Project Spotlight: Rosedale Cottage

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when a historic home gets a second chance. Our Rosedale Cottage project, an original 1930s, 2-bedroom, 1-bath home tucked in the heart of central Austin, was exactly that kind of opportunity. Though the cottage had been lightly flipped in recent years, much of its original charm had been muted. Our goal was to peel back the layers, honor the craftsmanship of the past, and reimagine the home with vintage-inspired details that feel both fresh and timeless. This project was extra special as well, because it's the home of our lead designer, Ali!

A Sculptural Transition: The Curved Archway & Reimagined Floor Plan

The transition from the living room into the kitchen/dining area formerly felt abrupt and boxy. We softened this connection by creating a curvy, sculptural arch wall - a subtle architectural gesture that pays homage to 1930s forms found in other areas of the home.

This new arch allowed us to reconfigure the adjoining spaces:

• On one side, we added wall-to-wall cabinetry, maximizing storage without overwhelming the room.

• On the other, we installed a full library wall complete with a rolling ladder - a charming, functional statement that adds vertical drama and old-world appeal.

Across from the library wall sits a cozy banquette breakfast nook, outfitted with a block print seat cushion and a custom scalloped oval table designed to look like a treasured vintage find.

Uncovering the Bones: A Return to Original Hardwoods

One of the first things we did was remove the added LVP and old linoleum flooring—revealing the cottage’s original white oak hardwoods beneath. Their condition was a pleasant surprise, and once refinished in a neutral, warm-toned stain, they immediately set the tone for the entire design: warm, inviting, and authentically historic.

The Heart of the Home: A Warm, Character-Filled Kitchen

The kitchen and dining space is a blend of practical storage and layered charm. We used olive skinny shaker cabinetry for the lowers and cream beaded panels for the uppers, creating a palette that feels grounded yet airy.

To complement the cabinetry, we incorporated:

• Sweet, classic brass knobs

• A vintage-inspired faucet that enhances the cottage sensibility

• A custom, curvy plastered vent hood above the range

This combination of finishes and textures gives the space a quietly collected feel, like it evolved over decades rather than being installed all at once.

A Living Room with Mood & Movement

The living room furnishings took on a moody, charming color scheme, making it a cozy retreat at the front of the home. We redesigned the fireplace to become the focal point of the room, with a curved German schmear stone finish that climbs from the floor all the way up the vaulted ceiling. The continuous, textured treatment draws the eye upward and adds a sense of grandeur to the small cottage footprint.

A Slate-Blue Sanctuary: The Bathroom Restoration

In the bathroom, we wanted to preserve what mattered most while upgrading the functionality and aesthetics. We added vertical shiplap, kept the original cast iron tub, and paired it with marble shower tile for a clean but classic result.

We created a charming penny tile mosaic on the floor, after uncovering original (and sadly unsalvageable) penny tile under the linoleum. The sweet almost floral design pays homage to what might have been there previously.

A walnut vanity topped in marble brings warmth, while a glass-door linen tower adds both elegance and practicality. The entire room is color-drenched in a perfect slate blue, making the small space feel intentional and serene.

Bedrooms with Personality & Preservation in Mind

Each bedroom got its own story:

• In one, we painted blue and white stripes, infusing youthful charm and a sense of play.

• In the other, we preserved the original wood paneling, painting the trim green to celebrate the natural texture rather than cover it up.

These rooms represent the balance of restoration and creativity that guided the entire project.

Honoring Yesterday, Designed for Today

The Rosedale Cottage restoration was a study in thoughtful restraint and joyful detail. At every turn, we asked: What would this home have wanted a hundred years ago? Then we paired that answer with the needs of modern living.

By uncovering what was original, respecting what had survived, and adding layers of vintage-inspired design, we were able to let this 1930s gem shine again - warmer, more functional, and more beautiful than ever.

If you have a historic home that needs a little love and reimagining, submit an inquiry to work with our team here!

Pin this post: