Designing a small space is an art and a science. For John Loecke and Jason Oliver Nixon of the interior design firm Madcap Cottage, their Catskills home serves as the perfect testing ground. It’s where they experiment with their latest design obsessions.
Their schoolhouse has already been overhauled multiple times. And the tinkering isn’t stopping anytime soon. “It will look entirely different five years from now,” Jason admits.
Despite their ever-evolving style, the duo has nailed down a foolproof formula for creating a cozy cottage with bold character: paint + pattern + patina.
This cheerful 1840s schoolhouse packs a vibrant punch into just 858 square feet. Behind its No. 2 pencil-colored door, you’ll find a rainbow of at least a dozen paint colors, a variety of patterned fabrics and wallpapers, and a treasure trove of antiques.
Entryway
This vibrant entryway proves small spaces can make a big statement. Pastel hues, drawn from the bird-and-flower wallpaper, bring an indoor garden vibe. Framed vintage botanicals, sourced from London flea markets, add charm and timeless character.
Kitchen
The kitchen’s tongue-and-groove rafters, painted a dreamy blue, were inspired by classic Southern porches. “The color draws the eye up,” says Jason, “making the room feel like it stretches to the sky.”
Living Room
The Paint
Turquoise trim and beams echo the entry’s floral wallpaper, bringing a cohesive blue-green theme throughout. “The ceiling is our canvas to make a statement,” says Jason.
The Pattern
True to their “No Beige Sofas” mantra, John and Jason used their Madcap Cottage Into the Garden collection to create a lively, layered look. A clean-lined sofa in a two-tone floral pattern pops against neutral wallpaper, while sunny drapes and vibrant cushions steal the show.
The Pattern
Classic meets modern in this kitchen, where milk jug and teacup wallpaper pairs beautifully with sleek black cabinets and a concrete island.
The Patina
Sentimental treasures bring warmth to the space, from a New Orleans lantern to a bright yellow sign that once lined London streets during Queen Elizabeth II’s 1953 coronation.
Stairway
The Paint
When John and Jason use beige, it’s high-gloss—like on the stairs. In the bedroom, glossy saffron accents on the window, baseboards, and bookshelves mirror the home’s welcoming front door.
The Pattern
Believing no space is truly a “pass-through,” they added floral wallpaper up the stairwell. In the bedroom, the same design is complemented by custom floral shams and a patchwork quilt from their Madcap Cottage collection for HSN.
The Patina
The oak bed, bought by Jason’s parents in England in the ’70s, offers a sturdy contrast to the room’s more delicate touches.
The Pugs
Amy Petunia and Weenie prove that even in a small space, there’s always room for rescue dogs.
Dining Room
What’s behind the cabinet doors? “It’s another bar!” Jason reveals. “We open the cabinet and let the good times roll.” Naturally, these color enthusiasts favor rosé over plain white wine.
Bathroom
The Paint
John and Jason gave the wainscoting a fresh look with two lush shades of green, adding depth and warmth to the space.
The Pattern
“It’s very English to skirt things,” says Jason. The custom sink skirt, adorned with roses and ferns, hides bathroom clutter, while trellis wallpaper continues the garden-inspired theme.
The Patina
Gilded sconces, antique mirrors, and English countryside prints give the small powder room a curated feel—”like stepping into a boutique hotel,” according to Jason.
Bedroom
In this low-pitched room, John and Jason made the most of every inch with custom built-ins. Books are stacked both horizontally and vertically to maximize storage in each cubby.
The Patina
A hand-painted, Asian-inspired secretary from a Hudson auction adds both elegance and storage. The 1930s coffee table, a Christie’s find, anchors the space with vintage charm.
This tiny house is decorated with many beautiful colorful motifs, the living space is also complete and comfortable.
Image via Max Kim-Bee.
Many thanks to the Homeowners – Jason Oliver Nixon and John Loecke.
