If you're a fan of cozy, cottage-style décor, then you're going to love our latest Complementary. Guest Curations contributor, Cindy Magoon.

Cindy's passion for decorating is evident in everything she touches, from ruffled pillows to vintage platters. Her love for home design was instilled in her by her mom and grandmother, and she considers herself self-taught.

Cindy's expertise in cottage-style décor is showcased in the redesign of her 1939 Connecticut lake cottage, which exudes warmth and charm.

Her timeless aesthetic led her to create and furnish numerous remodels for family and friends, all of which embody the classic cottage look that says "welcome home!"

We were delighted when Cindy agreed to curate a selection of current online auction lots. Her choices reflect her impeccable taste and include a nice range of pieces from lighting to vintage china.

Read on to discover Cindy's top picks and learn more about her love for estate sales and online auctions.

Blending Classic and Cottage

1. Exquisite Tiered Gilt Tole Chandelier (item #: 235436)

“Unique, vintage metal statement piece, helps ground room. This chandelier would add a romantic focal point to cottage style rooms. This beauty does not disappoint.”

2. Statuesque Hall Mirror (item #: 241878)

“Curved lines, warm wooden frame…lots of character. Would look great on an entry wall, or over a vintage sink in a powder room.”

3. English Pine Two Piece Cupboard with Intricate Carved Acorns & Oak Leaves - No Shelves (item #: 241547)

“There’s nothing “more cottage” that an English pine cupboard for a time-worn homey feel. Display plates and collectables, change seasonally, all you need are shelves! Easy!”

4. 20th C. American Winged-Back Chair (item #: 241904)

“This classic wingback is a prime candidate for reupholstery. Has good bones…so would strip legs and refinish before reupholstering.”

5. Two Vintage Shaker Style Lidded Boxes - One Signed (item #: 197247)

“Great interesting pieces for display on a tall hutch or table. Authentic colonial period trinket storage boxes. Attractive additional storage for knitting, sewing, cards, dice, dominoes, TV remotes, etc.”

6. Antique Copeland Spode Tower Blue Platter (item #: 241756)

“Nothing speaks of a cottage like vintage platters! Blue and white is classic. Create a collection or mix in with other paintings.”

7. Rich Burled Walnut Richly Carved Console (item #: 241825)

“This table is perfect as a side table or library table for displaying collections and/or books and colorful flowers. Its charming patina will add warmth and authenticity to your room.”

8. Elegant 19th. Century French Louis XIII Style Needlepoint Chair (item #: 241845)

“The detail on this carved wood is beautiful. Would make a wonderful accent chair…mixed with cheerfully upholstered armchairs and sofa. One-off pieces add interest.”

Q&A with Cindy

How did you become interested in estate sales and online auctions?

I have always appreciated fine antiques and vintage pieces — a trait I inherited from my grandmother. She collected many pieces from turn-of-the-century Old New York and Europe. I was instilled with the appreciation for timeless pieces that endure the generations.

How do you describe your design style or aesthetic?

My delightful interpretation of my renovated 1939 New England lake cottage is a combination of styles which includes the quintessential Adirondack Lake home and the beloved fairytale cottages of Hugh Comstock’s Carmel-by-the-Sea cottages.

It’s full of warm pine and oak, tall ceilings, and an abundance of paned windows to capture the lake views. I furnished it with many vintage and antique pieces, which evoke a timeworn ease, yet it feels light and fresh.

By mixing patterns, textures and colors on upholstered pieces and textile accessories, I created that “once-upon-a-time” comfort and character. The best feeling is when people say they could live here forever!

What are some things you always find yourself bidding upon in online auctions?

Online auctions and estate sales are a fantastic way to avail yourself of countless items that have already been procured, examined and described for your consideration, all from the convenience of your sofa!

I’m always drawn to lighting, vintage china, framed art, upholstered chairs in need of fabric rescue, and solid wood furniture pieces.

What's your absolute favorite item ever purchased at an estate sale or online auction?

My favorite two heirloom pieces purchased at an estate sale are a 24-inch cherub-like marble sculpture of a mother reading to a child. It’s a touching message that speaks to each of us, and its simple beauty and elegance works with any decor style!

The other is an oak drop-leaf table, which serves as a sort of side table/library table in my living room to display books, collections, and grocery store flowers!

Any tips or advice for online auction or estate sale newbies?

When searching items on online auctions, I’m always looking for collected artwork, furniture to be reupholstered and vintage wood furniture pieces, which reinforces cottage charm. Cozy accents can make any home feel loved!

If you are new to the online auction experience, I would recommend seeking out pieces that really speak to you. Print out hard copies of your favorites and imagine them in your home, where they would fit best.

If you’re collecting a few pieces for the same room, take the time to see how they would work together to create the look and feel you’re trying to achieve.

Most of all, have fun with it … and if you lose out on one piece, the thrill of the hunt is there for you to continue searching!