Many of us must live in the city for work, school or to be near family. Meanwhile, we dream of a simpler life in the country. While our dream may not take fruition until retirement, we can make small changes to our urban homes, making them feel like a country cottage.
City homes are typically smaller and cramped. Your home may have a small yard or be uncomfortably close to your neighbors. Adding simple accents such as wooden venetian blinds can change the look and feel of your urban home.
Picture the homes that you see in old movies. They do not have flashy colors or edgy light fixtures. To get that cottage look, choose real wood furniture, with a natural stain. Shop antique or second hand stores for rustic-looking tables and chairs. You can easily refinish tables and reupholster chairs to give them a new life.
A staple of every cottage is the wood-burning fireplace. These are not necessarily practical in a modern urban home. A great alternative that still gives you the same look is a natural gas fireplace. Gas fireplaces can heat large spaces at a fraction of the cost of electric heating. A gas fireplace is a green way of heating your home, yet still retains an authentic cottage look. Select a large, cozy rug with neutral colors to sit in front of the fireplace and add character to the room.
Decorate your cottage-inspired home with family photos and artwork. Choose elegant and classic frames. Line wooden bookshelves with old books.
Nothing quite compliments a cottage home like lace accents. The bedspread is the best place to add lace pillows or a duvet, however, you could also add curtains with subtle lace on it in the bedroom. It is easy to go overboard with lace, so it's best to stick with one lace-lined item per room.
Turning your city home into a zen-like living space is relatively easy. It is important to escape the stresses of daily life when you enter your home. These country-inspired changes might just turn your house into a much needed escape from your busy day.