interiors: lake cottage day dreaming

So, the title is a little disingenuous. My dream cottage would be located on the ocean. Somehow "lake cottage" is a bit more evocative of a certain style, though. It's a little cozier than an oceanfront home: a little more collected, a little less nautical.

All of this daydreaming was inspired by a combination of Seattle's nearly ubiquitous drizzle that has now settled over the city AND Thom Filicia's New York lake house. I love Thom Filicia's palettes and collected feel, but sometimes the spaces feel a bit over accessorized (though he says he loves a spare look).  Here are my favorite rooms he created for his cozy lake house:

I love that these walls and chairs bring big design points to an otherwise sparse room. The upholstered walls create warmth, but Thom said he added them to muffle the raucous sounds of his loud dinner parties. But overall, I just love that jewel-toned blue. 

This fire pit feels totally at home for summer evenings or fall afternoons... Big Pemberton blankets for everyone and a steaming cup of hot cider... yes, please.

Now for some elements I would bring to the house. First, a cozy, tranquil bedroom. It is feminine for sure, but not overly so. I always love a big, fluffy duvet - it looks so welcoming (summer or fall), and keeping the look rather monochromatic reminds me of a posh hotel suite. That unfinished wall finishes the look for me, bringing the outdoors in, in a really polished way. 

Next, a bright, utilitarian kitchen. Cooking on vacation isn't the number one priority, and this kitchen houses the necessities. I love the pop of apple green inside the upper cabinets. It's something you might not do at home for fear you wouldn't like it for the long haul, but the whimsy works here.