The Perfect Cottage

A 600-square-foot custom guest house reimagined through a complete interior transformation. Though intimate in scale, every surface was thoughtfully unified to create a cohesive architectural envelope.

Beginning with raw white oak cabinetry, Shauna applied a cerused finish that established the tonal direction for the space. From there, all remaining woodwork — previously white painted beams, MDF doors, and dark pine windows — was meticulously wood grained and faux finished to unify varied substrates into a seamless whole. Even structural beam straps were introduced and finished in aged pewter, reinforcing visual continuity and detail.

The mantel was treated in a deeper cerused finish, creating a subtle point of contrast while maintaining harmony within the palette. Burnished lime wash walls, executed in the European tradition, lend depth and quiet movement throughout.

The result is a thoughtfully appointed guest home — intimate, elevated, and designed to feel both special and lived in.