Cottage Style offers tips for boosting curb appeal, fresh ideas for displaying antiques, and plenty of inspiration for brightening any space—no matter the square footage. The personalized interiors of these charming cottages tell their homeowners' stories. Whether it's a suburban bungalow, a seaside cottage, or a forest-dwelling cabin, the romantic houses gracing this issue's pages are lovingly decorated to be character-rich, collected over time, and inviting to all.
Better Homes and Gardens
From the Editors
Wood Working • Consider this a master class in adding color that works with your wood trim, floors, and furnishings—whether you want to play up the wood or tone it down.
Blue-Sky Thinking • A clever use of space, plenty of hometown support, and gallons of blue paint made it possible for this young couple to remake a little cottage into their dream home.
Happy Little Camper • A 1930s fish camp cabin gets a second life, reprising its most lovable characteristics—this time with modern updates built to last.
Building On Memories • A new lakeside cottage in Glenn, Michigan, pays homage to family history while embracing modern living.
Taking It Easy • Sometimes with a reno, slow and steady wins the race—as proved by this home where cheerful personal touches abound.
Diamond in the Rough • This down-on-its luck Spanish-style bungalow was saved by a team who could see its bright future.
New Meets Nostalgic • A Georgia family took their character cues from the past when they built their new farmhouse on family land.
From First to Forever • It was supposed to be a starter home. But 14 years later, it’s filled with DIY sweat equity and family memories.
Perfect Storm • The cultivated elements of this 1900 Nantucket cottage conjure visions of storied characters and shifting seas.
Endless Summer • A family preserves the style of their 1894 summer cottage on the Jersey Shore with a renovation designed to marry timeless charm and modern ease.
Stylishly Simple • A Texas designer leans into the adage that “less is more” to craft a young family’s lakefront retreat.
Scene Stealer • This California home packs electric personality into a small footprint by mixing rich patterns and muted primary colors.
Soft Focus • High style, high comfort. With a serene palette and plenty of texture, this remodel shows off the best of both worlds.
Nature Rules