![featured Looking Back at Our Top-Performing Posts in 2023](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/featured-2.jpg)
As another year draws to a close, we find ourselves more in love with cozy, cottage style—and extra thankful for our readers who share a fondness for this heartwarming aesthetic. From relaxing lakefront retreats to historic abodes filled with heirloom treasures and cherished collectibles, there is something for everyone to enjoy. This year brought with it our latest coffee table book, Dream Cottages, as well as an exciting new special issue: Cottage Retreats. Join us as we take a look back at our most visited web posts this year—and stay tuned for the new content coming in 2024!
[10] Step Inside Virginia Interior Designer Ame Gold’s Dream House
![Exterior of a white home with blue shutters and a gray roof.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/10.jpg)
Interior designer Ame Gold put her passions and skills to work when she and her husband, Bryan Berezdivin, built their own home in the heart of Arlington, Virginia.
[9] Incorporate Color in Your Cottage with Expert Tips from Interior Designers
![Library with blue walls and built-ins and a blue velvet sofa.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/9.jpg)
When Nashville-based Connie Vernich brings color into her clients’ homes, she considers personality to help her determine the perfect shade, like she did with this classic-style farmhouse in Tennessee.
[8] 10 Coastal Cottages to Inspire Your Next Summer Escape
![A hallway with painted floors and aqua grasscloth wallpaper.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/8-1.jpg)
A collection of Lilly Pulitzer quilts made in the ’60s by this homeowner’s mother served as the muse and starting point for the lively patterns and vibrant hues woven throughout this 700-square-foot guest bungalow on Jupiter Island, Florida. See the full roundup, here.
[7] Romantic Country Style Fills This Charming Cottage
![A front porch with blue wicker furniture.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/7-1.jpg)
With its vintage-style trimwork, porch swing, and white picket fence, this charming cottage may seem like it’s straight out of a storybook, but you’ll find it nestled in the small town of Leiper’s Fork, Tennessee.
[6] Boost Your Cottage Curb Appeal with Expert Advice from Designer Loi Thai
![A white house with a gate flanked by hydrangeas.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/6-1.jpg)
From planning your yard’s hardscaping to selecting the perfect floral finishing touch, maximizing your cottage’s curb appeal is one of the best ways to create a lasting impression on friends and neighbors.
[5] These Before and After Images Are Beyond Inspiring
![A white kitchen with woven barstools.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/5-1.jpg)
From kitchen renovations to exterior makeovers, these before and after images show just how magical a design refresh can be.
[4] We’re in Love with This Lakeside Modern Farmhouse
![The exterior of a white cottage.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/4-1.jpg)
This charming 690-square-foot modern farmhouse was built in 2013, and every element of its design was carefully planned to help the small space live large.
[3] If You Love Dogs and Décor, Then These 23 Homes Are Perfect for You
![A blue-and-white living room.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/3.jpeg)
Dogs and design—is there any better combination? Definitely not! We love seeing families enjoying their beautiful homes, and that includes their furry friends, too.
[2] This Cozy Beach Cottage Was Designed with One Thing in Mind: Fun, Casual Living
![The front exterior of a beach cottage.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2-1.jpg)
Not far from the wood-planked boardwalk of Bethany Beach, Delaware, you might stumble upon Bikinis & Birdwells, the charming vacation home of a young, active family who truly loves having fun—this much is obvious from the cottage’s casual and welcoming aesthetic.
[1] 5 Merry Mantels That’ll Keep You Cozy This Season!
![A back porch with a stone fireplace.](https://thecottagejournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/1.jpg)
The weather outside may be frightful, but these fireside locales sure are delightful! From garlands of foraged greenery to stockings hung with care, these mantels celebrate the season with festive style.
Shop our latest issues for more inspiration!