Deck the Halls - For The Holidays

December is here! Preparing for this time of year is always full of excitement + rewards as we get to reflect on all that has happened and share the holidays with the ones we love. Jack and I were counting down the days until our big reveal - where do we actually live if we have an airbnb?  We are so proud of how the cottage holiday decorations add to the magic and character of our home. We can’t wait for everyone to see the ‘winter wonderland’ created inside and share our love for the holidays with all we know.

To start the holiday season off right, we literally decked the halls. In every conceivable space – it shines – whether it be the iridescent snowflakes, the twinkle lights above the dining room, or the red ribbon reflecting the glow of the Christmas tree lights – magic is here if you just believe.

I especially love the theme this year, as I have thoughtfully incorporated reindeer throughout the cottage. There is something elegant and classic about these creatures and their contribution to bringing Santa’s sleigh to life.

Our cottage-style home built in 1932 has been the perfect place for us to live, here in Salt Lake City, and stemmed the idea of turning the upstairs living quarters into an airbnb dream. Because there is a full functioning basement apartment, it was easy to recreate our life in a smaller area + receive the opportunity to meet new individuals. It's the best of both worlds.

Design and Decorating Elements

Because Jack and I have very different design styles that fall under Victorian yet inviting and warm, the cottage airbnb reveal reflects creativity and well-executed themes relating back to some of the original character of our home. To capitalize on this style, I drew inspiration from the textures and colors and unexpected wood elements already established. Preserving as much of the home’s unique architecture as possible, we restored the original hardwood floors, basement apartment, and embraced the arched doorways within the entryway.

Most of the holiday decor has been collected over the years; however, we were inspired and gathered recent accent pieces from TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Home Goods. I would highly recommend visiting your local TJ Maxx, Marshalls, or Homegoods to find unique pieces of decor to add to your home. The holiday garland, supplies for the dining room chandelier, and frosted trees on the kitchen island can be found at Michaels. I love adding special touches throughout the cottage and found antiques to add the perfect amount of character. Similar antiques can be found and purchased at Garner Antiques, in Bountiful, Utah.

Living room + Entry

Dark red accent chairs and pillows contrast against the original white plaster walls. The entire space feels open and inviting; making it perfect for any holiday gathering. 

Shop: Standing or Laying Silver Deer (pictured on coffee table), Pier 1 Imports; Gold Leaf Pine Cones, Seasons by David

Dining Room

This little nook is the perfect place for holiday meals + cozy enough to gather with the ones you love. The dining room is the room bringing the entire courage together this holiday season through complementary colors and tying in the theme of reindeer.

Shop: Reindeer Martini Glasses, Pottery Barn; April Cornell Merry Tablecloth - Black, April Cornell; Royal Stafford Christmas Village Salad Plates, Amazon.

Kitchen

The kitchen is small but connects the entire house - as it is the heart of the cottage. With this unique island which also functions as a mini bar helps create more seating and prep surface.

Shop: Pottery, Potterboy Ben Behunin

Bedrooms

Furnished bedrooms with either a queen or full sized bed, touched with classic and simple holiday decor continues throughout the cottage.

Shop: Yuletide Holiday Luxury Quilt (Queen), SteinMart; Moritz Medallion Luxury Quilt Collection (Full), SteinMart.

Bathroom

Black and creme accents + the original porcelain over cast iron tub make for the perfect guest bathroom.

Craft cottage

The perfect out building to inspire creatives and bring their ideas to life. This space is equipped with all supplies and necessities to execute any craft, art, or sewing project.

Exterior

The exterior of the cottage is easily recognized by the contrasting color of the exterior paint and the color of the door - we love the purple door. Ornamental accents change based on the season, which only add to the overall appearance of the cottage.

Shop: Red Woodchip Wreath, SteinMart

We hope you enjoyed the tour and can't wait for you to book your stay with 3 Squares Cottage.