Cottages and Bungalows February/March 2020

dream a little dream

MY HUSBAND SAYS THAT MY LITTLE REQUESTS OFTEN TURN INTO BIG PROBLEMS. For him, I argue. We’re at that stage in our renovation journey where 60% of the dream for this home is done. And road-weary from all the drywall dust and decision-making, the Home Depot trips and product samples, we’re happy to just live in what we’ve got. Enjoy that the kitchen is done and start hosting more. Enjoy that the beautiful rug does indeed match the sofa and relax more. Sit out on the porch and watch our front yard garden bloom and mature this year and see it all grow together just as we’d hoped. But then the other night, I suggested, “Let’s just give the peel-and-stick wallpaper a try!” Knowing we’re not ready to demo the guest…

like it, love it

Tour This Spanish Bungalow Makeover In the mood for more renovation success stories? Check out this charmer complete with a restored vintage kitchen. Roses for Romance Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or Gal-entine’s Day you celebrate, we’ve got the rosiest setting to inspire a pretty brunch table. Journaling Toward Gratitude With the new year here, why not adopt a new healthy practice? Take time to create habits of thankfulness by starting a gratitude journal. Check out our favorites. 22 Entertaining Essentials for Your Wedding Registry Are church bells ringing in your future or the future of someone you love? This guide will help get you set for a lifetime of gorgeous gatherings. DIY Reversible Stair Risers Ever wanted to give your stairs a makeover? This product can help you do just that. cottagesandbungalowsmag.com Follow us online on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram for…

3 easy ways to add cottage curb appeal

How do you add cottage style to your exterior if you don’t live in a cottage? In this case, it’s easier done than said. Even if you don’t have the shingle siding, double Dutch door and decorative shutters that would make your home look like a fairytale cottage, there are still ways you can add cottage curb appeal. Here are three ideas to try. Paint the front door. A brightly colored front door will go a long way to making your home look cute and cozy from the outside. Pick a color that will stand out from the street and will work with your home’s exterior paint. Then add a seasonal wreath for a finishing touch. Add porch décor. Your porch is the outdoor space that will give passersby a glimpse into your…

magical places & things

Whether you’re looking to decorate your walls with beautiful, inspired original paintings or striking, quality artist’s prints, consider the work of Dutch artist Marleen Kleiberg. For this mother of five, painting is a creative lifeline. She says, “I keep my dreams alive by painting and creating beautiful things whenever I have a chance.” Her love of painting came from her own experimentation, and the inspiration for her work is the Impressionist painters. “I just want to paint light and shadow. I hope people feel the atmosphere in my paintings,” says Marleen. “And I want to remind the viewer that there are places and things that are magical, no matter how simple they are. I try to reflect my love for the beauty of the subjects I paint and the joy I…

retro touch

mint and light blue