Want to escape to the country without leaving home? The quaint, rural and much-loved interior trend, cottagecore, can be embraced by all. Even for those of us accustomed to the daily hustle and bustle of city life, our homes can still offer the perfect place to create a rural retreat.
Whimiscal, cosy, and homely, cottagecore interiors romanticise the charm of countryside living with a soft, delicate colour palette inspired by nature. Throw in patterned textiles (like intricate florals) and vintage accessories for the traditional cottagecore aesthetic, or modernise it through bolder shades and botanical accents.
Want to get the look? Here’s how to tap into the cottagecore trend for less with five inexpensive decorating ideas.
1. DIY CHIC
‘An easy way to make a room look more “cottagecore” is to incorporate handmade or DIY elements into the room,’ says Tobie Lewis, paint and interiors expert at V&CO. ‘There’s something so romantic and personal about displaying a piece of artwork or artistry in your home that has been 100 per cent created by yourself or a family member. Try incorporating paintings, embroidery or wall hangings which showcase your creative side as well as making your space completely individual and unique.’
2. REUSE AND RELOVE
You know the saying – one person’s trash is another’s treasure. ‘Whether it’s wicker baskets or Laura Ashley curtains from the 1980s, this look is easy to find secondhand,’ says Hannah Rouch, trends expert at Gumtree.
3. BRING THE OUTSIDE IN
‘Houseplants can evoke a sense of the countryside indoors,’ adds Hannah. And the best thing is that it doesn’t have to cost the earth. Alternatively, add potted plants, wildflower arrangements or fresh garden flowers to bring the outside in.
4. FLORAL FLOURISH
Sticking with the flower theme, you could always introduce a statement wall with floral wallpaper, or a floral-patterned throw or bedding with your favourite blooms. It’ll create a comforting and cosy feel to your space, providing a distinct alternative to hectic lives.
5. GROW A HERB GARDEN
Fill a decorative display of secondhand pots and jars with fresh herbs – they’ll grow quickly and provide the perfect garnish while adding flavour to meals. Embrace the cottagecore theme with fresh lemon verbena or lavender to flavour a homegrown cup of tea, or pick varieties like rosemary and mint to complement wholesome cooking.
Follow House Beautiful on TikTok and Instagram.
Olivia Heath is the Daily Editor at House Beautiful. Heading up all things digital, Olivia loves uncovering tomorrow’s biggest design trends and sharing the best decorating tips, small space living solutions, and houseplant care advice. She also enjoys curating stylish and affordable homeware on the high street, as well as spotlighting the hottest properties on the market.
Olivia covers some of the biggest events in the calendar, including all the action from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Colour of the Year forecasts from Pantone to Dulux, and exclusive previews of all the new Christmas collections before it hits the shops.
Olivia has been writing about homes and interiors for the past seven years, and her work has also been published on House Beautiful US, Elle Decor US, Country Living, Good Housekeeping, Red, Prima, Town & Country, Elle Japan, Modern Living and Micasa Revista.
Prior to joining House Beautiful, Olivia worked at Reveal magazine, where she reported on celebrity and entertainment news by day, and attended showbiz parties and red carpet events by night!
Olivia has an MA in Journalism with an NCTJ qualification, as well as a BA in Journalism and Media & Cultural Studies.
link
