1891 Cottage Summer Home Ideas. Discover numerous inexpensive ways to add comfortable summer style to your home, inspired by my 1891 house transformation.
1891 Cottage Summer Home Ideas: Infusing Casual Charm into Your Summer Home
Welcome to my 1891 summer home tour! This year, I’ve been hard at work adding soft, casual charm to our historic home. I’m thrilled to share some easy, yet impactful, updates that can help you bring a fresh, summery feel to your own space.
Entryway Elegance
Our little entryway room received a delightful makeover over the weekend. New wallpaper with a subtle floral pattern now graces the walls, setting a welcoming tone right from the entrance. I also introduced some fantastic shoe cubbies that look like a stylish cabinet.
These cubbies are a game-changer, especially since we recently implemented a “no shoes” rule to protect our new runner up the stairs. Guests can conveniently stash their shoes, keeping the entryway tidy and organized. I have included a shopping list at the end of the tour with the items I used!
Formal Dining Room Transformation
One of the most exciting changes was swapping my office for a formal dining room in the front room. This switch has truly elevated the space. I refinished our dining table with a gorgeous wood paint that gave it a stunning update, perfectly complementing our new marble-topped buffet and an elegant arched curio cabinet.
A faux flower arrangement now adorns the buffet, adding a burst of summer color and charm.
Cozy Kitchen Nook
In the kitchen nook, I opted for a smaller vintage oval table paired with soft and cozy boucle chairs. To enhance the bench, I added a hanging fabric backrest, which brings a touch of cottage charm.
This backrest, hung with a beautiful brass curtain rod, is not only comfortable but also visually appealing. The bench was upholstered with matching material, creating a cohesive and inviting look. I added a soft textured runner to the table for Summer!
Kitchen Charm
In the kitchen, I infused summer charm with several delightful touches. A butterfly wreath now hangs over our stove, bringing a whimsical, airy feel to the space. To add a bit of sparkle, I placed disco balls on our open shelves, which catch the light beautifully and add a playful touch.
By the kitchen sink, I created a DIY marble pedestal that holds stylish containers for hand soap, lotion, and a scrub brush, blending functionality with elegance. Additionally, fresh flowers in the back pantry bring a burst of color and a touch of nature indoors, enhancing the overall summery vibe.
Family Room Refresh
Our family room also received a summer refresh. I replaced our old couch with a sectional that’s perfect for naps and provides ample seating. The mantel now features a whimsical butterfly theme with a paper butterfly wreath, adding a lighthearted and airy feel to the room.
Spiral Staircase Summer Plant Haven
As I mentioned, we recently had a light-colored tand and white runner installed on our staircase. I love the way the runner makes the space seem so light and summery!
At the top of the staircase is a light-filled landing where I hung a vintage plate rack. My plants love this spot!
Bedroom Bliss
In the bedroom, I aimed to create a serene and inviting atmosphere. Fresh flowers on the dresser add a touch of natural beauty and a pleasant fragrance. Above the bed, I hung a spring wreath, which brings an element of seasonal charm to the room. A pink coverlet on the bed not only enhances the cozy feel but also adds a soft, summery pop of color, making the space feel refreshed and tranquil.
Attic Office and Hangout Space
One of the most ambitious projects was moving my office to the attic. This large room has been transformed with planked walls for architectural interest, painted white to brighten the space. I divided the room into two sections: one for my office and the other as a hangout space with the couch from downstairs and a comfy ottoman.
My Dream Box craft storage unit made the trip upstairs, and I couldn’t be happier. It houses all my project supplies, keeping everything organized. I also added an adjustable standing desk, which I love. It allows me to sit or stand while working, and I even have a walking pad for some light exercise. A charming scallop lamp adds a cute touch to the desk area.
The couch in front of my desk helps define the two spaces, and I placed a tray on the ottoman to hold drinks. A thrifted zebra plant holder adds a whimsical touch. This setup is perfect for working while having my family nearby. A pink fridge and a microwave ensure we have snacks handy, making the attic a functional and fun space. And it’s my cats favorite spot too!!
Backyard Bliss
Our backyard is now a summer haven. I added a couple of new rugs to our eating and lounging areas, creating defined, cozy spots for relaxation. One of my favorite DIY projects is the thrifted bundt cake pan planter, which fits perfectly around our outdoor umbrella. It’s an easy and creative way to add greenery to our outdoor space.
Beautiful 2024 Summer Home Tours
I’m so excited to join friends who are also sharing their summer home tours! Each home is filled with beautiful summer ideas that can inspire you to bring a fresh, casual charm to your own space.
Scroll down to see all of their stunning summer transformations, and I hope my updates have given you some inspiration for your own home. Whether you’re looking to make small changes or embark on bigger projects, infusing your home with summer vibes can be both fun and rewarding.
Summer Home and Garden Tour – Celebrate and Decorate
1891 Cottage Summer Home Ideas – Tatertots and Jello
Summer Garden Tour – Southern Alabama – Zone 8B – Happily Ever After Etc.
California Backyard Living Outdoor Home and Garden Tour – WM Design House
10 Inspiring Summer Home Tour Decor Ideas – Craft Klatch
Welcome Home Summer Traditions Kids Love to Come Home to – White Arrows Home
Ultimate Summer Decor Ideas Home Tour and DIY Inspirations – Chas’ Crazy Creations
Gathered and Found Summer Screen Porch Tour – Red Cottage Chronicles
1891 Avenues Cottage Home Tour Shopping Links
I’m excited to share some of my favorite finds that helped transform our 1891 home into a summer haven. Below are shopping links to some of the key items I used:
Entryway
- Entryway Wallpaper:
- Kitchen Plaid Stitched Table Runner
- Shoe Cabinet
Dining Room
Kitchen
- Boucle Chairs
- Brass Curtain Rod
- Tiered Tray
- Leopard Toaster
- Swoop Arm Chandelier
- DIY Marble Pedestal Tutorial
- Black Shoe Cabinets
Family Room
Bedroom
Office/Hang Out Room
- DreamBox – Use Code “TATERTOTS” for a Discount!
- Adjustable Standing Desk
- Scallop Desk Lamp
- Office Chair
- Pink Fridge
- Wooden Ottoman Tray
Outdoor Patio
I hope these links help you find the perfect pieces to bring casual summer charm to your own home. Happy shopping and decorating!
Thank you for joining me on this tour of our 1891 home. Happy decorating, and enjoy your summer!
xoxo
Jade Dolan says
Loved the charming updates! Your entryway and dining room transformations are truly inspiring—so much summer elegance!
Jen says
Thank you jade!
xoxo
Betsy says
Jen I love your summer home tour! The rooms are so bright and cheery… I especially adore all the pops of pink (that rug under the dining room table?!) plus is that a gomphrena wreath on the front door! Thanks for sharing!
Jen says
Thank you Betsy! That means so much to me!
xoxo
Chas - Chas' Crazy Creations says
Your place is beautiful. I love your colors, and really enjoyed seeing how you implemented the pops of color. Just the little touches of the sunflowers, citrus fruit, etc make a big impact. Wonderful hopping with you!
Andrea says
What a fun colorful home you have. I love so many things. You have multiple shoe/narrow storage cabinets. I’m looking for one. Are they upcycled IKEA? or something different. And you’ve given me so many ideas for my outdoor pergola area. So great to find your site on the tour.
Jen says
Hi Andrea!
Thanks for stopping by!! Yes! I love those shoe cabinets! I have them in our back and front entries! I have links to them at the bottom of the post. They are super affordable from Amazon 🙂
xoxo
wendy233 says
Jen, your home looks fantastic for the summer. I love all of the wallpaper and the gorgeous runner up your stairs. So many beautiful spaces in your home.
Jen says
Thanks Wendy!!
I loved your home tour. Your yard is incredible! Such a fun tour!
xoxo
Mona says
Jen – I love your home! It’s beautiful and cozy! I can imagine sipping tea in your kitchen!
Mona
Jen says
Hi Mona!
Thanks for stopping by! I would love to have you come by and have tea. That would be so fun!
xoxo
Chloe Crabtree says
How cheery and welcoming your home looks for summertime! I love your style! My favorite things are your rugs and your wallpaper selections! Those shoe storage cabinets are brilliant! I need to purchase some of those for my daughter’s home! Thank you so much for joining in our Summer Home and Garden Hop! Have a wonderful summer!
Jen says
Hi Chloe!
Thanks for putting this fun home tour together. It was so fun seeing everyone’s summer ideas. I loved your summer home!
xoxo