Welcome to Cottage Dreaming, A Blog for Cottage Lovers...

Currently, with economic concerns impacting how we live and where we live, cottages will, I predict, have a comeback. They are usually smaller and more compact, but pack a lot of comfortable living space. A canvas wall hanging in the Spring 2012 "The Lakeside Collection" says it well: "Love grows well in Little Houses." This was true throughout the history of the United States, until the past 50 years, and it is true currently.

No offense, anyone, but a family of five in a three story, 10 room home has to work harder to keep in touch and to interact. That same family, in a five room, one story cottage or other small house, is closer, both in proximity, as well, I would suggest, as in emotional closeness. For this reason, as well as for economic necessity, small, cozy homes will be the prominent choice for middle income families in the future, as well as for empty-nesters and individuals who prefer a small home to an apartment or condo.

I love cottages of all kinds. My favorite cottage is one made of stone with a steeply pitched roof. I prefer a cottage that is close to water, whether it is a lake, bayou, coastal area or river. However, a cottage located close to the center of a commercial neighborhood is also appealing to me.

If you love cottages or other smaller homes, please join us in all things cottage, here at Cottage Dreamer. Thousands of small homes are out there ready to be custom-fit to your needs. They abound in small towns as well as in cities throughout the U.S.

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Pleasant day-dreams! Phebe


Tuesday, February 28, 2012

My Choice for Spring

My Spring 2012 project is to perk up my bathroom.  It has been a hodge-podge of towels and rugs since we moved here in 2007.  I had other things to do, and really couldn't decide on a theme or colors that I really liked.  


Also, towels seem to last "forever"!  It hurts me to dispose of towels that have become faded and even softer.  Also I have an aversion to products "made in China" and finding acceptable others is growing more difficult.  (My problem, I admit).


My bath is painted a rustic gold color - the plaster appears old and aged.  It has been difficult for me to decide on a color that appeals to me and also matches the walls.  


Long ago, in another home, I designed the perfect bath for me.  It was all white - white fixtures, white walls, white floor, a mirrored wall, and a skylight that my husband added after our home was built - over the bathtub.  I dearly loved decorating that bath, adding colors that appealed to me.  One of my favorites was to use bright green towels on a white background with fern leaves.  I hung live ferns above the tub, and the bright light always made the bathroom a happy and bright place to be.  The ferns flourished with the moisture from the tub/shower.


I again wish for an all white bathroom.  However, such is not to be, unless I paint, and that is more than I want to do, living here by myself, with very tall ceilings and walls.  It is also unachievable because I have dark wood surround on the tub, dark woodwork, and dark floors.  


I am hoping for a quick makeover; some towels, rugs, and accessories in a color or colors that make me happy.  Now, deciding what color is the challenge.  Finding attractive storage is also a goal.  Bathroom clutter can be unsightly.  Surely there is a way to organize it and make it attractive, yet easily available.


What are some color combinations that make you happy?  I've walked for several hours through linen and bath shops, and have decided my colors.  They make me happy and remind me that Spring is almost here.  I will share them next post.  


Happy planning and sharing!  I am waiting to hear what your decorating project will be.  Also, tell me your favorite colors at this time.  


Enjoy!  Phebe