Some people can spot potential, even when it involves an outdated, Victorian-style cottage with ornate windows that block the highly sought-after views of Little Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan. That was the case for a savvy couple with a passion for real estate and design who turned to Harbor Springs-based Cottage Company Interiors for a renovation to make their diamond-in-the-rough Bay Harbor retreat the ultimate summer destination.
Floral wallpaper and heavy draperies were among the “before” features that had to go in order for the couple to have their happily-ever-after home. The cottage’s Victorian style gave way to a fresh and sophisticated vibe that represents the current owners, who make their home on the East Coast but have childhood ties to northern Michigan. “No room was left untouched,” says Kelly Konoske, president of Cottage Company Interiors (the design arm of Cottage Company). “(The home) had good structure and decent bones, and the clients could envision what it could be. We didn’t change much structurally or architecturally, and the location was a big selling point.”
With seven bedrooms, including a main floor master, five full baths, and two half-baths, there’s plenty of room for the family and their guests to spread out. The second floor has four bedrooms and a bunk room, while the lower-level walkout features a guest room, a kitchenette, and a game room. Color continuity connects the deluxe guest rooms to the bathrooms. “It’s a great opportunity to have one element that ties it all together, to make it feel like it flows,” Konoske explains.
Practicality was a priority that was met with performance fabrics and hardwood floors. Casual living areas with a purpose answered the homeowners’ request for no formal or wasted space. “The goal was to make the home accommodating and welcoming for friends and family, (and to ensure it’s) a place for entertaining and making memories,” says Konoske, who adds that she thoroughly enjoyed this project. “The (homeowners) were so fun to work with and so trusting of my ideas. We just gelled, and the process was seamless.”
Wanting to give the home a sense of place, Konoske took inspiration from the serene surroundings and brought in varying shades of blue, as well as patterns and textures that lend interest and keep the rooms cohesive. Low-profile furnishings expand the views, while distinct ceiling treatments — like the single beadboard in the great room — define each space.
Artwork plucked from the couple’s existing collection was refreshed with new frames, while an intriguing array of seating showcases pieces with architectural details, like the stools in the great room. “There are so many places to seat people,” notes Konoske, who arranged the back porch by placing chaise lounges near the master bedroom, and dining and lounging options by the main rooms.
The master bedroom is a soothing respite for the homeowners, with shiplap walls and a wool carpet that provides comfort underfoot. Gray tones appear on the fabrics, including the subtle animal print worn by the couple’s Art Deco-style chairs. In the master bathroom, a soaking tub is a focal point in the calming space, and geometric tile floors add texture. His-and-hers vanities feature custom built-ins, while vertical shiplap gives the illusion of a taller ceiling. Contemporary fixtures deliver a modern twist to the classic cottage environment.
Lighting makes a statement in the dining room, where a modern chandelier hangs from the coffered ceiling, illuminating the teak table with its metal base and chairs upholstered in an abstract animal print. “I love contemporary lighting,” Konoske says. “That’s one area where you can push the boundaries.” An adjacent sitting area with swivel chairs is a cozy spot for enjoying a cup of coffee or playing a card game.
An open layout that resulted from the renovation led to an airy white kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a handmade Chain Homme geometric tile backsplash, and quartz countertops. The window seat in the breakfast nook can easily accommodate company when the table is pushed beside it. “They like having a house that’s comfortable for 10, but intimate for two,” Konoske says.
The bunk room, with six beds, is a favorite with kids, while the couple loves the meditative quality of the lake and the back porch that enables them to eat outside whenever possible. Another big hit is the fire pit, where everyone gathers for laughter and s’mores.
With the couple’s childhood ties to northern Michigan, this reimagined cottage creates a home base with a special connection they can share with their three grown children and endless guests. The coveted location lets them spend time outside, with the added convenience of being able to walk to the beach or take a stroll down the street for dinner or drinks.
According to the couple, the home — thanks to its fabulous reinvention from dated to delightful — has already created priceless memories.
RESOURCES
Interior Design
Kelly Konoske, Cottage Company Interiors, Harbor Springs, cottage-company.com
Builder
Cottage Company Interiors, Harbor Springs
Kitchen Designer
Signature Kitchens, Petoskey
Landscape Architect
Vidosh North LLC, Petoskey
Original Architect
White & Liebler Architects, Petoskey
“I love the hand-wrapped chair (Hermosa Lounge Chair by Palecek) because it gives relaxing beach vibes without being overly nautical. Its approachable scale and airy design make it a versatile piece perfect for a living room or
even a guest bedroom.”— Kelly Konoske
Design Sampler
A few of interior designer Kelly Konoske’s favorites
Styled by Jamie Fabbri
1. SERENA & LILY’s Pacifica Dining Chair sets the stage for scenic dining al fresco. $898, Serena & Lily, Birmingham, serenaandlily.com.
2. WORLDS AWAY’s Alexis nightstand offers storage and style, making it a bedroom essential. Price upon request, worlds-away.com.
3. A mirror hung where it can reflect the water view is a must — this Chavelle style by ARTERIORS is perfect for the job! $2,070, arteriorshome.com
4. The Hermosa Lounge Chair by PALECEK features a black aluminum frame that’s hand-wrapped in gray synthetic wicker. Price upon request, palecek.com.
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