Life & Style HOME
by Elyse Major
Life of Riley
Photos by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill
A Bristol artisan outfits her cottage with vintage vavoom
Carol Riley is busy. A self-described maker, she designs clothing, accessories, and decor using vintage and new fabrics, salvaged trimming, and notions under her “Tatters” label. She upcycles the occasional piece of furniture; and is currently at work transforming an old church into her own boutique. Says Carol, “I’m hoping it will be a destination spot for anyone that loves things that are a bit different and one of a kind.” Carol and her husband Michael are known around town for their perfectly named bed and breakfast, Bristol Cottage. The Rileys have lived in the 1946-built Cape for 25 years. Carol was instantly drawn to the architectural
A small living room is anything but stuffy thanks to white walls and panels, and a well-placed mirror to lend light and movement. Legged furniture adds to the airy feel.
style and property, noting “I fell in love with the flowering cherry trees that flanked the house; sadly, they are no longer there.” Inside the home, Carol has her studio, which she describes as her happy place. “I can go sit in there and lose
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