whose warm, inviting appeal has captivated us over the centuries. I think the allure of cottage design lies in their simple, authentic charm and the honest values that come from living in the country among family and friends.

Underlying the cottage style is a utilitarian architecture that is typically small and cozy and scaled to human needs. Cottage owners have willingly let go of the many material possessions that necessitated larger houses.

What I love most about cottage design is that it never puts on airs. It’s never brash and never pretends to be something it’s not. If it’s life started out as a boathouse or a shed, it embraces its beginnings and celebrates its past, leaving its original character and features intact.

As E.M. Forester describes in his novel Howard’s End “a cottage is old and little and altogether delightful”. Wouldn’t you agree?