Bruno Pugh
British cottage style is all about creating inviting, charming spaces filled with character. With its soft colors and delightful decor, this look can transform your home into a cozy retreat. Here are ten simple ways to bring a touch of English cottage charm to your living space.
Embrace Nature with a Colorful Garden
Let’s start with the outdoors. Add some charm to your garden with beautiful flowers like gardenia, jasmine, and lavender. Their lovely colors and calming scents will enhance your space. If you have a small space, you can use pots to grow herbs like mint or basil, too.
Make a Pathway to Your Front Door
Create a welcoming path to your home using materials like stones or bricks. This special flagstone entryway should have slight twists and turns. To make it extra special, plant some shrubs along the edges and paint your gate in a complementary color for an inviting touch!
Craft a Cozy Rustic Entryway
A wooden bench for sitting and putting on shoes is a must-have for your English entryway. Opt for wrought iron hooks for coats and bags near the main door for practicality. Finally, decorate the walls with framed pictures of your family or beautiful landscapes—reminiscent of the UK countryside.
Capture Victorian Elegance on Your Exterior
Do you like those Victorian-style homes with great detailing and different hues? To create this look, start by installing architectural trim around the house, like the famous Breadcrumbs design. Paint your walls and window shutters in light, matching colors for a fresh feel.
Add Furniture And Florals to the Porch
If a bench isn’t your style, place some European wicker chairs with floral cushions on the porch. Make it even better with a soft blanket and an Indian rug. You could also have a little table for snacks or games right in front of the chairs—a perfect morning setup for a British cottage.
Showcase Exposed Beams and Wooden Details
There’s nothing like exposed timber that says, ‘Hey, it’s a craftsman-style home!’ If you can, let the wooden beams in the ceiling show—stain them dark for a cozy feel or keep them light for a fresh look. Then, bring wooden accents to the living room, like a bookshelf made from reclaimed wood.
Create a Serene Bedroom with Soft Florals
Soft bedding with flower patterns or pastel colors can create a relaxing atmosphere, and they are common in most UK cottages. You can also personalize your space with special mementos from trips or portraits. To complete the feel, install vintage furniture, such as a Welsh dresser, antique nightstand, or ladder table.
Design an Inviting Kitchen with Open Shelves
In many British cabins, you’ll find open shelves and farmhouse sinks that are deep and wide. This style showcases a beautiful basin and countertop setup. Try to fill the shelves with your favorite cookbooks and cute potted herbs that inspire old-school, earthy meals.
Retouch Bathrooms with Vintage Fixtures
A retro faucet or a classic clawfoot bathtub can beautifully create the European bathroom vibe you’re aiming for. Look for antique soap dishes and mirrors to add a thoughtful touch, especially pieces in brass or ceramic that enhance the overall charm of your design.
Curate Collectibles for a Cozy Finish
Check out local thrift stores for unique English artifacts like an old lamp or a clock. These charming finds not only enhance your British cottage aesthetic but also serve as great conversation starters. Plus, the lamps with yellow lighting give the whole house a more countryside feel.