After years of working in the Hospitality Industry while dabbling in interior design on the side, I decided in 2010 to change my career path. While pursuing my interior design dream I quickly found out that product design was my true passion. I started Project Cottage to fulfill my love of creating and home decorating. With years of experience in business management, an entrepreneurial mindset and the support of my friends, family and local community I started Project Cottage. Starting this business was the best career decision I've ever made. I LOVE MY JOB! Not only do I get to design everyday, but being a business owner gives me the opportunity to work hard and create my own path to success.

My Studio
I have converted my 2000 square foot garage into a complete studio and workshop over the last four years. I design and manufacture all of my Graphic prints and wood products from here and love my studio! As a busy mom, the ability to work from home is key and although I try to keep strict rules about no kids in the studio I typically have kids, cats, dogs, husbands, neighbors, etc. etc. traipsing in and out during our day. It's wonderful:)

My Inspiration
Your favorite places can provide the best inspiration for your design style and I am fortunate to live near the ocean and doubly so because we live a short kayak ride away from a beautiful barrier island off the coast of North Carolina called Masonboro Island. Masonboro is a protected animal reserve with no development and can only be accessed by boat. . The colors and sounds and things you can only see when on the water inspires my design sense, refreshes my soul and brings clarity to my vision.

My Beliefs
I believe quality, comfort and style are not mutually exclusive. You can have it all and I strive to deliver it with every product I make. And finally, I wouldn't be where I am without our customers - people's homes are often reflections of themselves, and like people, can rarely be defined by one thing or style. I like to mix it up and encourage our customers to do the same by offering different color options, sizes and styles.

Best,
Colleen Gardner
Owner/Designer, Project Cottage


PS. Project Cottage is social! Please come join us here:
facebook.com/TheProjectCottage
pinterest.com/projectcottage
@projectcottage on twitter