Summer Vibes
They say summer’s good for the soul. So, it’s no surprise that “cottage chic” is a recurring theme in my interior design work. Requests for endless summers are as common as glow-worms in July, translated into spaces that invite you to sit deep and come often. It’s worth the hours-long commute. Once you’re there, you might as well be a million miles away (cue the loons).
But when you can’t go to the lake, bring the lake to you! These warm-weather retreats and their lakeside locales have inspired countless interior design trends the world over. Regardless of your physical geography or the actual season, you too can enjoy the lazy, hazy days of summer, all year round. Here are my three effortless strategies for summer-inspired living.
Simplify your life. For many, summer means a return to nature, which happens to be a central theme of cottage living, for obvious reasons. Get back to basics with simple, unadorned silhouettes, down-to-earth details, and organic colours and materials evocative of a cool, coastal aesthetic. When I am designing with cottage style in mind I choose soft sandy tones, earthy browns and muted greens (some of which happen to be the 2022 Colour of the Year!), gentle blues and fresh whites. For finishes, seek out less polish and shine, and natural materials such as wood, stone and tile.
When furnishing your home, be simple and selective. In the case of “cottage chic,” less is more. Start by evaluating your existing stock of furniture and determine what you can still use, either in its current form or in an “upcycled” version of its former self. Get rid of anything that you no longer want or need. People often hold onto antiques and hand-me-downs Do yourself a favour – if you don’t love it, let it go. When shopping for new furniture, opt for multi-functional pieces that serve double-duty while freeing up valuable floor space.
Now, be sure to have some fun along the way. An authentic, cottage-style space can never be too stark or serious. Look for ways to infuse hits of colour and pattern into your décor, and make it “pop” with artwork, accessories, upholstery and area rugs. Layering rugs, pillows and throws is a great way to add style and warmth, and I love the uniquely “vintage” vibe. Choose organic upholstery and textiles such as linen, wool and blends. 
With having many cottage designs under my belt, I can attest that a coat of paint can go a long way. When designing cottages – whether actual, or homes inspired by – I often complement by organic materials choices with a nature-inspired colour palette. Whites, off-whites and soft creams are the perfect base for that relaxed, rustic style that’s so popular.
Embrace your social side. Another big draw to the cottage life – and style! – is the communal aspect of it. This is a place to spend time together, so ensure your space supports that lifestyle. If you’re renovating your home and dig that laid-back look, consider an open-concept floor plan that is conducive to gathering. If you’re redecorating, you can still achieve a communal vibe through furniture arrangement. Create “vignettes” that accommodate your unique pastimes and showcase your personality, bringing a level of customization and fun to your daily activities and interactions. A quiet reading corner for the bibliophile, a wine bar for the vintage connoisseur, or a games and hobby table for the puzzlers and puzzled in the house.
Summertime, and the livin’s easy… Always remember the main objective of the great escape to the cottage – relaxation. To that end, always be mindful of the level of maintenance required for upkeep. This applies to literally every decorating decision ahead, from building materials and fabrics and finishes. Are they easy to clean? Do they require regular upkeep? Are they durable? Now, temper every decision by asking yourself: does it say “come in and make yourself at home?” Perhaps that is the ultimate test in the quest for cottage style.
Ultimately, a lake-inspired aesthetic should leave you feeling rested, relaxed and removed from the daily grind. It has to look good, and perhaps more importantly, it has to feel right. Take time with your design and with your decorating decisions. You can’t rush true R&R! 
International Designer Laura Hay , Principal of LH Decor & Design Inc. brings over a decade of experience to her work in residential interiors . The growing boutique design firm is known for creating stylish, harmonious, livable environments and vacation homes in the GTA, Canada, United States and Bahamas. www.decoranddesign.ca @laurahay
