6 Basics to Cottage Style

Bright, Unexpected Color

Bold color invigorates small spaces. Laurie Lewis painted a back hallway in her California cottage a yellowish orange and converted it into extra closet space. The foundation of white walls and white trim in the kitchen allowed her the freedom to play with splashes of spicy color. A bright closet off the kitchen might seem unconventional, but it's a practical storage solution in smaller houses, and cottage style embraces a touch of decorating whimsy.