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how to: add style to your home

Is your home just crying for a makeover? Whether you're looking to do a total redecorating job, need help merging your styles, or just want to give a room a little pick-me-up, you're in the right place with our expert decorating advice. Choosing your decor style can be tricky territory for newlyweds, especially if you've never lived together and your home styles aren't entirely in sync. But even if you've been sharing your space for a while, choosing your decor style means incorporating both of your needs. So where to begin? If you're starting from scratch or looking to redecorate, you need to think big. Luckily, we've got expert decorating advice on key rooms, from 5 tips for a luxurious living room to 6 secrets for a sexy bedroom. Have a question about more specific home styles? You'll find stylish solutions to all your questions, from best bedding options to doing over your bathroom. Or do you just want ideas for easy (and inexpensive!) decor fixes? Spice up your living space with our tips on budget bedroom makeovers, easy decor tricks, and displaying photos and art. We've also tracked down fabulous decor finds to suit all different home styles, including shabby-chic favorites, decor picks on a budget, and colorful kitchen accents. And check out style how-tos on everything from dressing up your mantel and arranging your coffee table with flair to creating beautiful blooming arrangements and using feng shui. With our expert decorating advice, choosing your decor style is simple.

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How to Nail Cottage Decor

Worn, rustic and -- most importantly -- comfy items are the key to a cozy cottage home. Here's how.

Photo: Jessica Helgerson

Want to create a comfy cottage-style home (even if you live in the city)? Just follow these simple steps:

  • Choose a nautical color palette of blues and whites.
  • Look for wicker, rattan, or metal garden furniture -- we’re talking yard sale items with chipping paint. Think: the most relaxing sun porch ever (no porch or sun necessary).
  • Get upholstered furniture slipcovered in casual white cotton duck fabric. It’s washable and will give even formal pieces a laid-back, casual look.
  • Rocking chairs, rocking chairs, rocking chairs. Every cottage needs a few.
  • Go for a rustic pine or reclaimed wood table, and consider a maple butcher block countertop for the kitchen.
  • Feel like painting the floors? Go for it. Then lay down sisal and braided rugs on top.

Nestpert: Minnesota designer Jay Nuhring, author of the blog "Loving What You Have".

-- The Nest Editors

May 11, 2010

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