Christmas on the Coast

I love cottage homes. Especially, cottages that are Warm, Welcoming, and Inspiring. So, I thought it would be fun to share three of them during the week before Christmas. And, since it’s Christmas time, and I’m Marcia… we can begin with mine! (giggle) Of course the truth is the last two cottages are so wonderfully special, there’s no way I want to follow either one. (grin)

So, get comfortable, and join me for a peek into three special, and cozy cottages on the Oregon coast.

My cottage was built in 1946, and is a beach cottage. It is located 1/8 of a mIle from the water. Very simple, and approximately 1,050 sq. ft. It has a living room, dining room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and loft. There’s a shed in the backyard that has been turned into a “Folly” My favorite thing about living in this cottage is that daily it reminds me that happiness can be found in the small simple pleasures of life.

okay, so what do you say we head on over to Lani’s cottage now. Be prepared for falling in love.

This cottage known as “Shoe Box Cottage” was built in 1979.

The home has a Nantucket appeal. All of the outside work was done by Lani. Yes,  shingles, fence, and all. I took these photos just recently, and the weather wasn’t the greatest to show all the garden. This cottage reflects the homeowner,  and her passion for creating a beautiful home.

Let’s go inside!

Many items in the cottage have been creatively re~furbished.

Before Lani retired she was a stylist for the movie industry in California. Yep….she definitely has the knack.

The slipcovers were sewn by Lani, who btw is now owner of “Patina”. A small business which she creates all sorts of slipcovers for her clients.

Lani has many clients who order her one of a kind slipcovers.

There are many stories to be told about our beautiful treasure finds.

For instance this piece is full of history. I’m thinking I might need to come back in the Spring for another detailed tour. (wink)

The two pieces above were made by Lani. A bird, and mouse. Don’t you just love them! You can see how creative my friend is. (Sorry about the reflection, the lighting outside was not cooperating) one of Lani’s favorite things about her home is the beadwork “she” put in the dining area.

The home has a very open feel, and seems much larger than it’s 1,049 sq. ft.

It certainly helps having an eye to visualize how things should be.

Lani’s goal  has been to transform the ranch style into a cottage style.

One room, project, and detail at a time.

Being an extraordinary talented lady with style, and flair, there is no doubt that she has accomplished this.

Alrighty, let’s head on out for our last cottage. (I’m thinking that the music might have stopped. If so, just scroll on up, click, and then scroll down again.)

Cottage number 3, “Wind Song Cottage” belongs to my other friend Allegra.

She told me it got it’s name from the fact that when the upstairs windows are open and the wind is blowing it sounds like someone is playing the flute. A special thing about the home for Allegra, is it’s soulfulness.

This home has a commanding view of Oregon’s magnificient coastline.

Come on let’s take a peek. I’m pretty sure she won’t mind.

This cottage is also very Nantucket like. swoon.

It’s approximately 2,100 sq. ft. and sits on 1/3 acre. (I think)

Between her and Lani they were responsible for getting me situated here on the coast.

God of the universe has a great sense of humor.

I got rid of most of my earthly things before I moved from California, and then somehow I met these two dynamic gals who provided guidance, hard work, and the furniture for me. I’m still trying to keep my life simple.

However, I must admit when you have new friends that are decor inspired…

Well, let’s just say… something’s got to give. (wink)

I hope you enjoyed touring these three cottages, and perhaps even got a little inspired for something creative in your own nest. No need to go out and purchase anything.

Walk around your home, and see how you can re-use, and re-purpose an item. Just recently I met a few other ladies that suggested a monthly get-together, where they bring items they no longer want/use. These items go on a table, and are up for grabs. Trust me that’s where the fun begins.

Happy Christmas week!