STYLE ROOM – October 2012
by Penelope Daborn

Tucked into the corner of the property, right at the waterline, is a little cabin that my clients have decided to turn into a guest cottage. It’s been there quite a while, so all the wood on the inside—of which there is a lot—has an aged, golden glow. A wraparound porch hovers over crystalline water, and an ancient woodstove graces a corner, allowing the cabin to be useful through at least three seasons. Serenity and simplicity are what I’m striving for here, along with freshness in summer, coziness in spring and fall. A space where my clients can stretch out with a good book—or just look at the view—in peace and quiet. Or where guests can fall asleep listening to the lapping of the lake, and enjoy their morning coffee overlooking the water. We used a mix of light and dark finishes on the louvered doors (somewhat reminiscent of a boat) in the corner where we’re carving out a tiny powder room and closet. We chose a classic blue and white palette, which seems to adapt seamlessly to seasonal changes while allowing for extra “punches” of color (in this case, aqua) when the mood arises. To maximize space we decided on a sleep-sofa, designed for comfort and slipcovered so that the cream fabric is worry-free. Big throw pillows in a dramatic Brunschwig and Fils fabric lend color and impact. A sturdy papier mâché stool doubles as a side table. The styling of graceful outdoor “wicker” armchairs are a nod to the age and rusticity of the cottage, and will weather all seasons with no trouble—as will the glass-topped iron table and coordinating chairs, their pine cone motif a whimsical reference to Maine. A striped flat-weave wool rug adds softness and a somewhat “boating” air, reflected in traditional marine copper and brass light fixtures and by a pair of old painted oars hung on a wall. A reminder, perhaps, of the sweet picnic boat tethered to a nearby dock, waiting to make a leisurely exploration of the lake.

1) Wall Paint Color – Borrowed Light

Farrow & Ball

farrowandball.com

2) Newport Rug

Barrier Island Rugs

barrierislandrugs.com

3) PDL Custom Sleep Sofa, Fabricated by Ashley Cunningham

SK by Penelope Daborn

penelopedaborn.com

4) Nisiotiko Linen Throw Pillows

Brunschwig & Fils

Fabricated by Jeanette’s Window Design

5) Pine Tripod Table in Ivory Stone County Ironworks

stonecountyironworks.com

6) Chair

Stone County Ironworks

stonecountyironworks.com

7) Aunt Susan’s Stool in Aqua

Stray Dog Designs straydogdesigns.com

8) Classic Roman Shades in Sunwashed Linen (Jute Grass)

Hartmann & Forbes

hfshades.com

9) Seltzer Siphons

Portland Architectural Salvage

portlandsalvage.com

10) Rendering of Guest Cottage Doors

Penelope Daborn

penelopedaborn.com

11) Rendering of Guest Cottage Doors

Penelope Daborn

penelopedaborn.com

12) Oars

Traditional Marine Outfitters

traditionalmarine.com

13) Arbor Armchair in Seashell

Janus et Cie

janusetcie.com

Penelope Daborn Ltd. | 207-761-2711 | penelopedaborn.com