A carved vintage wooden swan has found a new home in our living room, and I couldn’t be happier. I love when a space feels layered and meaningful—when furnishings carry stories—and this swan brings just that. It’s the sort of eclectic, personal touch I hoped to build into this house.
This swan belonged to my mom for many years and she’s now shared it with us. She actually had a pair; the other swan is living at my daughter Kylee’s house. Seeing one of them here feels like a sweet connection between our homes.
It was serendipitous that I had placed a small drop-leaf table behind the sofa after my mom gave me a bamboo cart. I hadn’t expected to receive the swan—then one day last week she set it on that table, and it felt immediately right.
Here’s a similar drop leaf table!
The swan provides the height and charm I’d imagined for that spot behind the sofa. It reads as a small statement piece that anchors the area without overwhelming it. I didn’t realize how much I would love the swan there until it was in place—what a lovely surprise.
A few readers asked where these vintage items were while my parents moved into their Tiny Cottage. My parents have been sorting and clearing their storage as they downsize, and during a recent family visit they brought the bamboo cart and the swans. When my mom placed one here, it felt instantly at home. I’m grateful she thought of us.
On the topic of moving and downsizing: many of you have asked how we managed combining households and transitioning into a multi-generational home. It’s a big undertaking and not always simple, but it’s been worthwhile for our family. There are plenty of practical and emotional steps to the process; perhaps I’ll share more of our experience in another post.
Paint Colors: Living Room: Beach Glass by Benjamin Moore. Trim: Classic Light Buff by Sherwin Williams.
Sources: More items from my home can be found in my shop.
I enjoy browsing Etsy for vintage decor and original art. Below are a few recent cottage-style finds and favorites.
Slow Decorating: How We Make Our House A Home
Where to Find Coastal / Sailboat / Seascape Artwork: Favorite Sources
Collections That Add Soul To A Home
Cottage Style Etsy Home Decor Finds (Antiques, Blue + White, Coastal!)
Traditional & Collected Coastal Style: Get the Look Mood Board
A Vintage Washstand for a Table in the Living Room