Waterside Cottages showcases fourteen romantic waterside retreats from coast to coast. Bungalows near the water tend to be snug and modest with exteriors painted in sun-reflecting whites, nautical blues, or playful colors. The interiors of these houses likewise avoid formality in favor of a casual approach. This home decorating book takes you to tidy New England beach cottages with bright tropical bungalows to a boathouse on the steep pine-studded banks of Michigan's Kalamazoo River.

Waterside Cottages defines the attributes of successful coastal decorating, so that anyone, anywhere, can create a casual atmosphere, even when the nearest body of water is a thousand miles away. Whether you're wanting to decorate a living room in a relaxed island beach style, re-do a kids bedroom with a nautical flair, or give your sea or lakeside kitchen a needed update there are decorating ideas for a variety of tastes. Decorators will find inspiration for shabby chic style to americana, tropical palm tree paradise, and even Cape Cod designs.