When I grudgingly cracked open Cottage Living magazine for the first time I expected Amish doll toaster cosys, fake vintage signs hung at a jaunty angles declaring "Eggs: three cents," and so much more kountry kitchen krap. I picked it up only because it was the last magazine left in my doctor's waiting room.
Now, I'm renewing my subscription for a third year.
Have you seen Cottage Living's kitchens? They are warm, but many are also calm or nearly minimal: deep sinks, powerful stoves, and of course that poetic picture perfect view. (My kitchen window is six inches wide and stares right into the kitchen across the airshaft.)
These kitchens manage to feel more achievable and less threatening than those Martha Stewart Living features. While we might quibble with leaving huge bread box that says "Bread" on the counter or laugh at over-faux-finished cabinets, these places have heart. I could pull up in my imaginary Volvo wagon, stock the larder and stay all winter.
I appreciate Sara Foster's advice on No-Fail Holiday Platters. Each issue also has advice for making centerpieces. I made their white French tulip and pussy willow fish bowl centerpiece last spring and people still ask about it.
The magazine manages to be flannel bathrobe cosy, but usually avoids going too Mary Engelbreit sicky-sweet. Cottage Living tries to keep things things affordable and (maybe just a little bit too) cheerful.
If you sign up for a free trial subscription, you'll get immediate digital access to the October issue.
Actually, most of those kitchens are from other mags, if you look at the captions. I'm not surprised to see Real Simple, Sunset, and Coastal Living among them. Only the first 6 or 7 are from Cottage Living.
Is cooking Light any good? Last time I looked at it I was a low-carb pescatarian so it didn't apply to me, but I've come to my senses.
Anita, I was thinking more of the Cottage Living magazine than the site. The magazine has a couple of great kitchen phoots most months.
Jennie, I occasionaly read Cooking Light, but haven't tried any of their recipes in a while. So many magazines, so little time in the kitchen!
I love Cottage Living these days. Last month's issue had the most beautiful small kitchen. Painted all in white with virtually no upper cabinets. Over the old restored stove, there was a huge blackboard. Light and compact, full of character and yet still spare, it was a vision to me, lol. I'm pretty short and upper kitchen cabinets are something I'd like to get rid of in my own kitchen. Maybe someday but until then, I'm saving my copy of that Cottage Living magazine so I can dream of that wonderful kitchen.
And it is on the website.