Think Vacation When Decorating Weekend Place

Fri., Aug. 6, 1999

Karol V. Menzie The Baltimore

Whether your weekend place is a sleek condo in a resort high-rise, a Victorian cottage at the beach or a rustic mountain cabin, you can decorate it to amplify the notion of being “away” from home. Playful yet soothing is the goal.

Whether it’s paint, wallpaper, furniture, fans or accessories, every touch can contribute to vacation decor. Here are some suggestions from “Cottage Style,” from Better Homes and Gardens Books, edited by Denise L. Caringer (Meredith, 1998, $29.95).

Paint walls in cool sherbet colors and paint the woodwork a crisp white. Or use a country-style wallpaper, in simple stripes or cheerful florals.

Keep the floors fairly simple - brick, tile and polished wood contribute to airiness of the space and are easy to clean if sand or pine needles are nearby. Use throw rugs, rag rugs, needlepoint rugs or floor cloths for color and comfort.

Decorate walls with mirrors, and with items made of natural materials, such as baskets or grapevine wreaths.

Architectural artifacts such as column capitals, newel posts and finials, and gingerbread trim, make sturdy and not-so-serious tables, pedestals and accents.

Keep the furniture light as well, by using wicker or rattan or canvas. If you have upholstered pieces, you might want to cover them with fabric that can be easily washed and dried.

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