Cottage-core, a design trend inspired by rural life and nature, has become a beloved style for those looking to bring a sense of cosiness and simplicity into their homes. From soft, floral patterns to handcrafted decor, this aesthetic invites the charm of a countryside retreat into your living space. Here’s how you can create your own cottage-core haven with a few thoughtful design choices.
Embrace Soft, Pastel Colours
Start by incorporating soft, pastel shades into your colour palette. Think muted greens, lavender, pale blues, and warm creams. These colours evoke a sense of tranquility and invite a laid-back atmosphere into any room. You can opt for pastel-painted walls, or mix and match pastel throws and pillows to create a cosy ambiance.
Vintage and Antique Finds
A key element of cottage-core design is using vintage and antique items. Look for old wooden furniture, vintage quilts, and classic porcelain teacups. These pieces add character to your home and tell a story, helping you build a space that feels rooted in history.
Natural, Earthy Materials
Wood, wicker, and stone are essential materials in cottage-core decor. Choose furniture made from reclaimed wood, woven baskets, and stoneware for a timeless, organic look. These materials connect the indoors with nature and create a soothing environment.
Floral Prints and Botanical Elements
Floral patterns are central to cottage-core aesthetics. Whether through wallpaper, bedding, or curtains, a simple floral print brings nature’s beauty inside. Additionally, integrating indoor plants into your home will help further solidify the connection to the natural world.
DIY Craftsmanship
Cottage-core is all about handmade, artisanal touches. Crafting your own decor pieces, such as hand-sewn pillows or homemade candles, will add an extra layer of authenticity to your space. If you're not into DIY projects, consider incorporating locally made art or pottery to support craftsmanship and add personality.
Cosy Textiles
Layer your home with soft fabrics like knitted blankets, linen tablecloths, and patchwork quilts. Cottage-core is all about comfort, so don't shy away from using textures that feel warm and inviting, like cotton, wool, and burlap.
Simple, Wholesome Kitchen Essentials
The kitchen is the heart of a cottage-core home. Create a charming space by incorporating rustic wooden cutting boards, vintage kitchenware, and mason jar storage. Fill your shelves with homemade jams, locally grown herbs, and vintage teacups for an added touch of warmth and character.
Candles and Soft Lighting
Lighting plays a significant role in creating a cosy cottage-core atmosphere. Opt for soft, ambient lighting from candles, fairy lights, or vintage-inspired lamps. This will add warmth to the space and enhance the calming nature of your home.
Embrace the Outdoors
Finally, cottage-core decor doesn’t stop at the door. Make sure your outdoor space mirrors the rustic charm of your interior. Simple wooden furniture, a vegetable garden, and floral landscaping can all help bring the cottage-core aesthetic to your backyard.
By incorporating these elements into your home, you can create a beautiful, rustic retreat that feels welcoming and full of personality. With the right mix of vintage finds, soft colours, and handmade details, cottage-core decor will turn your house into a cosy, charming escape.
