Back in Time

One need not own an old house to achieve a vintage look. Chicago-area homeowner Anne Payetta’s abode was built in 2006, yet she’s perfected the cozy cottage style that she loves. Inspired by Rachel Ashwell’s Shabby Chic look, as well as numerous home decor blogs, Anne, a blogger herself, shares the following ways to fashion a classic cottage vibe in your own home, whether old or new:

Bright Whites.

This crisp hue offers a quick way to transform a space. Kitchen cabinets, tables, ladders, chairs, stools and much more can make a noticeable cottage statement when revived with a coat of white chalky-finish paint, either left as is or artfully distressed.

Chip, Chip Hooray.

When visiting antiques shops or garage sales, keep an eye out for items that show their age, with layers of paint, dents and dings. “Nothing screams ’cottage’ more than old chippy pieces,” Anne notes.

Undercover Accents.

No need to part with comfortable furniture that doesn’t fit the cottage theme. Slipcover sofas and chairs, use burlap or flour sacks as pillow covers, and paint and distress side tables and accent pieces.

Cast-Off Creativity.

An old barn door, garden gate, fence panel or dormer vent make for distinctive displays or wall art, either on their own or in tandem with other pieces. Anne crafted a unique focal point when she teamed a trellis with a weathered column and a mirror for her take on a hall tree.

Color Wonders.

With a neutral palette as a foundation, pick a few hues that you want to pop and pull them in as accents, such as red textiles in the kitchen, orange and yellow flowers in the dining room, and green pillows in the living room.