118; 617/424-
0003; tom@evolveresidential.com;
evolveresidential.com.
Interior design: Josh Linder, Evolve
Residential, 89 W. Concord St.,
Boston, MA 02118; 617/424-0003;
josh@evolveresidential.com;
evolveresidential.com.
resources
SUMMER SANCTUARY
PAGES 38-45
Renovation architecture: James
Rill, AIA, Rill Architects, Bethesda,
Maryland, 301/656-4166; contact@
rillarchitects; rillarchitects.com.
Interior design: Nancy Harper, Studio
Miel, Washington, D.C.; 202/746-
9866; hello@studio-miel.com;
studio-miel.com.
Renovation contractor: Thorsen
Construction, Alexandria,
Virginia; 703/501-1506; info@
thorsenconstruction.us;
thorsenconstruction.us.
Landscape design: Christopher J.
Dow, Gibson Island Corp., Gibson
Island, Maryland; 410/255-1414.
BRIGHT AND BREEZY
PAGES 46-53
Design: Tracey Rapisardi, Tracey
Rapisardi Design LLC; 941/359-0208;
tracey@traceyrapisardidesign
.com; traceyrapisardidesign.com;
traceyrapisardistyle.wordpress
.com; Instagram: @tracey_rapisardi_
design.
For more furnishings, visit
Mandi Rapisardi at Summer +
Company, 431 N. Orange Ave.,
Sarasota, FL 34236; 941/877-1326;
summerandcompanyhome@
gmail.com; summerandcompany
home.com; Instagram: @summer_
and_company.
10 WAYS TO REFRESH
YOUR HOME’S
EXTERIOR
PAGES 54-61
To view homes Adam Widener is
currently listing in the New York
City area, visit The Eklund Gomes
Team at Douglas Elliman Real Estate;
theeklundgomesteam.elliman.com.
Reach Adam at 646/543-7978;
adam.widener@elliman.com;
Instagram: @adam_widener.
Design: Quinn Pofahl, New York
City and The Hamptons, New York;
quinnpofahl@gmail.com.
SET IN STONE
PAGES 62-69
Kitchen island design: Jan Hoffman
and David Woodward, Hoffman &
Woodward, 412 W. King St., East
Berlin, PA 17316; 717/259-7676;
hoffmanwoodward.com.
Interior design: Lauren Liess, Lauren
Liess & Co., Washington, D.C.;
571/926-7825; mail@laurenliess.com;
laurenliess.com.
ISLAND IDYLL
PAGES 70–77
Architecture: David N. Fisher,
AIA, Thomas & Denzinger,
Charleston, South Carolina;
843/723-6651; david@
thomasanddenzingerarchitects.com;
thomasanddenzingerarchitects.com.
Interior design: Allison Elebash,
Allison Elebash Interior Design,
Mount Pleasant, South Carolina;
allison@allisonelebash.com;
allisonelebash.com.
COASTAL PERCH
PAGES 78–85
Interior design: Ginger Barber,
Ginger Barber Interior Design,
Houston; 713/523-1925; ginger@
gingerbarber.com; gingerbarber.com.
Construction: John Dreiss, Purple
Sage Construction, Galveston, Texas;
409/737-3005.
AMERICAN CLASSIC
PAGES 86–91
Design: Audrey Kennedy,
AGK Design Studio, La Jolla,
California; 858/551-8752;
audrey@agkdesignstudio.com;
agkdesignstudio.com.
Cottage Style 95
96
Cottage Style
last look

IS EVER OUT
REALLY LIKE
NOTHING YOU
TASTE BECAUSE
TO YOUR OWN
“BE FAITHFUL

OF STYLE.”
—Billy Baldwin

Cottage Style™ (ISSN 1552-5759), Spring/Summer 2020. Cottage Style is published twice a year in April and October by Meredith Corp., 1716 Locust St., Des Moines, IA 50309-3023.
© Meredith Corp. 2020. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
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