Owning a cottage gives you a second home where you can rest and relax whenever you want. You can also rent it out when you’re not using it and make passive income from it. In either case, you need to keep it in good shape to retain its value down the road.
A cottage makeover once in a while is a good idea, and if you can do it without spending a lot of time, effort, and money, so much the better.
Here are six decor revamp ideas you can try to spruce up your vacation home on a budget.
Invest in removable wallpaper
Rather than spend a fortune on expensive wall coverings, opt for removable wallpaper instead. It’s easy to put up, often without even pulling off any old wallpaper, and this is a DIY project that requires little effort.
Peel-and-stick wallpaper is one of several ways you can save a lot yet dress up the walls with the latest design trends.
Create multiple spaces with smart sectioning
While space is often a constraint for small cottages, you can create multiple sections in the rooms. Screens and dividers create an illusion of space and add functionality.
You can divide the living room into a sitting area and dining area with a sliding screen. Adding one to the bedroom creates a dedicated space for storage and dressing.
If you prefer to keep an open concept instead, you can define sections of a room using area rugs.
Warm it up
Consider warming up the ambience of your cottage with some simple ideas. You can install a dark wood electric fireplace in the living area to create a cosy look without the cost and maintenance of a traditional fireplace.
Add to the ambience with other wood accents, area rugs and textures such as curtains.
Let in natural light
Since it’s a cottage, there’s a natural connection to the outdoors. Emphasize that by letting in as much natural light as possible, which also minimizes the need for costly light fixtures. Keep the windows as open as possible, arrange furniture to maximize the natural light and let the rest of your lighting take a back seat. Of course, you’ll need light at night, but look for budget-friendly options.
Bring in some green
Living greenery is a great addition to make you or your guests feel at home, so bringing in some greens should be next on your decor revamp checklist. Pick low-maintenance indoor plants that can survive with minimal care. The ambience will be a lot more appealing and the indoor air will be fresh and healthier. Just remember to take the plants home when you close the cottage for the winter.
Minimize the knick-knacks
While it might be nice to have mementos and other treasured items at the cottage for yourself, if you’re also looking to rent out the place, keep them to a minimum. In fact, keep any clutter to a minimum to make the cottage feel as welcoming as possible. There’s a difference between a homey, inviting space and one that’s just too full of stuff.
Giving your cottage a makeover need not be a burden on your pocket. Doing these little things can make your place more beautiful, functional and welcoming.
