Image a comfortable house with arched doorways, a chimney, a captivating entrance porch, and a stone or brick façade. Whether or not this home has beachfront views or is nestled within the countryside, you’ve envisioned a quaint cottage-style house. Certainly one of many in style house types, cottage-style properties have stood the check of centuries for a cause. So whether or not you’re seeking to purchase a house in Atlanta, lease a house in Chicago, or convey some cottage-core model into your house in Los Angeles, CA, there’s tons to be discovered from this quaint house model.
That will help you determine if that is the suitable model house for you, we’ll clarify what a cottage house is, its traits, execs and cons, completely different variations, and suggestions from specialists on how one can convey cottage model aesthetics into your own home. Let’s leap in.
What’s a cottage-style house?
A cottage house is a small property typically related to seashore or nation residing, mixing into nature with rustic particulars. These properties are sometimes one story, whereas some might have an extra half-story or second ground. They’re identified for his or her cozy appeal and is usually a nice choice for a wide range of homebuyers and renters.
Historical past of cottage homes
Like most of the house types on the market, cottages are steeped in historical past, courting again to the Center Ages (1400s-1500s). It’s unclear which nation they originated in, however cottage home plans have been in style in England, Norway, Finland, and Russia, amongst many different nations. The unique model was constructed with a thatched roof and wooden or stone exterior. It was sometimes a small home situated within the countryside in style with the farming neighborhood.
By the nineteenth century, the cottage-style house migrated to the U.S. These properties rapidly grew to become in style trip house types alongside the East Coast, particularly in areas like Cape Cod, MA, or Newport, RI. Since then, cottage-style homes have remained a staple beachside house and are even frequent in additional populated and metropolitan areas.
Traits of a cottage-style house
Cottage properties have some frequent exterior and inside traits that make them distinctive to their model.
Exterior options
In contrast to their English countryside counterparts, many trendy cottages don’t have a thatched roof. As an alternative, most cottages have steeply pitched gable roofs. The outside could also be shingled and have stone or brick accents. You’ll sometimes discover a broad or wraparound porch, probably a yard deck, and an arched entrance door.
Many, however not all, cottages are asymmetrical, that means the structure will not be the identical on all sides. For instance, it’s possible you’ll discover the door situated off to at least one facet of the house relatively than within the center.
Inside design
Cottage model properties embrace nature each inside and outside, so you possibly can count on to see lots of the identical pure appeal indoors. There are many cozy parts in a small area, from uncovered beams and rafters to brick or stone partitions and fireplaces. Many cottages have a extra open ground plan, that means your residing area, eating room, and kitchen are multi functional space. There are sometimes one or two bedrooms and loos. In case your cottage has a second ground, you might have an attic area or one other small bed room.
Variations of cottage properties
There are many types of cottage homes relying on the areas they’ve originated from or the model that the builder selected. Listed here are seven types to contemplate should you’re on the lookout for a cottage-style house.
English cottage
English cottages are probably the most well-known cottages, and chances are high, what you image once you think about a cottage house. They’re sometimes a single-story house with a thatched-style roof and backyard surrounding the doorway, which can creep up the house’s siding.
French cottage
These cottage properties normally have a stone exterior with climbing vines, brickwork, and clay-tiled roofs. French nation cottages typically have a fancier inside in comparison with different takes on the model.
American or coastal cottage
Chances are you’ll hear this model known as “American” or “coastal,” however they’re one and the identical in the case of cottage types. These cottages are inclined to have large entrance porches, bay home windows, picket shingles, and white trim. You’ll discover coastal cottages on each the east and west coast in areas like Cape Cod, MA, or Carmel, CA.
Canadian cottage
Canadian cottage-style properties are similar to their American counterpart in model and placement. The primary distinction is that these properties typically have a second ground.
Nordic cottage
Nordic-style cottages, typically present in Norway and Sweden, are sometimes constructed from wooden and have vivid pink exteriors that stand out towards the summer season inexperienced and winter white countryside.
South African cottage
These cottage designs are made with stucco partitions, and also you’ll discover conventional thatched roofs.
Cottage vs. bungalow: What’s the distinction?
Bungalows aren’t essentially cottages and are sometimes misidentified as so. The bungalow home model is a one-and-a-half story house with a outstanding entrance porch, gabled roof, and uncovered beams inside. Nonetheless, that doesn’t imply {that a} cottage can’t have a bungalow model.
Professionals and cons of cottage-style properties
It doesn’t matter what house you select, be it a standard rambler house or a historic Tudor-style home, there will likely be execs and cons. Right here’s what you possibly can count on from a cottage house.
Professionals of a cottage
For those who’re on the lookout for a small home or trip house, a cottage home could also be good for you. With restricted area and bedrooms, this may be nice for individuals who desire a charming home that doesn’t require an excessive amount of repairs. Cozy cottage-style properties are additionally nice for individuals who need to dwell exterior of town heart and revel in a country, natural-looking home.
Cons of a cottage
Cottage homes are sometimes, however not completely, situated in beachside or countryside cities relatively than huge cities. So should you’re on the lookout for a house within the coronary heart of New York Metropolis, it’s possible you’ll not discover a cottage there. Cottages are additionally smaller in sq. footage, in order that they might not be your best option for these on the hunt for a house with greater than two bedrooms. Additionally they have a extra rustic inside, so should you love a extra trendy and smooth house, cottages might not suit your model.
The place to seek out cottage-style homes in your space
For those who’ve determined that this quaint and charming home is best for you, Redfin may help you discover a cottage house in your space.
1. Go to Redfin.com and kind into the Search Bar both town’s title or the zip code (for instance, Monterey, CA) the place you’d like to start on the lookout for a home. Press enter.
2. Close to the highest of the subsequent web page, on the suitable facet, you will note “All filters.” Click on on that and scroll to the “Keywords” field close to the underside of the web page.
3. Kind the phrase “cottage” into the Key phrases field and press Apply Filters. That’s all. Properties inside the metropolis title or zip code you entered will populate the web page, and also you’ll be capable of start your search.
Skilled tips about bringing cottage model into your own home
For those who’ve fallen in love with the concept of residing in a cottage-style house however can’t afford to maneuver, Redfin reached out to a wealth of specialists in inside design, inside adorning, development, and extra to curate an inventory of suggestions and methods for incorporating the weather of “cottage core” into your own home. Learn on to be taught extra.
Know what you’re going for
“Cottage-style properties have a timeless appeal, mixing coziness with character in a approach that feels each welcoming and nostalgic. Typically that includes rustic parts like uncovered beams, stone fireplaces, and vintage-inspired decor, these properties provide a way of tranquility that invitations rest.
Whether or not tucked away within the countryside, nestled in a quaint coastal city, or on a lake, cottage properties evoke a way of easy, peaceable residing. The nice and cozy, inviting interiors make you need to retreat from the hustle and bustle of contemporary life and curl up with a mushy, well-worn quilt by the fireplace or exterior across the firepit whereas roasting marshmallows.” – Stacy Moher of Dwelling Interiors of Connecticut, LLC, a full-service inside adorning and design agency specializing in residential and business environments.
Embrace the quirks
“Cottage style is all about embracing the quirks! Forget about everything matching perfectly — a little mismatched furniture and some unique, handmade touches are what make a cottage feel like home. A slightly wonky shelf or a vintage find with a bit of character? That just adds to the charm. And when it comes to materials, think natural all the way. Wood, stone, linen… they’re your best friends for creating that warm, cozy vibe. Exposed beams, woven rugs, simple wood furniture – that’s the stuff that makes a cottage feel so inviting and down-to-earth” – Kevin with Newroom.io, an AI-powered inside design device for owners and professionals.
Usher in some greenery
“The great thing about the cottagecore design scheme is, it doesn’t have to break the bank! Want to transition your home to a cottage core aesthetic? Start by bringing in greenery, dried flowers, vintage finds, and books. These elements can be sourced inexpensively through flea markets, resale shops, and estate sales.” – Holly Jones of Branson Upstaging, a house staging and design firm in Hollister, MO.
Add a picket accent wall
“A simple and budget-friendly way to create a cottage feel inside your home is to add a wooden accent wall. You can use reclaimed or aged wood for extra charm. We like to vary the plank width, color, or wood type to add visual interest. Look for wood planks that are at various stages of finish to add texture. For example, add planks which are rough cut or with mill marks for an old style cottage look.” – PDX HomeWorks, a reworking contractor in Portland, Oregon.
Prioritize easy and comfy
“Cottage style interiors are all about creating simple, cozy spaces that have a sense of nostalgia and rustic charm about them. Think carefully curated, vintage furniture and fabrics, combined with soft, pastel color palettes, and natural materials. It’s a great style to achieve on a tight budget as it’s about creating a lived-in look and is well suited to pre-loved pieces and mismatched items. Choose natural materials such as wood, linen, wool, and wicker baskets to add warmth and texture and combine with nature-inspired elements such as floral prints, fresh flowers and potted plants. Layer in table lamps with soft, warm blubs to create a cozy aesthetic and complete the look.” – Kim Heslip, an inside designer with Nest and Flourish Interiors.
Mix vintage furnishings with trendy comforts
“Cottage model is about embracing the great thing about imperfections, making an area really feel effortlessly cozy and lived-in. Probably the most inexpensive solution to obtain cottage model is by mixing vintage or thrifted furnishings with trendy comforts for a timeless really feel. Textures additionally play a key function within the cottage aesthetic, so including beadboard, shiplap, or board and batten to partitions and ceilings will immediately add appeal and character.
One other solution to incorporate cottage model is to layer patterns akin to florals, stripes, and ginghams. To make sure patterns don’t conflict, give attention to one large-scale sample and blend in smaller patterns with complementary colours. At its coronary heart, cottage model celebrates imperfection and lived-in magnificence, so don’t be afraid to attempt one thing new!” – Caitlin De Lay, a house and DIY blogger.
Maximize storage and performance with out dropping the aesthetic
“Eastbank Interiors, Inc. has been within the Portland space for the previous 4 a long time. Designing cupboards for our market offers us numerous alternatives to reinforce charming cottage-style properties with our distinctive customized cupboard picks. Since these properties are sometimes smaller, we embrace the problem of maximizing storage and performance, taking advantage of each nook with good pull-out options.
Cottage-style properties additionally are inclined to have a unusual, eclectic appeal, permitting us to get inventive with colours, textures, and a mixture of supplies that improve their cozy, inviting ambiance — the very essence of cottage residing.
With trendy design flexibility and progressive home equipment, we will seamlessly mix modern comfort with timeless cottage aesthetics, creating kitchens that really feel each up to date and completely in tune with the house’s distinctive character.” – Hagar Azoulay of Eastbank Interiors, an organization in Portland, OR, providing kitchen and bathtub design, customized cabinetry, counter tops, and transforming companies.
Embellish with florals and botanicals
“To bring the cottagecore aesthetic into your home, think patterns of florals, vintage botanicals, and delicate nature-inspired prints. Hanging wall art with soft watercolor landscapes or pressed flower illustrations adds an old-world charm that feels timeless and cozy. Layer in a textured throw blanket in muted earth tones to enhance the warmth and create a space that feels both inviting and cozy.” – Tina Sperrazza of Durazza, a supplier of premium puzzles and eco-conscious house decor.
Layer pure textures
“To create a true ‘cottage core’ aesthetic, focus on layering natural textures like linen drapes, woven baskets, and vintage-inspired table linens. Soft, muted color palettes — think warm whites, sage greens, and dusty rose — help enhance the cozy, lived-in charm that defines cottage style.” – All Cotton and Linen, a web based boutique for 100% pure and natural cotton textiles.
Hold it easy, supply regionally, and be boldly you
“’Cottage Core’ brings each the tranquil ambiance and individualistic model that all of us want shifting into 2025. 3 ways to convey this model and power into your area:
Simplicity: ‘The Cottage’ is about practicality and luxury, much less is actually extra.
Supply regionally: Within the metropolis, nation or waterfront, supply your supplies and decor out of your context or local people for geographic distinction.
Be boldly you: Fill your area with issues that convey you consolation and happiness, in spite of everything, that is your cottage, get pleasure from residing in it!”
– SOGO Spec, an structure and inside design agency in Atlanta, GA.
Mix pure supplies with mushy hues
“To evoke a true cottage core aesthetic, blend natural, weathered materials like reclaimed wood and stone with soft, pastel hues and cozy textiles. This mix not only highlights the home’s vintage charm but also creates an inviting space that feels both timeless and modern.”
Abdus Saboor Danish of Archova Visuals, an organization providing 3D architectural visualization and rendering companies.
Make the most of a nature-inspired shade palette
“Cozy cottage-style interiors embrace a soothing, nature-inspired color palette that feels effortlessly inviting. Soft whites, creamy beiges, and dreamy pastels like blush pink, sage green, and powder blue create a light, airy ambiance reminiscent of a sunlit meadow. Earthy tones — think warm taupe, terracotta, and misty grays — add depth and a touch of rustic charm, evoking the coziness of a countryside retreat. Delicate florals, classic ginghams, and subtle plaids weave these hues together, infusing spaces with a timeless, nostalgic warmth.” – Sally Bunting, a up to date artist primarily based in Charleston, SC.
Embrace pure parts in all facets of your own home
“Cottage core model is extra than simply an aesthetic, it’s also a sense like a heat hug from your own home. One tip to realize that feeling is to embrace stunning, pure parts in not simply the decor of your own home but in addition the utility objects.
The objects we convey into our properties might be each practical AND stunning. So commerce that plastic pot scrubber for a pure bristle brush, layer it on a classic saucer, and decant your dish cleaning soap into an amber bottle to make dishwashing and your kitchen just a bit extra cottage core.” – Angie’s Roost, a house renovation weblog.
Use female model within the house
“Cottage core is more of a feminine style that embraces a cozy and comfortable, unfussy style. It borrows a lot of elements from English countryside homes that are a bit more rustic. To bring it into the home, use floral feminine patterns in fabrics, patterned wallpaper, vintage/thrifted decor, muted colors like pale blues and greens and buttery yellows and beiges.” – Cristina Lehman of C.Lehman Dwelling, a digital inside design studio serving shoppers nationwide.
Incorporate florals, rustic touches, polish, storytelling, and nice materials
“Do you like whimsy? Florals? Tender colours and the sensation of the English countryside? For those who mentioned sure to those questions, maybe you’re able to embrace the cottage core design model. Cottage core incorporates that informal feeling of a bit of bit rustic, with a bit of bit polished. Listed here are some tricks to convey this model to your own home.
All the time usher in a floral! This may come within the type of a tiny print wallpaper, recent flowers, paintings, or materials. Including florals will assist convey within the romance and pure vibes of this model.
Search for including a bit of little bit of a country contact. Including a pillow with a worn/ frayed edge, on the lookout for an vintage furnishings piece, or perhaps a hand-me-down quilt, is an ideal approach so as to add in that mushy feeling of not too good.
Add a bit of polish! Conserving the suitable steadiness of worn and polished helps give this look that mushy and never too formal feeling. Discovering these good silver candlesticks or a gold framed mirror so as to add to your area will add the right contact.
Do some story telling! Cottage Core is all concerning the feeling of the area and the story it’s telling. Add some enjoyable parts like bunny collectible figurines, footage of an English countryside, or a pair of rain boots as decor. Let your area have its personal story and be a setting for an excellent cup of tea and a very good e-book.
End the look off with nice materials, like a crocheted lace, linen, or flour sack. Hold it informal and casual to present that lived-in look that appears such as you didn’t even attempt, it’s simply naturally at all times been that approach.”
– Heather West of Designs by Heather LLC, an inside design agency within the Jacksonville space.
Attempt mixing cottage appeal with a boho vibe
“I like mixing cozy cottage appeal with a laid-back boho vibe. Cottage model doesn’t need to be all frills and florals – why not shake it up with earthy textures, classic finds, loads of greenery, and picked up items out of your travels that make it yours? Suppose rattan lighting, Moroccan pouffes, and handcrafted baskets for heat and depth. A nature-inspired palette of sage greens, mushy whites, and heat terracottas retains issues recent, whereas layered textiles and significant accents add that easy, lived-in really feel.
The very best half? There aren’t any guidelines. Have enjoyable with it, incorporate items that convey you pleasure, and create a house that actually feels such as you.” – Kelly Moorcroft of Areas by Kelly, a Manchester-based residential inside design studio
Deal with storage as ornament
“If your home isn’t a true cottage, fear not; cottage-style home aesthetics pair well with craftsman, colonial, Tudor, or even Cape Cod homes. One tip for styling, particularly in kitchens, is to treat storage as decoration. Hanging racks of pots and pans can fill visual space, while exposed storage or glass-paneled cabinetry show off stacks of colorful stoneware or dry goods stored in glass jars.” – Bailey Shelton, Affiliate Editor of Haven Journal, an area publication about all issues design and development.
Previous parts, impartial colours and sage greens
“Work with vintage elements that feel a little more old world. Even as simple as a vintage vase or vintage pillows brings a cottage feel into your home. For colors, neutrals and even different shades of sage greens feel right.” – Eddie Mickenberg of Eddie Mickenberg Inside Design, an inside design studio primarily based in Los Angeles, CA.
Acquire, don’t coordinate
“Use collected, not coordinated, decor by mixing antique or handmade pieces with well-worn furniture to give your cottage a sense of history and charm. A mix of heirloom finds, vintage lighting, and hand-thrown pottery will make the space feel personal and effortlessly cozy rather than overly styled.” – John of Fancy Home Design, a web based inside design platform.
Romanticize your life by decor decisions
“If you’re enamored with antiques, candlelit dinners, and comfy shade schemes, then incorporating parts of a cottage-style house into your way of life is simpler than you suppose. Embracing the ‘Cottagecore’ model means romanticizing your life by distinctive decor decisions, akin to antiques, that inform a narrative. Classic items akin to patinaed walnut dressers donned with centuries-old books stacked with brass candlesticks are some easy methods to model a bed room.
Simplicity is essential. Centuries in the past within the English and French countryside, folks handcrafted issues out of wooden, metals akin to brass and iron, and pure dyes that have been utilized in paints and materials. Earth tones akin to ochre, lotions, deep reds, muted blues, and darkish greens are in style Cottagecore colours that may be introduced in by wall paint, floral block print mattress linens and wallpapers, and pure linen window coverings.” – Darcy Oliver with Darcy Oliver Design, an inside designer, author, and occasion planner primarily based in San Diego, CA.
Mix cozy conventional interiors with modern sensibilities
“Blending the charm of rustic living with the sleek, purposeful vibes of modern design, Modern Cottagecore is taking the world by storm. This trend merges cozy traditional interiors with contemporary sensibilities, bringing artisan craftsmanship and modern tailoring together under one roof. Whether you’re a seasoned home decorator or just beginning to refine your space, Modern Cottagecore offers a refreshing, personal, and sustainable style that fits every home.” – LetsRenovate.com, a house enchancment journal and transforming information.
Strike a steadiness between eclectic and stylish
The important thing aspect of English cottage house decor is to realize the steadiness between eclecticism and magnificence. When you obtain this good concord, any room will give a heat welcome to anybody coming in, and on the similar time will radiate magnificence with ease. The English cottage house decor model is beloved for its timeless magnificence and comfy appeal. By combining a mushy color palette with antiques, you possibly can create an area that feels inviting and refined, like a scene from a basic novel or a portray by a grasp artist.” – Lizzet Frausto, a web based boutique for house decor.
Pure supplies, muted colours, and vegetation
“Use natural materials like wood, linen, and wool to create warmth and texture. Decorate with vintage furniture, floral prints, and cozy accents like knitted blankets and lace curtains. Incorporate plants, dried flowers, and soft, ambient lighting for a serene, old-world charm. Stick to muted, earthy tones like sage green, warm beige, and soft pastels to enhance the cozy atmosphere.” – DreamDen Ai, a house and inside design AI and market.
Greenery, private touches, muted colours, and rustic vibes.
“Are you seeking to improve the cottage core vibe? To make your own home good, cozy, and cottage-style, attempt the next methods:
Add wooden, wicker, or classic floral decorations to incorporate rustic appeal.
Don’t be frightened of utilizing muted colours. These might embrace sage inexperienced, mild pink, or buttery yellow. They are going to assist to create an inviting and heat look.
Use private touches! Handmade objects may help right here: knitted throws or ceramic mugs will make your house tremendous cozy.
Including greenery at all times helps: it’ll assist foster a connection to nature.
With all these little however vital touches, your area can really feel like a heat and welcoming oasis.” – the group at Genense, a 3D visualization and rendering studio.
Classic books, wooden fixtures, and extra
“To create a charming cottage-style home, incorporate wicker accents, peg racks, and baskets for a cozy, lived-in feel. Decorative plates and floral ceramics add vintage charm, while quilts and embroidered linens bring warmth and texture. Opt for pine furniture and terracotta pieces to enhance the rustic appeal. Finish the look with vintage cookbooks and farm animal décor for a touch of nostalgia.” – Isabelle de Braux of Soho, an AI-powered actual property platform.
Illuminate your cottage house with cozy and heat lighting
“A cottage-style house exudes heat, nostalgia, and timeless magnificence. With its gabled roof, arched doorways, and stone accents, the suitable lighting can improve these options whereas creating an inviting ambiance. Right here’s how one can illuminate your cottage house to focus on its charming architectural parts.
Emphasizing the gabled roof — A defining characteristic of many cottages, the gabled roof might be enhanced with considerate lighting.
Uplighting: Inserting ground-level uplights on the base of the house casts a dramatic glow upward, drawing consideration to the gabled silhouette at evening.
Ridge lighting: Refined LED strip lights alongside the roofline can intensify the angles and add depth.
Pendant or hanging lanterns: In case your gable extends over an entryway or porch, contemplate a country lantern or pendant mild to reinforce the house’s fairytale attraction.
Highlighting arched doorways — Arched doorways evoke an old-world appeal, and the suitable lighting ensures they continue to be a focus.
Wall sconces: Inserting symmetrical sconces on both facet of an arched doorway supplies a balanced glow whereas emphasizing the curve.
Recessed lighting: In case your archway is deeply set, refined recessed lighting can add a mushy illumination with out overpowering the characteristic.
Pathway lights: Low-level pathway lights main as much as the arched entrance can create a heat, inviting ambiance.
Accentuating a stone chimney — A stone chimney serves as each a practical and aesthetic aspect of a cottage house.
Spotlighting: A well-placed highlight on the base of the chimney can create a putting visible at evening, bringing out the wealthy textures of the stone.
Wall-mounted lanterns: If the chimney extends alongside the house’s exterior, contemplate rustic lanterns mounted close by to enhance its earthy tones.
Firelight glow: If the chimney is operational, the flickering glow of a hearth indoors naturally enhances the skin construction’s appeal.
Showcasing atone accents — Stonework provides rustic magnificence to a cottage, and lighting can improve its depth and texture.
Grazing lights: Putting in lights near the stone floor at an angle creates dramatic shadows and highlights the rugged texture.
Heat LEDs: Select warm-toned bulbs (2700K-3000K) to keep up the pure, cozy really feel of stone parts.
Underneath-lit options: If stone is used on pathways or partitions, contemplate under-lighting these areas for a mushy and refined glow.
Creating a comfortable outside ambiance — The outside of a cottage house ought to really feel simply as inviting as the inside.
String lights: Draping string lights alongside a porch or pergola enhances the whimsical appeal.
Lantern-style fixtures: Conventional cottage aesthetics pair nicely with lantern-style lighting, whether or not for porches, patios, or backyard paths.
Photo voltaic path lights: Lining walkways with mushy solar-powered lights ensures a magical nighttime attraction whereas being energy-efficient.
Closing ideas
Lighting a cottage-style house requires a steadiness between perform and aesthetics. By specializing in your own home’s standout options — gabled roofs, arched doorways, stone chimneys, and stone accents—you possibly can create a heat, inviting ambiance that enhances its storybook appeal. Whether or not by dramatic uplighting, rustic lanterns, or refined recessed fixtures, the suitable lighting will convey your cottage to life, day or evening.”
– Steve Gogatz of Revolutionary Gentle Designs, a lighting firm providing architectural outside lighting for properties and business buildings.
