Maché Interior’s Design Styles Series: Cottagecore

We explore the Warmth and Nostalgia of Cottagecore Interior Design

As part of our Interior Design Style Series, this week we’re delving into Cottagecore, a design aesthetic that celebrates simple living, nature, and nostalgia. Originating from rural countryside ideals, this style is all about creating a cosy, romantic, and organic environment that feels both nostalgic and timeless.

Cottagecore has gained significant popularity in recent years, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where people are sharing their love for rustic interiors, home-grown gardens, and charming handmade décor. The Cotswolds has seen a boom with everyone from The Beckhams to your favourite influencers, desperate to add a bit of country charm to their homes. The style evokes the peaceful, slower pace of life found in the countryside, where every item has a sense of purpose and beauty.

Characterised by a blend of vintage charm, floral patterns, and natural materials, it’s all about bringing the outdoors in. This design style focuses on creating welcoming, lived-in spaces where comfort takes priority over perfection.

"It’s a return to a simpler time, but with an inviting and stylish modern twist that makes it relevant in today’s interiors." - Maché Interiors

How to Create a Cottagecore Room

To embrace this style, start by looking at natural materials. Wood, wicker, linen, and wool are essential to this style. These materials should appear rustic and weathered, think antique furniture, reclaimed wood tables, and handwoven baskets. Incorporate a variety of textures to create depth and interest - soft wool throws, floral-patterned cushions, and vintage rugs all add to the cosy, lived-in feel of the space.

In terms of colour, rooms often feature soft, muted tones inspired by nature, think warm earthy shades like sage green, soft pinks, butter yellows, and pale blues. These colours evoke a sense of tranquillity and balance, allowing natural light to flood the room and making the space feel open and airy.

Floral patterns are another key element of this style, from floral wallpaper to embroidered linens. These patterns add a touch of nostalgia and romance to the space, giving it a sense of timeless beauty. Pair these with delicate porcelain or ceramic pieces to create a true “storybook” atmosphere.

How to Incorporate Cottagecore into Your Home

• Furniture: Opt for vintage-inspired, handcrafted furniture with a weathered, rustic look. Look for wooden tables, antique armchairs, and simple, sturdy pieces that offer comfort and character. Wicker and rattan accents also work well in this style, from baskets to chairs to light fixtures.

• Colours: Soft, natural tones are key - think earthy greens, dusty blues, pale yellows, and blush pinks. These colours evoke calmness and connect your indoor space with the natural world outside.

• Materials: Incorporate natural materials like wood, stone, and linen. A wooden dining table with mismatched chairs, stoneware crockery, and linen curtains will all bring that rustic, country charm to your home.

• Accessories: Decorate with vintage inspired accessories like floral patterned cushions, lace tablecloths, and antique mirrors. Embrace handmade or locally-sourced décor, such as ceramic vases, pressed flower art, or woven baskets. Plants, especially houseplants and wildflowers, are a must for creating that fresh, natural atmosphere.

Cottagecore is all about creating a space that feels inviting, warm, and full of character. It’s a design style that encourages a connection to nature and the simple pleasures in life, whether that’s sipping tea in a sun dappled room or enjoying a homemade meal with loved ones. It’s a perfect way to bring a touch of rustic charm and nostalgia into your home, creating a space that feels like a cosy countryside retreat.

Will you be adding a little countryside nostalgia in your next update?