Creating cottagecore cool in your home

Words Dolores O’Donoghue

There’s a timeless charm that emanates from the heart of cottage-style decor. Rooted in nostalgia, it’s all about highlighting and preserving cherished original features while integrating them with modern-day living to make inviting, cosy spaces. The essence of comfort and simplicity, cottagecore has a romantic quality and a welcoming vibe, creating the perfect surroundings in which to spend time with family and friends. We take a look at some key design ideas to craft that cottage style. 

Welcoming, earthy hues 

Elevate the ambience by selecting warm colours inspired by the earth’s natural pigments. Consider shades like creamy neutrals, earthy stone and honeyed yellows, extending to warm blush pinks and deep terracotta for instant cosiness. For those decorating an older cottage with original plaster, it’s advisable to choose a breathable paint formula to preserve the historical integrity of the space.

Rustic flooring options

Floors in cottage-style homes are often informal and even imperfect. Reclaimed wood floors, natural stone or ceramic tiles in warm, earthy tones are all good options. New wood floors can be made to look old by applying surface distressing techniques to simulate centuries of use and wear. Rugs or stencil patterns can add interest while also defining areas.

Atmospheric lighting

Candles, decorative lanterns and string lights can all help build the perfect romantic glow for a cottage-inspired home. As the sun sets, instead of turning on the overhead lights, recreate the simpler atmosphere of past country living with softer ambient lighting. Either plain or patterned lampshades on both floor and table lamps are at the cornerstone of cottagecore chic and a great way to add pockets of light to a room.

Nature-inspired art

Adorn walls and bookshelves with floral art prints and scenic landscapes. Even if the art doesn’t focus on nature, opt for frames that harmonise with the cottage-style theme. Wooden frames or plastic frames in neutral tones work beautifully. They don’t need to match, as cottagecore is not about perfection.

Vintage and repurposed furniture

One of the defining features of cottage-style decor is the use of vintage and repurposed furniture. Pieces that have a storied past, like weathered wooden tables, distressed cabinets and antique chairs, will blend seamlessly into the overall aesthetic. These timeless items not only add character but also evoke a sense of nostalgia that’s hard to replicate with brand-new furniture.

Playful patterns and textures

Cottage decor often incorporates playful patterns and textures to provide visual interest and depth. Mixing and matching fabrics with floral prints, gingham checks and stripes is a common practice. These patterns, along with the use of cosy textures like knitted throws, soft cushions and plush rugs, add layers of comfort and a touch of whimsy to the space.

Natural elements and botanical accents

To fully embrace the cottage style, it’s essential to bring the outdoors inside. Consider decorating with potted plants, fresh flowers and botanical prints. Indoor plants not only brighten up our homes but also help to purify the air. The natural, random patterns made by plants and the shadows they cast also add texture and visual interest. Introduce aromatic plants such as rosemary and lavender that stimulate the sense of smell and infuse the space with a refreshing and vibrant energy. 

The cottage kitchen

Cottage-style kitchens have always been fashionable, and their enduring appeal lies in the warmth and character this aesthetic instantly brings to any home. 

Look for vintage and antique kitchen accessories such as old crockery, enamelware, and copper pots and pans. Open shelving is ideal for displaying vintage finds and pretty dishes while keeping everything within reach.

A vintage kitchen table and chairs exude rustic charm and lend a sense of nostalgia, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or gathering to share stories and meals.

Adding textiles like floral tablecloths, tea towels and comfy rugs can all add to the cosiness and comfort of the kitchen. 

• ‘Interiors: Cottagecore Cool’ is published in Anthology Volume 20. Read more features from this volume or buy it now.
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