Come along to see how an Ilinois couple transformed a non-descipt 825 square foot cottage into a most charming home. This darling front entrance didn’t always look that good. Take a look at the before and after photos to see what Mickie and John Johnson did to make this 1925 home their very own, starting with white siding and the cedar on the gable that not only adds curb appeal but also a touch of rustic charm.
“When we purchased the cottage 8 years ago John wasn't sold on the idea because it was pretty run down, sat empty for 3 years and needed a lot of TLC but I instantly saw the potential.” Mickie recalls. “However we did buy it and began to demo everything from flooring to countertops and slowly started to rebuild room by room.”
As you can plainly see the living room was rather bland but look at the next photos to see how Mickey and John made it the coziest of cocoons!
Come on in! Take note of the fabulous textures from the wood and fabrics from the moment you enter the fairytale cottage.
Mickie notes “I believe when you paint your interior walls white or at least on the lighter side, it gives the feeling of being larger and less closed in. I also use vintage mirrors. Vintage mirrors hung in a small hallway can give the illusion of felling much wider then it really is.”
“Our style is Cottage/Farmhouse. It's very relaxed cozy with a warm lived-in aesthetic. Think comfy slipcovered furniture, eclectic flea market finds, and a mix of weathered and textural pieces and architectural salvage items too.” Mickie explains.
“Storage is a big issue living in a small cottage.” Mickie explains. “I like to add big statement pieces that look beautiful but also have a purpose. Large cabinets are perfect for just about anything you need to tuck away such as bath towels and sheets.” Case in point this cool sideboard that underwent a major from-drab-to-fabulous makeover! Look at the ‘before’ photo that follows….
Mickie truly doesn’t shy away from incorporating large items to anchor rooms, like this great piece that provides storage in the lower portion and hides the TV in the upper one,
The dated kitchen is another great example of what hardwork and vision can accomplish. First, the ‘before” (yikes!)
And after: BRAVO!!
“When I looked at the tiny kitchen I knew it needed a vintage farmhouse sink so I started looking around online and antique shops and finally found a vintage sink. Every time I walk in the kitchen it just puts a smile on my face.” Mickie says.
These 2 photos show the dining room now but scroll down to see the “before” photo. Mickie and John certainly have a knack for for designing and decorating!
The dining room before the couple worked their magic!!
In every room the neutral theme is punctuate with the warmth and glow of natural wood and tactile elements.
An old iron board announces a laundry room cleverly concealed behind a vintage door hung from a rod for easy sliding without taking space in the small hallway while open.
The tiny bathroom boasts a claw foot tube that Mickie painted black for contrast. A burlap ‘sleeve’ conceals the chandelier cord and unites with the natural tone of the basket and mirror frames.
Mickie’s fondness for mirrors and fireplaces (and a lot of other things!!) is evident through the cottage.
There is nothing like a classic floor mirror leaning against a wall, especially when that wall is brick (though this one is actually a great wallpaper!)
Mickey and John have also taken their skills and talents outside to endow their garden shed with the same care and love they have applied to their cottage.
No doubt you want to see more of this gem of a cottage and have a lot of questions so make sure to go to https://www.instagram.com/cottageonmainst and follow Mickie. And don’t forget to say “woof woof” to Charlie, the family adorable 17 years old rescue doxiepoo. This beautiful tiny doggie is a perfect match for this beautiful tiny cottage. Whats’ not to LOVE!!!!
(All photos and styling by Mickie Johnson @cottageonmainst)
Thank you Mickie, John AND Charlie for inviting us into your lovely home. XOXOXOXO