Step Inside This Family's North Carolina Cottage That Masters the Art of Color
This North Carolina mountain cottage is a testament to the power of color and whimsy in interior design. Elizabeth and Alex Brooks have transformed their 1990s bungalow into a vibrant, cohesive space that reflects their family's unique style. With a distinct color palette and a playful approach to design, they've created a home that is both functional and filled with joy.
The couple's signature style, which they affectionately call "silly goose style," is characterized by subtle, muddy colors and wood tones. This approach was inspired by a painting by Liz Wiesel hung in the kitchen. Alex explains that they wanted to move away from the typical bright, bold colors often associated with children's spaces.
Their journey began with a simple request from their son Felix, who loved the poppy hues in his and his brother's bedrooms. Elizabeth took the lead on the color scheme, experimenting with different shades and tones using Canva, a free graphic design program. She carefully curated a six-color palette, including mustard yellow, shades of blue, red, pink, and white, to create a fun and elevated atmosphere.
The key to their success lies in starting small and gradually layering in color. Alex suggests using sample cans for a low-barrier entry, allowing for quick accents without committing to an entire room. Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of picking colors that work well together and using them throughout the house.
One of the standout features is the dining room, where wood elements and spirited colors create a balanced and whimsical atmosphere. Elizabeth's attention to detail is evident in the repurposing and repainting of the walls, transforming a mauve-brown color to Farrow & Ball Matchstick. The breakfast nook, designed by Alex, showcases his engineering background with a custom-built frame for the TV and a playful gallery wall.
The butler's pantry is another impressive addition, created by Alex using salvaged windows from a previous renovation. It serves as a functional space for snacks, non-perishables, and a coffee station, showcasing the couple's creativity and resourcefulness.
Upstairs, the cottage becomes a masterclass in color and pattern mixing, particularly in the boys' bedrooms. Felix's room features a checkered mural and kitschy decor, while Ansel's room showcases metal beds painted in Farrow & Ball Romesco against a blue patterned wallpaper. Elizabeth's favorite motifs, such as gingham, are incorporated into the bedspreads and rug, creating a cohesive and playful atmosphere.
The couple's involvement in their children's design decisions is notable, with Felix and Ansel even knowing the names of their parents' go-to paint colors. This hands-on approach adds a personal touch to the home, making it a true reflection of their family's personality and style.
In conclusion, the Brooks family's North Carolina cottage is a testament to the power of color, whimsy, and collaboration in interior design. Their "silly goose style" has transformed a 1990s bungalow into a vibrant, functional, and joyful home that showcases their unique sense of style and creativity.
