Embracing the Charm of Cottagecore: A Guide to Cottagecore Design
Cottagecore is an aesthetic and lifestyle that romanticizes a simple and idyllic rural life, often drawing inspiration from the aesthetics of rural cottages, farms, and nature. It emerged as a popular trend on social media platforms and has gained a dedicated following, especially among younger generations. The term “cottagecore” is a combination of “cottage,” representing a cozy and quaint rural dwelling, and “core,” denoting a central or essential aspect.
In a fast-paced world dominated by technology and urban living, the cottagecore design trend has emerged as a breath of fresh air, inviting individuals to reconnect with nature and simpler times. Inspired by idyllic rural life, cottagecore design encapsulates a sense of nostalgia and a desire for a cozy, harmonious home. In this blog post, we’ll explore the essence of cottagecore design and offer practical tips on how to infuse this charming aesthetic into your living space.
Natural Elements and Materials:
Adding some driftwood to your cottagecore decor is absolutely free!
Cottagecore design celebrates the beauty of the outdoors, so it’s essential to bring natural elements into your home. Opt for wooden furniture, exposed beams, and stone accents to create a rustic ambiance. Incorporate indoor plants, flowers, and botanical prints to add a touch of nature.
Soft Color Palette:
Is there anything more cottagecore than Roman Shades?
Embrace soft, muted colors reminiscent of the countryside. Earthy tones such as sage green, warm beige, soft blues, and floral pastels can be used on walls, furniture, and decor. These colors evoke a sense of tranquility and warmth, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Vintage Finds and Antiques:
Many moons ago, I had an artist paint my childhood home. I’m so glad that I did as the house was torn down yet lives forever in my memories.
The aesthetic often features a cozy and vintage style, with an appreciation for handmade or second-hand items. Antique furniture, floral patterns, and muted colors are common in cottagecore decor. Scour antique shops, flea markets, Facebook Marketplace or thrift stores for unique, vintage pieces that tell a story. Incorporate rustic farmhouse furniture, vintage china, and quaint accessories to add character and charm to your living space. Embrace the imperfections and history behind each piece. Whatever you find can be painted so that it fits in your colour scheme. To learn more about painting furniture, click here.
Textured Fabrics and Comfortable Furnishings:
Cottagecore design is all about comfort. Choose plush, textured fabrics like linen, cotton, velvet and wool for upholstery, curtains, and throw pillows. Opt for comfortable, overstuffed furniture that beckons you to relax and unwind. Layering with quilts and knit blankets adds a cozy touch.
Whimsical Details:
Add whimsical touches to your space with dainty floral patterns, lace accents, and embroidered textiles. Consider incorporating wallpaper with botanical motifs or quaint patterns. Decorate with vintage tea sets, floral china, and delicate porcelain figurines for an extra touch of whimsy. Making a towel rack out of rope and dock cleats is an unexpected quaint surprise in the bathroom. And who doesn’t match their small appliances to their backsplash tile?
Open Shelving and Display:
Open shelving is a key element in cottagecore design. Display your collection of vintage dishes, books, and other charming trinkets on open shelves to create a lived-in, curated look. It not only adds visual interest but also allows you to showcase your personal style.
Without much shelving, I take full advantage of my mantel, changing out the displays every couple of months to keep it fresh. And don’t forget your front door! I make wreaths for every season. If you’d like to learn how to make a wreath, just click here.
traditional crafts and hobbies
Cottagecore enthusiasts celebrate a simpler, slower way of life. Traditional crafts and hobbies such as knitting, sewing, embroidery, and other handmade activities reflect a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. It can also involve activities like gardening, baking, and crafting, as well as a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
My favourite pastimes are crafts that use all the shells that wash up on the beach and wreaths for every season. If you’re interested in making your own Oyster Shell Garland, click here.
landscapes
The imagery associated with cottagecore often includes rolling hills, meadows, forests, and other rural landscapes. This preference for bucolic scenery reinforces the romanticized vision of a peaceful countryside life. While where I live is considered rural as I drive by farms on my way home, I am situated right on the ocean and my art reflects that.
Simple living and connection
My welcoming window into my mudroom allows me to great guests while cooking in the kitchen. Come on in, the door is always unlocked.
Cottagecore is not just about the individual’s connection to nature but also emphasizes a sense of community and togetherness. Shared activities, gatherings, and a supportive social environment are integral to the lifestyle. It represents a desire for a more wholesome and mindful lifestyle, often in contrast to the fast-paced and technology-driven aspects of modern living.
Cottagecore design is more than just an aesthetic trend; it’s a lifestyle that encourages us to slow down and appreciate the simple joys of life. By incorporating natural elements, vintage finds, and cozy furnishings, you can transform your living space into a haven of warmth and charm. Embrace the cottagecore ethos and let your home become a sanctuary where you can escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.
