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Do you love whimsy? Florals? Soft colors and the feeling of the English countryside? If you said yes to these questions, perhaps you’re ready to embrace the cottage core design style. Cottage core incorporates that casual feeling of a little bit rustic, with a little bit polished. If you're eager to create that serene atmosphere in your home, you're in the right spot! Here are ten straightforward yet impactful ways to infuse your space with that cozy cottage feeling.
1. Embrace Soft Textiles
Soft textiles are key to making your home feel cozy. Think plush throw blankets, fluffy pillows, and textured rugs. Layer different fabrics to create depth and comfort. Materials like wool and cotton work well. For example, you could add a light wool throw over a cotton sofa. This not only enhances comfort but also adds visual interest.
2. Use Warm Color Palettes
Color influences your space's mood. Warmer earth tones, soft pastels, and muted shades can evoke a sense of coziness. Painting your walls in gentle hues like beige or soft blue can create a welcoming environment. A study found that homes with warm colors can make occupants feel more comfortable, with 70% of people preferring these colors in living areas.
3. Incorporate Natural Elements (Especially Florals)
Always bring in a floral! This can come in the form of a tiny print wallpaper, fresh flowers, artwork, or fabrics. Adding florals will help bring in the romance and natural vibes of this style. Another way would be to use natural materials like reclaimed wood, stone elements, and plants to enhance warmth and vibrancy. For instance, create a feature wall in your living room using wooden planks. Adding potted herbs in the kitchen not only beautifies the space but also provides fresh ingredients. Studies show that having plants indoors can improve mood and productivity by more than 15%.
4. Create a Reading Nook to Embrace the Cottage Core Feeling
Designate a special reading nook to enhance comfort. Choose a quiet corner, add a comfortable chair and some plush cushions. A small bookshelf brimming with your favorite novels and a warm throw blanket will complete the setup. Imagine enjoying a cup of your favorite tea as you dive into a captivating story!
5. Layer with Lighting
Lighting is crucial in setting a cozy atmosphere. Dimmers, soft lamps, and candles help create a warm glow. Avoid harsh overhead lights and instead use warm-toned light bulbs. You could also integrate fairy lights, which can increase a room's charm, especially when draped in cozy corners or around windows. This simple touch can boost perceived coziness by up to 20%.
6. Display Vintage Finds
Incorporate vintage or antique items into your decor. This could include an old wooden ladder repurposed as a bookshelf or vintage vases on windowsills. These unique pieces add character and tell a story, enhancing the cherished cottage ambiance. For example, showcasing a family heirloom in a cozy reading nook invites conversation and nostalgia.
7. Add Personal Touches That Tell a Story
Do some story telling! Cottage Core is all about the feeling of the space and the story it is telling. Add some fun elements like bunny figurines, pictures of an English countryside, or a pair of rain boots as decor. Let your space have its own story and be a setting for a great cup of tea and a good book. Making your space personal is crucial in creating a homey atmosphere. Display family photos in rustic frames or showcase handmade crafts and local art. Such unique additions generate a sense of warmth and belonging. A recent survey showed that over 80% of people feel happier in spaces filled with personal memorabilia.
8. Create a Cozy Fireplace Area
If you have a fireplace, make it the room’s focal point. Surround it with comfortable seating and decorative accessories like candles and plants. Even if you don’t have a traditional fireplace, consider an electric or decorative model that mimics the look of a genuine hearth. This can significantly enhance room comfort, attracting friends and family around it.
9. Add Something Rustic and a Little Bit of Polish
Try adding a rustic vibe. Throw in a pillow with a worn edge, hunt for an antique furniture piece, or maybe use a hand-me-down quilt to get that cozy, lived-in feel. Add a bit of shine too! Balancing the worn with some polished pieces keeps the look soft and casual. Look for those perfect silver candlesticks or a gold-framed mirror to give your space just the right touch.
10. Incorporate Functional Decor
Select decorative items that also serve a purpose. For example, a beautifully woven basket can store blankets, while a vintage trunk can double as both storage and a coffee table. These functional pieces can streamline your space while keeping the cottage charm alive.
Creating that cozy cottage feeling in your home is achievable with a few mindful changes. By implementing these ten strategies, you can transform your living space into a warm sanctuary that encourages relaxation.
Embracing the Cozy Cottage Core Feeling
Finish the look off with great fabrics, like a crocheted lace, linen, or flour sack. Keep it casual and informal to give that lived-in look that looks like you didn’t even try, it’s just naturally always been that way. The cozy cottage aesthetic emphasizes comfort, warmth, and character in your home. By integrating soft textiles, warm colors, and personal touches, you can create a space that feels inviting every day. Gather your favorite items, unleash your creativity, and enjoy turning your home into a cozy haven! And of course if you need a hand in creating this cozy style, let's book an appointment to get started.
Did you love this blog, but want more information on where to find Cottage Style Homes or additional advice from other designers and pros? We were featured in a Redfin article!
Check it out here: Cottage Style Homes: When Cozy, Quaint, and Charming Collide | Redfin
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