Text by Holly Seng
Ready for a complete overhaul of her Florida property’s 700-square-foot guest cottage, this homeowner called on her neighbor turned friend Jessica Lagrange, principal of Chicago-based interior design firm Jessica Lagrange Interiors.
A collection of Lilly Pulitzer quilts made in the ’60s by the homeowner’s mother served as the jumping-off point, setting a fun and vibrant tone carried throughout the project. “[The quilts] have a really beautiful spot in the living room,” says Jessica of the acrylic trunk used to store the pieces. “Not only can people take them out and use them, but they’re on display in the center of the space.”
Shiplap walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s White Dove and neutral upholstery play supporting roles to the bright blue, coral, and citrus green hues that infuse the living room with whimsical charm. Solidifying both the color scheme and coastal theme, drapery fabric that features an embroidered array of seaweed pairs with a variegated striped rug custom-dyed to match the palette. Jessica selected a lightweight coffee table so the room could easily transition into an additional sleep option for overnight guests, making use of the sofa’s pullout bed.
Nestled in the corner, an Eero Saarinen table and trio of Michael Thonet bentwood chairs spray-painted a soft coral tone offer a convenient dining nook. “We wanted a space where [guests] can have breakfast or a late-night snack,” says Jessica. When she came across artwork depicting spoonbills, which are native to the area, the coordinating shades and connection to nature made the piece an ideal fit.
While painted floors are found throughout the cottage, the entry hallway features a stenciled pale blue geometric pattern in lieu of a rug. Custom Julie Neill sconces stand out against the sea blue grass cloth wall covering. A straw hat collection cleverly hides an electrical panel as it doubles as a stylish focal point.
Tucked behind a set of louvered doors, a former closet was reimagined as a kitchenette complete with a refrigerator, microwave, hot plate, and coffee maker—ensuring guests have all of their essentials. Open shelving makes the most of the small alcove, showing off the playful cement tiles that add a dash of retro style as they carry on the coral scheme. Shiplap makes a reappearance in the cabinetry topped with butcher-block counters and embellished with oil-rubbed bronze hardware sure to withstand the salty air.
In the bedroom, two queen-size beds with Serena & Lily wicker headboards coated in Benjamin Moore’s Coral Bronze provide a powerful panache. “We just loved how fun and whimsical they were—kind of bringing back that 1970s Slim Aarons Palm Beach charm,” Jessica says. A sisal rug incorporates natural texture while embroidered draperies impart a subtle touch of refinement. Swing-arm sconces fitted with raffia shades conveniently lend themselves for late-night reading.
Though modest in size, this beach bungalow is packed with spirited style sure to delight overnight guests. “For us, this was such a fun project, and it was refreshing to get to design for someone who wasn’t afraid of color,” says Jessica. “[The homeowner] really pushed us to go brighter and brighter. The marriage between us and the homeowner is really what resulted in this cute little place.”
