Embrace Cosy Charm: How to Design with Cottage Style

I know, You hear me go on about cottage style all the time. Maybe I’m trying to convert you? Or maybe I want you to get out of your white wall rut and take a risk in design. Cottage style design exudes timeless charm and an inviting atmosphere. Its rustic simplicity, warm colors, and vintage-inspired elements are reminiscent of quaint homes of the past. It’s everything I want in a home. If you’re looking to create a soothing and dreamy space with loads of personality, here are my essential tips,

NB: All images via Pinterest if not credited

A Soft and Serene Color Palette:

Start by selecting a soft and soothing color palette for your cottage style design. Classic colors like pastel blues, soft greens, warm yellows, and creamy whites work beautifully. These colors evoke a sense of calmness. They make the space feel light and airy, creating an ideal backdrop for your decor. If you’re still recovering from the decade when everything was white, try a pastel painted dresser. Or maybe paint the back of a door to match your new scheme. Going soft does not mean you have to paint every wall pink.

Natural and Textured Materials:

To achieve an authentic cottage feel, incorporate natural and textured materials throughout your home. Wooden furniture with a distressed or whitewashed finish brings a rustic touch. Choose soft furnishings and upholstery in cotton or linen fabrics to add a soft and comfortable feel to the space. Incorporating natural elements like wicker baskets, rattan furniture, and woven rugs will enhance the cottage ambiance. Our cottage will have elements of wicker in the light fittings to give a rustic feel to rooms.

Embrace Vintage and Antique Pieces

Incorporate vintage or antique furniture and decor pieces to give your cottage style design a touch of nostalgia. Look for old wooden dressers, vintage bedside tables, and antique mirrors. Markets, second-hand stores, and antique shops are excellent places to find treasures that will add charm to a room. My favourite spots to shop are FB Marketplace and at auction.

Create a Cozy Reading Nook

A cottage style home wouldn’t be complete without a cosy reading nook. Choose a corner near a window, add a comfortable armchair, and a side table for a cup of tea. Throw in some cushions and a throw blanket to create a spot where you can unwind.

Accessorise with Delicate Details:

Incorporate delicate details to elevate the cottage ambiance. Use floral patterns for cushions, bedspreads, or curtains. Hang vintage-inspired artwork or paintings of nature scenes on the walls. Display collections en masse. Consider adding decorative elements like vintage clocks, porcelain vases, or an antique lamp to enhance the overall charm of the room.

Opt for soft, warm lighting to evoke a sense of comfort. Table lamps with vintage shades, string lights, or candle sconces can all add a touch of magic to your cottage bedroom. Avoid harsh or bright lighting that may disrupt the tranquil ambiance you are trying to achieve.

Designing a cottage style home allows you to create a personal haven that exudes warmth, simplicity, and timeless charm. By choosing soft colors, incorporating natural materials, embracing vintage finds, and paying attention to the details, you can transform your space into a cozy and inviting retreat that will transport you to the tranquility of a countryside cottage. So, go ahead and unleash your creativity!