Grounded in simplicity with an evident fixation on neutral tones, this New England cottage in Connecticut finds its identity by striking a balance between Scandinavian design, the absence of adornment and the effortlessness of laid-back living.
Owned by a screenwriter, producer and best selling author, this modern guest cottage is set high on a hill upon a majestic compound in Ridgefield, Connecticut on the East Coast of the United States, separated from the 622-square-meter main house. Creating an uncluttered atmosphere was fundamental for SISSY+MARLEY Interiors, founded and led by Chelsea Reale and Diana Rice. With backgrounds in fashion and design, Chelsea and Diana took into account every detail in this project, where a sophisticated and well-balanced neutral palette was used. The pair strategically combined textures and metals to create an inviting atmosphere that blurs the line between a family home and a contemporary art gallery.
The cottage is a mix of New England architecture with high ceilings and open spaces along with Scandinavian-style simplicity, minimalism and functionality. ‘We fell in love with this little cottage when we first saw it,’ remember Reale and Rice. ‘The bones were there but the space lacked character. We knew that with some white paint, handpicked pieces, small upgrades and a lot of love, we could bring it to life again.’
A high-contrast, black and white palette thematically runs throughout the entirety of the home, which includes crisp white walls, painted floors, framed black windows and the use of shiplap cladding to brighten this carefully curated space. ‘We kept the materials very simple to create a chic space without spending a lot,’ the interior designers add.
The meditative open space with the living room and the dining area is the heart of the cottage and features design pieces such as a Klassik Studio sofa, a coffee table by Pinch London and two lounge Easy Chairs by Carl Hansonn, while the Armadillo + Co Rug adds texture and warmth to the space. The charming staircase connects this area with the bedroom situated on the mezzanine.
The lack of visual noise is achieved through the loft-style, open plan layout with high ceilings alongside the motif of straight lines and calming tones, which characterise this Connecticut home. This reveals an unmistakably tranquil atmosphere that’s free from clutter or unnecessary over-the-topness, making for the perfect, low-maintenance getaway for friends and family.
Photos: Marco Ricca (Instagram @marcoriccastudio)
Interior Design: SISSY+MARLEY Interiors www.sissyandmarley.com
Instagram @sissyandmarleyinteriors
Words by Shai Rama
