This California Cottage Is a Fairy Tale-Like Sanctuary

Inspired by a love of French farmhouse style, this homeowner breathed new life into her historic home.

Californian cottage kitchen
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Sunday Hendrickson

In addition to infusing the home with a breath of fresh air, Deena had to make a few improvements to the amenities. While the kitchen came with a number of updated features, including butcher block countertops, she opted to replace the shallow, narrow sink with a deeper model and give the entire room the same bright-white treatment.

Californian cottage bedroom
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Sunday Hendrickson

Upstairs, Deena’s attic bedroom, which was once dark and cave-like, can now be likened to a cozy, fairytale-esque sanctuary. New laminate flooring sporting a weathered finish replaced the old carpeting, and relaxed white furniture sets the scene for a tranquil respite. Details like the carved edge of the desk Deena brought with her from Santa Monica, California, are the finishing touches needed to make the space really feel special.

Californian cottage kitchen
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Sunday Hendrickson

Recently, Deena went through the process of having the farmhouse declared a historical landmark, one of the many ways she has tried to honor the home’s heritage. Throughout the design process, she strove to create a style that was “in keeping with what the bones of the house were,” she says. She accomplished that goal through her generous use of light tones and layered textures and, in the process, gave new life to a home that truly deserved it.

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