Details to Notice: A Colorful Cottage

Few things make my decorating heart happier than a small house with big style. Add lots of color and pattern to the mix, and I’m completely sold. This 1400-square-ft home recently featured in Southern Living is the perfect example. The owner, decorator Whitney McGregor, doesn’t waste an opportunity–or corner–when it comes to making an impact. I’m pointing out a few of the details to notice below. . .

• Painted doors! Love the little bit of color this adds to each of her rooms.
• A patterned tablecloth (or throw) is a nice way to add a punch to an entryway when you don’t want to add wallpaper.
• Easy table styling: one large vase with branches + stacks of books.
• Small art pieces look great stacked vertically.

• Think you can’t wallpaper a bigger space like a living room? I love how this pattern is small enough that it blends into a nice background.
• The rug is a neutralizing base for everything else going on–even though it still has a tone on tone pattern. (Looks very similar to the one I just bought for our own living room.)
• Love how she used a small corner sectional where most people would opt for a big chair in that spot.
• The whole fireplace situation is simple but works beautifully. Notice how she used one statement piece of art flanked by two small planters. She added some depth the room by painting the mantel a darker, neutral color.

• Using a darker color on all of the moulding adds so much depth and character to a small space. It also highlights the art wall, giving it more of a gallery feel.
• Another trick for opening up the room: she used a leaner mirror on one side of the room instead of placing a smaller mirror over the buffet.
• The velvet upholstery on the chairs instantly makes the room look richer.
• The big piece of art could be a DIY if you have the inclination, but placing a wall lamp right above it elevates the look.

• Floral wallpaper can feel totally fresh. Even a small piece of abstract art over the bed makes the whole space feel more modern.
• That little pop of red ribbon above the bed is so much fun.
• She kept everything else simple and classic: white bedding with trim, a small print lumbar pillow with matching shades and a solid, tailored skirt on the bedside table.
• Another classic mix in the bathroom with a touch of grasscloth on the walls and vintage mirror. She repeats the little bit of red here with the monograms and shades.

• Even if you don’t have a ton of space to play around with, you might have room to add a pretty fabric in the form of a shade or skirt.
• Color on the ceiling and a wall treatment like shiplap are unexpected touches in a functional spot like a laundry/mudroom.
• Consider painting an existing pendant light.

• She repeated the painted trim trick in the boy’s bedroom. Notice how she only painted the frame of the window.
• Pattern on the floor is perfect for kids’ rooms because it shows less wear and tear and adds a little playfulness.
• More floral pattern in the girl’s room made fresh by a crisp stripe on the wall, a colorful abstract painting and a bold monogrammed pillow. (Did you see that there’s a second floral print on the bed? It’s all about balance.)

And, this photo is just a bonus. Doesn’t every backyard shed need striped awnings?!

All images via Southern Living. Photography: Laurey W. Glenn