Decorating & Design
May 19, 2020
How To Bring The Cottage To Your City Backyard
Senior interiors director Stacy Begg shares her tips for getting a cottage look in your urban oasis.
The call of cottage country happens every summer for many of us, but this year, it might be difficult to actually get there. What is the draw of fleeing urban life? For me, it is a slower way of life, fresh air, open spaces and simple pleasures. Something I look forward to each summer is sitting on the lawn at my cottage with a gin and tonic in hand, overlooking the lake and chatting with one of my siblings as our children play nearby. It’s as simple as that — just taking the time to relax and connect with the people you love. As much as I enjoy the cottage lifestyle, this can be done anywhere — including the city. Here are a few design ideas for bringing the cottage feel home to the city. But first: pour yourself a drink, and sit back and relax!
Go big with plants to get the country vibe. Greenery goes a long way when trying to remove yourself from the concrete jungle, and this is especially true for condo dwellers. This balcony has a more tropical cottage vibe, where large palm leaves offer plenty of privacy.
Invest in some simple cottage furniture. Set up some Muskoka chairs camp fire-style (social distanced of course), and have some bug spray on hand for when it gets dark and the mosquitos come out.
Wow with wicker. Much like Muskoka chairs, wicker chairs can transport you to a seaside cottage or lakeside retreat. Spray paint them white for a more nautical feel, and pair with big leafy ferns for a dose of East Coast charm.
Create a casual dining nook. Using candle light and a simple tablecloth (think: ticking stripe or linen), this outdoor eating area feels like you’re dining on the dock. Spread out a blanket if a table is not available.
Adorn your table with simple vessels filled with wild flowers. Use recycled jars and bottles, and purchase or pick simple summer flowers, like daisies, Queen Anne’s lace or Black-eyed Susans for a relaxed cottage feel.
Add a bohemian-inspired hammock. Hang them between two trees or purchase a sleek hammock stand. Read and nap while dreaming of the cottage — plus, it offers hours of entertainment for kids, too.
Lounge al fresco with an outdoor living and dining room. For an urban-meets-cottage feel, draw inspiration from designer Mazen El-Abdallah’s 225-square-foot space.
Let the kids feel like they’re at the cottage, too. Set-up a play tent or real camping tent, so they can get in on the action. Head to a park, if you don’t have enough space in your own backyard. Fair warning: this may lead to actual camping or sleeping outside.
Hang a sheet or awning for an airy beachy feel. This breezy look will make you feel like you’re on vacation in your own backyard. Bonus: it provides protection from sun rays.
Convert your mini shed or garage into a seasonal retreat. Furnish it with simple chairs and a table, or more elaborately with a daybed, throw cushions and cocktail tables.