Cottage-Style Decorating: 16 Fresh + Simple Design Ideas

One of the most charming aspects of cottage living is its natural, simplistic and bare-boned style. Rather than cover the small guesthouse walls in artwork, designer Sarah Richardson wanted to showcase the architectural beauty of the salvaged pine boards on their own. The little imperfections and discolorations of the boards create an earthy, distressed look that provides the perfect backdrop to the crisp, white headboard and nightstand.

A mix of oyster shell, taupe and gray make for the perfect color palette for cottage-style living. When combined, these hues are fresh, natural and beautifully vibrant. Designer Brooke Giannetti added wood-beamed vaulted ceilings to further expand her already spacious master bedroom retreat. By sweeping a soft, white coat of paint across the walls and ceilings, the room appears open and refreshed.

One of the key elements to cottage-style decor is distressed and weathered furnishings. Although scouring flea markets, yard sales, thrift stores, estate sales and auctions to find a stunning piece of furniture for an amazing price may be exciting, don't look over a piece you may already have right in front of you. The power of a sanding block can work wonders if you just want to rough up the edges a little and add some character and style. For a generations-old look, you'll need a few more materials and a little more time, but the finished product is well worth the effort. Image courtesy of Layla Palmer

Everyone knows the saying: opposites attract. The same is true in decor, too. You should always achieve some sort of balance by marrying opposites, whether it's glossy and muted or contemporary and antique. Designer Sarah Richardson wanted to interrupt the mix of traditional and well-dressed dishware, fixtures and furnishings in this country-cottage dining room by surrounding the table with ultra-casual, rustic wicker chairs. The space feels how a cottage space should — perfectly at ease but always beautiful.