The 1930’s era Bottletree Bungalow in Rolling Fork was in disrepair when sisters Mary Corban and Laura Hollis decided to rescue it with the intention of turning it into a bed and breakfast. The first thing one notices approaching this picturesque building is the colorful bottle tree in the front yard, followed in quick succession by the neat white picket fence, the archway teeming with tall showy flowers, and the sky-blue exterior of the bungalow.

Inside, the colors are dazzling and cheerful. Lilac shutters frame the French doors to the red kitchen cabinets. Bright green walls color the bedroom, and splashes of primary colors are used with abandon throughout. When asked about the vivid decorating scheme, Laura says, “It just evolved.” She and Mary started with yards of black and white fabric and hired a local seamstress to make window treatments and other accents. Only when the black and white touches were complete did the addition of color begin. Both sisters deny any previous experience in decorating, but both declare emphatically that decorating the bungalow was “pure joy.”

The bottle tree theme not only is used in the gardens, but throughout the interior of the bungalow as well. A miniature bottle tree serves as the centerpiece of the dining table, and bottles filled with fresh flowers add a splash of color to every room.

Outdoors, bottle trees vie with the colorful flowers for attention and add to the appeal and whimsy of the establishment. The backyard forms a quiet nook that is perfect for an alfresco cup of morning coffee.

The Bottletree Bungalow opened in June 2007, attracts travelers with its home-away-from-home appeal. Delectable continental breakfast items and snacks are left in the Bungalow for guests to enjoy as their schedules dictate.

When asked how they like being B&B owners, Laura is adamant. “We’ve loved every minute,” she insists, and Mary enthusiastically concurs.